Equipment
Whenever conducting an investigation, it is necessary to have certain equipment. By having the right tools, investigators are able to accuratley record their findings. Listed below is the equipment that we use while conducting an investigation. Like in any job, having the right tools makes a big difference in the end results.
Baby Powder - Baby powder can be used as a method of detecting touch or foot steps.
Barometer - Berimetric pressure can be a sign of paranormal activity when it drops or increases rapidly.
Batteries - Always bring plenty of extra batteries. Batteries have a tendency to drain on ghost hunting investigations. An energy source around them can make them powerless in a matter of seconds.
Camera - A camera is a ghost hunter's #1 tool. Cameras can capture things not seen by the human eye. Any camera can work, but we suggest a 35mm with 400 speed film. Always bring extra batteries and film. An extra camera can be useful when experiencing unexpectewd problems. Whenever you feel a change in temperature or something happening around you, start taking pictures. These are the best times to capture orbs, fogs, or streaks.
Candles - Candles are a good back up light source when battery power has exhausted.
Cell Phone - Always have a way of communication with an emergency contact, wheather it's a friend or 911. You can never be too safe.
Compass - A compass will change with magnetic interference. It can be a source of detecting paranormal presense.
Digital Camera - A digital camera can hold many more shots than a standard camera. It is good for viewing still shots immediatly after taking them. Most digital cameras give you the option of enlarging the shots you have taken. This will help you quickly verify whatever is in your photo.
Dowsing Rod - A dousing rod can find energy field if used properly. Hold the rods pointing away from you and walk. When the rods turn in toward each other and cross, you have found an energy field.
EMF Detector (Electromagnetic Field Detector) - A common tool to have on an investigation.
A very inexpensive, and necessary, piece of equipment. A great tool to measure the electromagnetic changes around you.
Flashlight - Most investigations are done in the dark of night or in a building that may have no power. Flashlights are the best source of light when moving around from place to place.
First Aid Kit - It is very easy to be cut while moving around in strange, dark places. Be prepared.
Film - Always have more than you need. We suggest Kodak 400 speed for the best results.
Motion Detector - This will alarm you when something is moving. In an area you want to watch without be close, setup your motion detector and move quickly when they go off.
Notebook - Keep records of everything you do. List places, times, and happenings while out on a hunt or investigation. Sometimes things happen in the same place at the same time daily.
Pocket Knife - Try to bring one with attachments such as a screwdriver, saw, and other useful tools to assist you with problems that need quick fixes.
Tape Recorder (With Microphone) - Record in areas that are quite. Ask questions and pause a moment so that a possible answer can be heard. Use a microphone so the sounds of the recorder will not be picked up. Be aware of your surroundings for possible outside noises that may be confused with an actual EVP. Wind, cars, trucks, planes, trains, insects, or animals can give off sounds that may be mistaken for something else.
Thermal Scanner - This tool will detect changes in the temperature around you. Cold spots can often be a sign of an unknown presence that can move from spot to spot.
Tripod - For still shots with a camera or video camera. A hot spot can be continuously photographed or taped without moving your camera view of the area.
Video Camera - Use with a tripod, a video camera can be set up to run in any area's you visit to record while the area is undisturbed. Many things can be captured while no one is there such as moving objects, orbs, mist, apparations, etc. Videos are one of the most accurate ways to prove the presence of paranormal activity.
Walkie Talkie - An excellent tool for groups to keep in contact with each other while investigating a building or cemetery.
Watch - Record times of everything that happens; a good habit to get into.
Ziplock Baggies - For collecting physical pieces or objects that are important to your research of a site. Remember to ask before removing something that does not belong to you. Also good for keeping things dry while in a wet or damp place.
There are several other things you may want to use for your investigations. Always go over a checklist of everything before you leave. Having the right equipment with you will make a big difference in the quality of an investigation or ghost hunt you are attempting.
