Techniques

Silhouetting

Displays a dark image of the subject by lighting a vertical surface directly behind the subject. Effective to show shape but does not show the color or texture of subject. Choose a subject that is close to a wall and place the fixture out of sight behind the subject. Flood beam spreads work best.

Shadowing

Creates a shadow on a vertical surface by placing the fixture directly in front of the subject. The closer the light fixture to the subject, the larger the shadow. General-purpose lamps create a better effect.

Tree Uplighting

Up lighting from base of tree. If flowers are on the outside of the canopy or foliage is dense, fixtures must be placed outside of the drip line. If flowers are allover branches or foliage is light, fixtures can be placed under the tree close to the trunk. The addition of a pale blue or mercury vapor lens to Halogen lamps adds a subtle moonlight color to the trees, or use a Cool White LED lamp.

Tree Downlighting

Downlighting from within the tree. 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 to Halogen lamps, or use a Cool White LED lamp.

Step and Deck

Lights high traffic areas. Run cables along or under the existing structure to reduce clutter. Consider placing fixtures under built-in benches for a clean look. All changes in elevation in the landscape such as steps or terraces should be illuminated for safety.

Pathlighting

Creates a symmetrical pattern of light for illuminating walkways & steps. Use in open area where plant growth will not interfere with light distribution. Avoid the runway look by staggering spacing.

Grazing

Enhances texture of a vertical surface by placing a fixture directly against the surface and aiming the beam directly up or down. 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.