Choose a subject that is close to a wall and place the fixture out of sight behind the subject. Flood beam spreads work best.

The closer the light fixture to the subject, the larger the shadow. General-purpose lamps create a better effect.

Use with smaller ornamental trees to cast light around the base or through the tree with the fixture. Add a pale blue or mercury vapor lens to create a moonlight effect.

Consider placing fixtures under built-in benches for a clean, inconspicuous look. All changes in elevation in the landscape such as steps or terraces should be illuminated for safety.

Use in open area where plant growth will not interfere with light distribution. Avoid the runway look by staggering spacing.

Try grazing on brick or stone walls. It is not effective on siding, due to the shadows caused by the siding not being a flat surface. Wide floods work best. Fixtures should be placed 6-8" from wall, aimed straight up.

  More Lighting Techniques

 SPOT LIGHTING

Interesting features, architecture and statuary can be showcased at night with a focused beam of light.  Use different wattages and beam spreads.

 SILHOUETTING

A great way to highlight trees and plants with interesting branch structure.  Placing a fixture directly behind the subject and pointing it at a vertical surface displays a dark outline of the subject to the foreground observer.  This technique accents the shape of an object, but not the color or texture.

SHADOWING

This is another way to highlight interesting shapes and branch structure.  Place a fixture directly in front of the subject and aim the light through it to cast a shadow on a vertical surface.  To enlarge the shadow, position the luminaire closer to the subject.  This type of lighting also adds security to a home or business.

SIGN LIGHTING

Well-placed flood lights keep signs working after dark.  Optics should be selected to complement the orientation of the sign: horizontal flood optics are ideal for lighting across a wide object, while vertical optics better illuminate tall objects.

FOUNTAIN LIGHTING

Underwater illumination amplifies the dramatic effect of fountains, adding visual warmth and interest to parks, town squares and shopping centers.  To use the water as a mirror, light the area behind the reflecting surface.  Also, add colored lenses for dramatic effect.

POND LIGHTING

Unlock the natural beauty of a pond or water garden after sundown by highlighting with underwater fixtures.  In addition to extending the charm of the feature after dark, pond lighting gives you the option of using color lenses for different atmospheric effects.

GRAZING

An ideal approach to bring out the textured beauty of stone or brick retaining walls, privacy fences, chimneys, and other interesting masonry.  Achieved by positioning a luminaire within six to eight inches of a facade and aiming it 90ø vertically.

DOWNLIGHTING

The common technique of mounting lights high in trees to broadcast over a wide area.  This type of installation creates general ambient light for backyard entertaining and also illuminates for safety and security.  Downlighting fixtures can also be installed under eaves of a structure to highlight architectural detail.

MOON LIGHTING

Concealing a fixture in a tree and aiming it downward creates the tranquil effect of light filtering through the branches on a moonlit night.  Moon lighting fixtures should be hidden and positioned as high as possible.  For a complementary effect, a luminaire may be installed on the ground and pointed upward to illuminate the tree itself.

UPLIGHTING

An excellent way to highlight the beauty of trees and architectural design.  Repeating patterns in architecture (including windows, archways, etc.) and flowering trees come alive with the proper uplighting treatment.

WALKWAY LIGHTING

Used primarily to create a symmetrical pattern of light for navigation.  Fully shielded fixtures may be positioned along landscape cutouts and pathways to add safety, security and visibility at night.  Partially shielded lights may be positioned behind taller greenery; this allows light to filter through onto paths and distributes more illumination throughout the landscape.

SPREAD LIGHTING

The technique of low-level, evenly dispersed illumination for flowers, shrubs and other types of ground cover.  Fully shielded luminaires work best to reduce glare.  However, partially shielded fixtures may be positioned in deeper foliage landscapes where the additional light will serve to backlight greenery.  Spread lighting may also be used underwater to illuminate an ornamental pond.

STEP LIGHTING

Using light to accent steps pays dividends in beauty and safety, allowing visitors to navigate with ease.  Fixtures can be recessed into step risers, underneath railings, and as surface lights on vertical posts.

DECK LIGHTING

Another way to enhance safety and accent design.  Spotlight changes in elevation, deck edges, and drop-offs.  Fixtures can be concealed beneath benches, underneath railings, and as surface lights on vertical posts.

SECURITY LIGHTING

Eliminating dark areas where intruders can hide is an effective crime deterrent.  Security lighting can be created without harsh glare by installing low-level lighting or accent lighting in and around the landscape of a home or business.  The right combination will improve both appearance and security.

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