We all have certain things about our property that we like best. I love the brick finish of my home, while my mom loves the different outdoor living spaces in her backyard. And for many people, it’s their landscaping, namely their trees.
Tree lighting is a key component of outdoor lighting design. Lighting some statement trees can add depth and interest to the overall design. There are three main tree lighting techniques that we apply frequently: spotlighting, moonlighting and shadowing.
Spotlighting is the most obvious tree lighting technique. It’s best used for statement trees on the property. The tree itself is gorgeous, but it would fade into darkness when the sun went down. To appreciate it all day and night and to invite the eye further into the yard, Outdoor Lighting Perspectives used spotlighting to highlight the tree.
With spotlighting, fixtures are installed at the base of the tree and are pointed up towards it. By having the lights at ground level, the light is able to illuminate the trunk and many of the tree branches.
Moonlighting is a much more subtle tree lighting technique. As the name suggests, the goal with moonlighting is to mirror the effect of light from the moon. The fixtures are installed high in the branches of the trees positioned downward. The light isn’t as strong down the trunk of the tree and casts lovely shadows on the ground. Moonlighting is a great technique to use in cozy outdoor living areas and gardens.
Shadowing is the last tree lighting technique. It is about the tree, but also about the shadow that the tree creates. Shadowing is often utilized when the tree is in front of a wall or home and it adds depth and texture. The outdoor lighting fixtures are placed in front of the tree and are cast at an angle to place the shadow in the desired spot.
When working with your outdoor lighting company, make sure to point out any tree that you love that you would like to light. They’ll work with you to highlight the tree in just the right way.
If you have any questions, please contact your local Outdoor Lighting Perspectives.