Basic Options Object Shape the basic shape to be rendered. Right now only the sphere and plane are available. Object Color the intrinsic color of the object before the lights are applied. Unless you are using Textures , the default is white, and it shouldn't be necessary to adjust this often, let the lights do the 'work'. When using Textures the Object Color and Advanced options are disabled.
Textures are 'predefined'.
Background The background type may be either a Sky Sphere, or a Plane. Lights do not cause shadows on a Sky Sphere. Sky Spheres may be set to either a color, or a limited number of Textures. The Plane background is a flat surface immediately behind the shape. Lights will cast shadows on the background.