A Diorama (with a capital "D") is one of the most enjoyable, yet challenging forms of modelling. It combines the disciplines of the figurine and vehicle modelling and joins these together with scenic elements. There are also the considerations of additional accessories and the care required to achieve an attractive and suitable base with frame. Like a long journey, it sometimes seems difficult to imagine the end, but looking back we are rewarded by the memories. I thought rhat as opposed to the traditional diorama presentation, that this time I'd "gloss over" the actual construction phases and focus more on some hints, tips and ideas, as far as diorama construction is concerned. The first "mistake" most people make when starting out on the trail of diorama building, is to think too BIG (myself included)! It's much easier to start small and build up, as well as being able to learn from your mistakes as you progress. Like the disciplines of figure and vehicle building, good tools are also required. Trying to get by with cheap tools just won't do. Cheap tools = cheap results. Use the best you can afford. There are good references for those who wish to build dioramas, the real "bible" being; "How to Build Dioramas", by Shep Paine. There are also the "Super Diorama" book by Verlinden and the Tamiya diorama book in Japanese. In addition, the "Steel Masters" magazine and the "Military Modelling Manual", from Japan, are all very interesting for the itinerant diorama builder.
