DIGITAL OR FILM? The digital camera is one of the most amazing wonders to come out of our technological age. The ability to record and view photographs without the need for developing and printing has huge benefits for ghost hunting. In the early days of digital cameras, critics would suggest that the orb anomaly was a result of defeats in the digital camera. However, Sony’s Technical Department has stated that the orbs and ectoplasm is NOT caused by a camera defect! Lens flare is still common when inexperienced photographers point their camera toward the sun and snap photos, but this happens with film cameras as well and is not unique to the digital formats. In most cases, digital images are better and more reliable than the chemical methods of film prints which can actually be physically affected by the surrounding environment during the development process, as well as by the skill and experience (or lack of) the developer at your local processing location.

The digital format is favored because it has several benefits over film format. First, the image can be viewed immediately so the location of the ghostly anomaly can be confirmed and focused on with other cameras and instruments. Second and most important, images are already in jpg format and suitable for uploading to the Internet. These images do not need to be scanned into the computer as film images require.

No maker of digital cameras has ever suggested that the orbs, ectoplasm or vortices were the result of camera defects. Sony has said that their digital camera do not create orb-shaped anomalies at night. So why do digital cameras seem to pick up more than traditional film cameras? The reason seems to be that digital cameras do not record images optically as in regular film cameras, but through a serious of sensors that measure and record each individual photon of light (or energy) which seem to be sensitive to a wider range of wavelengths than what you can see with the human eye.

For example, most digital cameras are sensitive to certain kinds of infrared light, and there’s a simple experiment you can do to see this for yourself. Take any common infrared remote control – television, stereo, or garage door opener - found in any home. When you press the button, it shoots out an invisible, unseen beam at whatever object you are pointing it at. But your camera can detect it – look at the business end of a remote through a digital camera. When you activate the remote, you can actually see the light emanating from the end of the remote which you are unable to see with the naked eye. In this same way, the digital camera detects more unseen phenomena than traditional film cameras can. That’s why there’s a huge increase in the amount of ghost photographs being taken since the introduction of digital cameras, and they’re getting better all the time.

When taking video, it's best to let it sit by itself. Don't baby-sit it. This way it prevents any false images due to you moving around and kicking up dust particles that will make their way in front of the lens.


While reviewing your photos will be the most rewarding part of ghost photography, it will also be frustrating at times, as many shots will contain nothing at first glance. Every photo should be studied intently. Many times, the only clue that you where in the presence of a spirit will be a shadow with no source or a blurry spot in front of an object. When reviewing your photos, look for shadows with no source, or faint outlines of figures. Also, look for blurry images, faces or hands in midair, or images in windows or doorways. You can also look for white lights, streaks, or anything that just doesn't look like it belongs! Things will often be overlooked because the viewer is looking for that "big" discovery that stands out immediately while missing more subtle and often more mysterious anamolies. You can use photo editing software to enhance anything that looks suspicious. Many times just the simple act of lightening dark shots taken at night will bring out hidden detail that your camera captured that isn't easily seen any other way.


Types of film. Before choosing just any film for your camera, it should be mentioned that Kodak Gold 400 ASA film seems to get the most results. Kodak Gold 800 ASA film is also a common choice of the experienced ghost hunter. Some may also decide to use black & white film and, more expensively, infrared film. Keep in mind that infrared will not only cost more per roll of film but, developing is more expensive as well.

Loading your film. Try loading your film at the investigation site. It is theorized by some ghost hunters that doing this may increase your chances of a ghost "imprinting" an image on your film.

Film development. If you get your film developed at your local photo shop, be sure to leave a special note that you want ALL photos "as is". Many photo labs will only return films that they see as quality images. Unbeknownst to them, they may be getting rid of a perfectly good anomalous image.


ADVANCED EQUIPMENT TIPS:
Know your equipment. The foremost important rule about equipment is to know how to use it properly before you conduct an investigation. Many times people will wait to begin experimenting with their equipment until they are actually on an investigation. Not only does it look unorganized, a dark cemetery doesn't make for good learning conditions.



EMF Detectors. EMF meters detect the electro-magnetic fields oftentimes associated with ghosts and haunting activity. But don't be fooled into thinking that EMF's are exclusive to the paranormal. Before you run screaming "GHOST!” the possibility of an electrical source must be ruled out. Appliances, televisions, digital alarm clocks, power lines, etc. all emit EMF's while in use. To get a feel for your EMF meter, begin by scanning your home. Put it close to the T.V. set while it is both on and off. When you get a reading, scan to see actually how far the EMF extends away from the set itself. Further than you thought, huh? This will give you a feel for what is “normal” and what is not.

When scanning for ghosts, don't just hold the device in your hand. Hold your detector directly into the area you wish to scan. Be sure to scan headstones, chairs, couches and other sitting surfaces, corners, closets and anywhere you think a ghost might go. Move your meter in all directions while scanning. For example, don't simply put it in a closet momentarily; scan the closet top to bottom, left to right.


Recording devices. Audio recorders are a means of obtaining EVP's, electronic voice phenomena. EVP's, to say the least, are difficult to capture on tape. To increase your chances, here are some tips to help. First, purchase a recording device that has a microphone separate from the frame. Microphones that are in-frame tend to record noise generated from internal motors and turning wheels. A detached microphone will significantly minimize this type of unwanted noise. Second, place your recorder in an area where haunting activity is suspected to occur and when no people will be present during recording.


Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP). When recording for EVP's, be sure that those present speak in a normal tone of voice. Speak only when necessary and in a normal manner, but avoid constant chatter. This will help you easily distinguish an EVP from people present at the investigation. While making any kind of audio recording, never, EVER whisper! Many of the EVPs that are captured are in a low whisper. So refraining from whispering to each other will increase your chances in obtaining a real EVP. Also, try to keep normal talking down to a minimum. This will help when you're trying to make out what a spirit actually says in an EVP.

When attempting to record EVPs, make note of any outside noises. This includes car alarms, airplanes flying close by, trains, a busy road nearby and anyone talking. Sometimes the noises from these things can get distorted when far away, making you wonder if it's a moaning spirit or tortured soul.


Temperature reading tools. If you intend to take temperature readings at an investigation, consider a digital thermometer. Not only do they keep a memory of the highest and lowest monitored temperatures, most come equipped with alarms and take measurements several times a minute. The alarm feature is especially helpful in letting you know when sudden and drastic changes occur and allows you to focus your attention elsewhere. A more expensive option for instant temperature measurements are the new infrared laser scanners, point-and-shoot devices that detect temperature differences using infrared technology. Highly accurate and convenient, one can expect to pay in excess of $200 for one. If you like, you can use these tools to detect cold spots. Many people report a temperature drop in the presence of a spirit. Look for a change of 10-15 degrees or more.


Thermal scanner. When using your thermal scanner, be aware of surfaces that may read colder in temperature. In winter, windows, doors and any other surface exposed to the elements will show a significant drop in temperature. Also, lights, appliances and radiators will appear as heat sources. Always rule out the obvious before jumping to conclusions!