In the last few decades, outdoor lighting has made quantum leaps forward in utility, cost, and energy efficiency.

Although some people may argue that outdoor lighting is not nearly as important as indoor lighting, there are others who differ from that view and maintain it is every bit as important in its own way.

Regardless, there is little disagreement that illuminating the outside spaces that are in close proximity to our living areas provide additional levels of security, safety, and visual orientation. Perhaps one of the most important but least obvious benefits is the warmth and ambiance that outdoor lighting provides its users.

Outdoor lighting is essentially any type of light that is used to illuminate outdoors areas, such as flower and shrub gardens, trees, pathways, sidewalks, driveways, swimming pools, spas, fountains, buildings and structures, patios, balconies, decks, porches, and so forth.

Because there are so many things that can be lighted outdoors, there are a number of lighting techniques that are commonly used today. Following is a list of some of the more widely used lighting techniques.

Spotlighting. This lighting technique uses a spotlight to shine a light on architectural features. It's important to place the light in a position that shines fully on the focal point and minimizes glare and wash-out effect.

Silhouetting. Another very popular lighting method used widely around the world. Silhouetting puts the light fixtures behind the featured object to bring out the backlit shape of the object rather than the exact color and texture.

Moonlighting. No, this is not working a second job in your spare time. This type of moonlighting is a technique where a fixture is put on a tree or shrub, and then aimed down to create a gentle moonlight type of effect.

Shadowing. Shadowing is a technique that involves shining a light directly in front of a featured object such as a tree or shrub, creating an eye-pleasing shadow and light effect.

Other popular outdoor lighting methods include:

Deck Lighting, Grazing, Wash Lighting, Step Lighting, Path Lighting, Fountain Lighting, Pond Lighting, and Sign Lighting.

Keep in mind that because outdoor lights are constantly exposed to the elements, it is important to choose the right type of lighting fixtures for your particular applications. For example, path lights would not be appropriate fixtures for spotlighting or for pond lighting, nor would spotlights work well for lighting your walkways.

For those Do-it-Yourselfers who are inclined to exercise their creative lighting talents, there are a large number of options to choose from.

Some of the more popular lighting options include:

low voltage lights, flood lights, solar lights, recessed lights, string lights, lanterns, and even pagoda style lights.