Advice? Wizard (WIP) (C+C)

[I_am_secretly_a_cat]

I've pixel arted a few times in my life, but this is the first proper try and making something.
I'm trying to create a busy 'wizard's study' background, but it's not coming out like it is in my head. I guess I'll just add more shelves and magical shizzle.

Also, I feel like my shading is pretty shabby, but I wouldn't know how to go about doing highlights and shadows without ruining it, or taking a very long time to figure out where they should be... Is this normal for a beginner? or is there a technique?

I haven't done the wooden background or flooring yet, it's still a WIP. I would gladly take advice on how to go about doing that effectively too if anyone has time.

[PypeBros]

he needs much more contrast to stand out against the background.

[I_am_secretly_a_cat]

Contrast by changing his colour? Or by giving his darker shadows and highlights?

[Letmethink]

I feel that the light needs a bit of work, I would have thought it would be more like this (quick edit)
I also played with the shadows a bit and made the man stand out more from the background.

[I_am_secretly_a_cat]

Great thankyou! The wizard looks a lot better with those colours.

And the lighting works well too, I don't know why I put a cold light in a warm room...

Here's my attempt at the lighting and some minor improvements. It's still a WIP.