This session will cover the three primary components of lighting design: “Why”, “What” and “How”. The “Why” portion, considered the most important, discusses the reasons why people want/need light. It teaches designers how to ask key questions to help uncover the wants and needs of their prospects and just as importantly, how to listen. The answers uncovered during this discovery phase acts as a basis and foundation for the lighting design and directs the designer to address the “What” and “How”. The “What” portion teaches the lighting designer how to interpret the site and identify key landscape and architectural elements worthy of lighting that not only enhances the aesthetic but satisfies the needs of the client; in other words, satisfies the “Why”. The “How” portion covers specific lighting techniques commonly used by lighting professionals to illuminate landscape and architectural elements. While several techniques can potentially be used to light a given element, the importance of satisfying client needs will be emphasized. The selection of specific fixture types based on the intended lighting technique desired will also be discussed. Additionally, we will discuss the importance of color in any professionally designed lighting project and the use of lighting accessories designed to help the lighting professional manipulate light output. This class will be interactive in nature, encouraging questions throughout.