There are two types of lightmaps that The Movies uses to cast shadows on objects. Lightmaps are image files, just like textures or overlays. Each pixel in a lightmap indicates how bright, and with what shade of colour, some area on an object should be lit.

All lightmap filenames contain the base name of the set, as well as a single digit that specifies the lighting variation. All sets and facilities have at least four different lighting variations. Sets typically have at least seven. The first four lighting variations, numbered 0 through 3, are used in tycoon mode for buildings placed on the studio lot (one for each compass position when you rotate a building). The remaining lighting variations, beginning at the number 4, are attached to the lighting slider in Advanced Movie Maker.

Lightmaps that cast shadows on actors and props follow these rules:

• Filenames follow the pattern: lf#_setname.dds.
• The lightmap image follows the floor of the set.
• Objects are lit as though a giant spotlight is shining directly down on the set from above.

Lightmaps that cast shadows on the walls, floors, and other static objects that make up a set follow these rules:

• Filenames follow the pattern: lm_setname_#.dds.
• Every surface of the set is represented by some small rectangular piece of the overall lightmap image.