At a retreat I just went to one of the irons was a very light weight - seems like it was a Singer, but didn't know they made irons. The difference in weight between the irons on the different stations was huge. When I replace the one I have it will be with a lighter one.
I have a floor lamp behind me - behind my right shoulder - it shines on my work area without shadows. It's a cheapo from Walmart, but works for me.