Lighting Terminology

Color temperature: The measurement of how warm (yellow) or cool (blue) light appears, typically measured in Kelvin degrees.

Lumens: The measure of how much visible light is emitted by a light source.

Lux: The measurement of the amount of light that falls on a surface per unit of area.

CRI (Color Rendering Index): The measurement of how accurately colors are displayed under a given light source, typically measured on a scale from 0 to 100.

Foot-candles: The measurement of the amount of light that falls on a surface from a specific distance.

Beam angle: The size of the cone of light emitted by a light source, typically measured in degrees.

Lighting control systems: The systems that enable the control of lighting fixtures, such as dimming or color temperature adjustments.

Types of light sources: Includes incandescent, fluorescent, LED, halogen, and other sources of artificial light, each with unique characteristics and applications.

Types of lighting fixtures: Includes sconces, floor lamps, track lights, recessed lighting, and other fixtures, each with unique purposes and aesthetics.

Lighting design principles: Includes considerations such as layering, balance, contrast, and focal points, all of which contribute to successful lighting design.

Daylighting: The use of natural light to illuminate a space, including methods such as skylights, windows, and reflective surfaces.

Lighting design software: The use of software tools to aid in the design and visualization of lighting plans.

Lighting standards and regulations: Includes safety standards, building codes, and energy efficiency regulations that impact lighting design and installation.

Lighting maintenance and upkeep: The processes and considerations for maintaining lighting systems, including bulb replacement, cleaning, and troubleshooting.

Ambient Lighting: Lighting that provides general illumination throughout a space.

Accent Lighting: Lighting designed to highlight or draw attention to a specific object or area within a space.

Task Lighting: Lighting designed to support a specific task or activity, such as reading, cooking, or working at a desk.

Mood Lighting: Lighting that creates a specific atmosphere or mood within a space.

Natural Lighting: The use of sunlight or other natural light sources to illuminate a space.

Artificial Lighting: The use of electric light sources to illuminate a space.

Direct Lighting: Lighting that is directed at a specific object or area, typically from a light fixture or source.

Indirect Lighting: Lighting that is directed upward or towards a wall or ceiling to provide a more diffuse, soft, and atmospheric light.

Up Lighting: Lighting directed upwards, typically towards a wall or ceiling.

Down Lighting: Lighting directed downwards from a light fixture or source.

Wall Washing: Lighting used to evenly illuminate a wall or other large surface.

Grazing: Lighting positioned at a steep angle to highlight texture or create shadows.

Cross Lighting: Lighting from two different directions to create depth and visual interest.

Layered Lighting: The use of multiple types of lighting to create a balanced and visually appealing lighting design.

Emergency Lighting: Lighting designed to provide illumination in the event of a power outage or other emergency situation.

Color Temperature: The warmth or coolness of a light source, measured in kelvins.

Color Rendering Index (CRI): A measurement of how well a light source reveals colors compared to natural sunlight.

Dusk-to-Dawn Lighting: Lighting that automatically turns on at dusk and turns off at dawn.

Motion-Activated Lighting: Lighting that is activated by motion, typically used for security or safety purposes.

Smart Lighting: Lighting that is controlled by a smart device or home automation system.