Basically, there is ground level lighting that lights garden areas for accent and to also light pathways. The other type of lighting, either at ground level or on the soffits, can be directed to light the exterior of the home, in other words, washing the walls. All of this is a matter of asthetics and what you want to light at night. Outdoor lighting is usually put on a timer so you can control when the lights operate. Good outdoor lighting that will last and hold up can be rather expensive.