Being new at this I hesitate in advice, but let’s have a go at a couple of observations:
First, I say set the seams on most pieces, as it’s the most natural procedure and lends itself easier to the iron.
Second, interlocking seams (unnatural pressings) are great and at times essential to a good block and or quilt.
Third, the idea that pressing towards the dark seem strange now (limited experience remember) to me since you still end up light on light when doing so ( I can’t imagine a material so flimsy I could see through it in the end).
Pressing is a fussy issue at best, huh?