It’s one thing to simply install a light fixture, but it takes a little knowledge of good techniques for garden lighting to really set your yard apart. Push yourself beyond the expected  path lights or lanterns and add a little drama by trying out one or a combination of these garden lighting techniques:

Spotlighting
Also called accent lighting, spotlighting involves intense, focused light trained at one surface, such as a statue, a tree or a garden trellis or wall of ivy. Spotlighting adds drama, but if overused, can create too much contrast in your garden lighting scheme.

Cross Lighting
By lighting an object from two or more sides, you can emphasize its three-dimensionality against the landscape. A statue, fountain or particularly beautiful tree are all good candidates for cross lighting.

Uplighting
By positioning a fixture at the base of a tree, you can illuminate its canopy by using the uplighting technique. This garden lighting strategy also works against a trellis, statue or any other special surface or object. The effect is dramatic and if not used properly, may look ominous.

Downlighting
A fixture is mounted in a tree or on the edge of a building and directed downwards, casting a wide pool of light. A security fixture, such as flood lighting, qualifies as a downlight, but this technique can also be used to highlight special features within in your garden.

Backlighting
Also called silhouetting, light is aimed at an object from behind so you appreciate its outline or silhouette, with soft light spilling from behind. Statues and trees are the best candidates for this treatment.

Shadowing
The opposite of backlighting, this technique involves lighting an object such as a statue or bush from the front, causing it to cast a dramatic shadow on the surface behind.

Grazing
This technique, also called washing, highlights textured surfaces, such as tree bark or a brick or stucco wall that provides the backdrop for your garden. The fixture “grazes” the surface, exaggerating cracks and crevices.

Moon Lighting
Install a low voltage fixture high in a tree or use a special lens to diffuse the light. This technique emulates natural moon light, creating soft shadows and patterns on the ground below as it filters through the branches.

While it’s not necessary to memorize the name of every garden lighting technique, hopefully these concepts will inspire you to try out a few creative lighting effects in your own garden.