Lighting, whether indoor or outdoor, is typically classified as ambient, task, or accent lighting. Ambient, or what is commonly referred to as general, lighting illuminates a large area. Task lighting provides light that is concentrated in a small area for a specific purpose, and accent lighting directs your eye to an element of decoration, highlighting the element and imposing a more dramatic scene. Depending on what you want to achieve with your outdoor lighting, you might incorporate one or all of the above kinds of lighting by using various lighting techniques.
Outdoor lighting illuminates social gatherings, comforts us with additional safety and security, enables us to work or play, and enhances our home garden aesthetics from dusk to dawn. With the variety of outdoor lighting fixtures available, selecting the right one can be somewhat daunting. Understanding the available outdoor lighting technologies, techniques, and fixtures will allow you to make better use of your property after the sun goes down.