Techniques

There are a variety of lighting techniques that in combination create a beautiful and secure environment for anyone. For each technique there are fixtures that work better than others. Here are some techniques and the fixtures that best create the desired effects.

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.

Fixtures:
MVS MR16 Uplight, RS uplight, IUL516-H inground, FC Inground

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.

Fixtures:
WAC 5121 Mini-Floodlight, RL20, PB-3LED, MP Uplight

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 all over branches or foliage is light, fixtures can be placed under the tree close to the trunk. To create a subtle moonlight effect, use a cool white (5000K-5700K) LED lamp.

Fixtures:
MVS MR16 Uplight, Moon Visions LED Uplights, RS LED uplights,

Tree Downlighting

Downlighting from within the tree. Use with up to 60+ ft trees to cast light around the base or through the tree with the fixture. For a soft moonlight effect, use a cool white (5000K-5700K) LED lamp. Also add a pale green and/or diffused lens for best moonlight simulation.

Fixtures:
Moon Visions LED Downlights, MVS MR16 Downlight, BL5016

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.

Fixtures:
MM LED, LM or CP recessed LEDs, LF-1LED ledge light

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. Usual rule of thumb is 10-12’ apart.

Fixtures:
DL20-LED, SP20-LED, TM-LED, WAC 6061-LED
**These are just some of our favorites. Please refer to our low voltage path lights in our on-line catalog for more options.**

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.

Fixtures:
MVS MR16, Moon Visions LED Uplights, RS-LED, FC Inground, RP Inground