First, make a sketch of the yard or outdoor area you will be lighting. Start by drawing the outside perimeter of the area you will lighting, buildings, and walkways. Creating a sketch with an aerial view allows you to include all of the plants, water features, benches, and walkways. Take into account any additional plants and landscaping you will be adding.
Decide what type of lights you will be using. Some types of outdoor lighting include: accent, flood, path, area, in-ground, wall wash, submersible, step indicators, and other indicator lights.
Place your lights on your map so that they highlight the landscape and architectural features that you want to stand out. Keep safety in mind as you choose how to light walkways and building entrances.
Create a product list from your sketch, including all the lights you have listed. For a low voltage display, you will likely be able to connect the system to one outlet using a transformer. For a high voltage system, you will need to have a new wiring system laid to support your outdoor lighting display.