SILHOUETTING

Essentially the same technique as backlighting, silhouetting illuminates the shape of an object from a posterior position. This technique requires a canvas or a backdrop on which the shadow can appear. Silhouetting beautifully mimics nature and maximizes the depth of the viewing scene. The view point of the light on an object can significantly change the scenery.

UPLIGHTING

Uplighting is the most commonly used technique by landscape professionals to illuminate trees, sculptures, walls, waterfalls, fountains and many other ancient pieces. These landscape lighting fixtures are ground-mounted and directed upward and away from the viewer to prevent glare. Fixtures can be easily adjusted horizontally and vertically by a landscape lighting professional or homeowner to add a dramatic effect to any part of the landscape.

MIRROR IMAGING

Uses still water as a mirror to reflect architectural or natural artistry found in the landscape. This landscape lighting technique distills depth and vertical impressions onto water's palette and illuminates the surrounding environment. Most professionals prefer dark canvases to better reflect a lighted setting, as water features can interfere with focal point's reflection. By illuminating a decorative piece such as foliage or architectural elements, your mirror imaging effect can continue to draw the eye and wow a crowd after the sun sets.

PATHLIGHTING

The principal purpose of pathlighting is to spread light across walkways, paths and entrances to promote the safe and efficient movement of foot traffic. When used selectively and strategically, it is a great way to add decorative accents to a landscape. To achieve this landscape lighting effect, fixtures can be installed at a path level or on an elevated surface such as a tree or patio to cast down light from above.

GRAZING

If depth of texture is what your client desires, then grazing is the technique of choice. Light is strategically placed to shine across surfaces such as tree bark, stucco or brick walls to create visual tension from contrasting shadows. Grazing techniques create contrast and can accentuate the unique rhythms of cracks and scallops, or hide unattractive imperfections.

MOONLIGHTING

This landscape lighting technique adds a soft blanket of light with a smooth and even illumination to enhance the ambiance of any setting. Moonlighting–as the name implies– creates a visual effect on the landscape similar to that of a full moon´s natural light. Lights are mounted high in trees and aimed back though the branches to create a dispersion of light and shadows across the scenery.