What Type of Outdoor Lighting is Best?

Outdoor Lighting on modern house with palm trees in the evening

If you’re looking at the best type of bulb for outdoor lighting, you don’t need to overthink it; we’ve got you.

For those wondering which type of outdoor lighting is best, here are your main options and what they’re best for—with real tips from what we see work in Tampa Bay yards every day.

Types of Outdoor Lighting 

Pathway Lights

Great for: sidewalks, walkways, driveways

Think of these like subtle runway lights that guide guests safely to your door. We installed a set for a family in Apollo Beach who kept tripping over their garden border at night—it was a game-changer. Low-profile, stylish, and practical.

Flood Lights

Great for: large yards, back patios, dark corners

These are the workhorses of outdoor lighting. Bright, broad beams that light up wide areas—especially helpful for security. Many come with motion sensors or dawn-to-dusk features. Ideal for lighting up a backyard before letting the dog out or checking a noise at night.

Motion Sensor Lights

Great for: side yards, near garages or entryways

These kick on when they sense movement—super handy when your hands are full of groceries, or if you want peace of mind knowing you’ll be alerted if someone’s lurking. We installed one for a homeowner in Riverview who just wanted to see raccoons coming before they made a mess.

Spotlights

Great for: accenting landscaping or home features

Not meant for security, but for style. These create a dramatic, magazine-cover feel when done right. Want to highlight that beautiful palm or the texture of your stonework? This is the move.

You may also be interested in: The Hottest Lighting Trends of 2025: Illuminate Your Space in Style

“Do I Need an Electrician for This?”

Short answer? It depends.

Replacing a bulb? Probably not. 

But adding new outdoor lighting—especially where there’s no existing wiring, or if you want smart controls—is where a licensed electrician makes sense.

And here’s why:

  • We know the local electrical codes
  • We make sure it’s weather-safe and properly grounded
  • We help you pick the right type of outdoor lighting to fit your space, not just whatever’s in stock at the big box store

Common Questions We Get (And Honest Answers)

“Can I get something bright without it being blinding?”

Absolutely. It’s all about choosing the right lumens and aiming the fixture correctly. We help you dial that in during install.

“Do I have to rewire my whole yard?”

Nope! In many cases, we can tap into existing circuits or use low-voltage systems that are safe and energy-efficient.

“What about smart lighting?”

Yes, we install motion lights, app-controlled systems, and WiFi timers all the time. And we make sure they actually work with your devices—no weird tech surprises.

Want to Get Started?

At Bryan Hindman Electric, we don’t just install outdoor lighting; we help homeowners feel confident about their homes.

If your yard feels dark, your entry isn’t welcoming, or you don’t know where to start, let us walk you through it.

We offer honest answers, clean work, and clear pricing—every time.

Let’s find the right type of outdoor lighting and light up your home the right way. Get in touch today.

Share this post: