Hunt

Find out what you really need to know in order to be a true ghost hunter :

The Ghost Hunters Code
The CODE will protect you from harm and guide you on your quest.Memorise it to serve you well.
What you really need to know...

1. Let them (ghosts & spirits) know they are not forgotten
Let your journey in this field of study be a labor of love. Remember to be respectful of ghosts & sprits, as they were once people, and still are for that matter.
2. Never tease, threaten or dare an unseen entity
First of all, we want to be taken seriously. Secondly, we are ghost hunters, not bullies. Lastly, we sure don't want any vindictive entities following us home or worse yet, attacking and hurting us.
3. Conduct yourself as a professional at all times
We always want to present ourselves as one in control. And that of course means around other investigators, victims of a haunting, and even to the ghosts themselves. Self-confidence and control will radiate like a beacon of light and thus serve as a shield of protection.
4. Never seek out entities on your own
A team of two works well and three is the ideal number. Larger groups will need to break up into smaller groups.
5. Addicting habits can be contradictory to your ghostly pursuits
Examples would be heavy addictions to drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, an abnormal sex drive, etc. These things in excess make you vulnerable and susceptible to attack. The attack stems from the entities attraction to your addictions and also because of your weakness. Mind altering substances are particularly enticing to them.
6. Pay attention to your dreams
Entities will use this relaxed state of mind & body to try and influence or torment it's targeted victim. Use whatever wording is necessary (according to your own spiritual beliefs) to command such an intrusion to cease. Command it in the holy name of your God or higher power.
7. Use religious relics & symbols as a protection
But only use these if you believe in what they can do. It's not the item itself that has the power, it's what it symbolizes according to your faith. That's what actually gives it its power.
8. Listen to your instincts and your intuition
Draw from the power within. You will find this to be your greatest resource.
9. Never leave a team member behind, not ever
Commit yourself to the task at hand until it's done. A combined effort makes the team a whole intricate working structure.
10. Always consider all aspects of a haunting
Go into an investigation with a kind heart and gracious attitude. But know that most hauntings can be explained. i.e. house settling, furnace noises etc. And as sad as it is, you must also consider the mental & emotional state of the victim as well. Paranoia, delusional aspects and mental illness in general may be a consideration. As a final note; it should also be stated however, that in some cases, an unstable person can actually be open to these types of visitors and or attacks.
11. Always remember, you are the one in control
You have the body and thus you have the power. It's really simple, you are in your element. This is your dimension and your reality. Unseen entities are intruders into your space. That is, unless they are invited in or find a way in through your weaknesses. Be strong by curving appetites and living a productive & wholesome life.
12. Be familiar with all aspects of the supernatural
Know well the entities you pursue. Understand them and the things of their world. Knowledge is power. The more you know, the more confident you become. Be careful though, not all knowledge is good. Acquire it with a scientific standpoint.
13. Your best protection is in the life you lead
If you are active in ghostly pursuits then evil will cross your path, so be armed. If you are religious, then live your religion. But whether you are or not, you best protection is to live so as to put others first. Good deeds and a love for all life is your greatest protection.
14. Don't be afraid to experiment
Not everything you try will work. If one attempt or theory fails, keep trying. Simply move on to the next thing on your list. And by all means, have a list.
15. Do your homework
Consider all aspects of an investigation before you go. A preliminary walk through ahead of time is advised. Doing a history check is helpful as well. Anything you can find out ahead of time will be to your advantage.
16. Never be without outside contact
Make sure others outside your team are aware of where you are when on an assignment or investigation. A cell phone is a must.
17. Demonic Possession
It's extremely rare that you will ever hear of a full-fledged demonic possession. But it is something that all ghost hunters need to be aware of and briefed on. Full-possession requires an "invitation" in order to gain a foothold. However, there are activities that can be construed as an invitation. i.e. Ouija boards, séances, etc. A person with heavy addictions, sins, depression or someone who is desperately lonely are more apt to be targets. When any type of invitation is construed, whether implied or direct, it may very well be acted upon by such evil entities. Even with all that, it's still rare that evil will triumph successfully, but it is possible in some cases. Ghost hunters are somewhat susceptible because of the nature of their work.
18. Lower Level Entities
There are other less severe life forms that we need to be aware of as well. They are evil and are here to weaken the population through their influence. Their ultimate goal is to distract us from our life duties and make us as unproductive as possible. These creatures are subtle but very much determined. People that allow themselves to be heavily influenced in this direction are also more prone to demonic possession. This type of entity uses distraction through such things as computers, video games, unwholesome activities, etc. If you miss out on important family outings or you lose your job because you want to stay home and play video games, etc, then they have gained some control. It's called, lower level possession. Ghost hunters need to avoid this trap at all cost. Refer to codes 5, 6, 11 & 13. And for a good resource, buy a book on Psychic Self-Defense.
19. Be scientifically minded
Strive to prove the existence of ghosts and the afterlife. We as Ghost Hunters cannot simply rely on the word of someone with a particular gift. We need to know for ourselves and we need to document it in our studies.
20. Rely on your senses
Be ever mindful of your own awareness. We are all born with the gift of inspiration. We also have a bell (so to speak) that sounds off when we are in danger. It's a gift that needs to be focused on. Constantly pay attention to this special ability that we all have. Especially when on an investigation. As you become more aware and in tune, you will be able to better sense ghosts & other types of entities.
21. Evidence is everything
All we really have to show for our hard word is the evidence we collect. So take notes, write up reports, snap pictures, collect EVPs. Keep a log.
22. Be aware that theories change
What is believed to be true today may not be tomorrow. If there's anything we can depend on, it's change. What we may know about ghosts today may change tomorrow. We need to embrace credible evidence and use that knowledge to our advantage. So be willing to let go of old theories when need be. If we don't, we will be left behind.
23. Expect Results
Go into every assignment with an attitude of well defined purpose. Go knowing you have your preliminary research accomplished beforehand and then have a plan to make it all come together. A good investigator is organized and thorough. The right attitude yields results!
24. It's okay to be afraid
That is, as long as it doesn't seriously effect the investigation or make you especially vulnerable.
Excessive fear will make you ineffective as a contributing team member and will make you a target for entities. Excessive fear or anger feeds and empowers curtain types of entities. Enjoy the thrill of the chase and scream if you must. But everything in moderation.
25. LIVE THE CODE !
It will protect you on your journey and guide you on your quest. Ghost hunting will be one of the most exciting experiences of your life... enjoy!

How to take pictures of ghosts
Here's the must know facts that every ghost hunter should know when out on a ghostly photography shoot. There are many basics that all ghost photographers should be aware of in order to have the best possible chance of getting ghostly phenomena on film.

Get started
The first thing you should realize is that ghost phenomena does not always show up on film, even when they are present. And daylight photos are always a challenge. Therefore it's always better to take your photos at night with a flash or in an area with subdue lighting for the best possible chance of capturing something..

Type of camera's to use
Just about any camera will give you the desired photo results you seek. If you want the advantage of slow shutter exposure or fancy filters then you'll need a fancy camera to do it but to capture ghost phenomena on film can be achieved by using just about any camera you might have.Also by using 400 film. It's an all purpose film that will work great in most conditions.

Digital Camera's are a great tool for ghost hunters, but...
Digital cameras can be a great tool for ghost photographers! They allow you to see your photo results immediately. No film required! They only require a memory card or in some cases like mine, a floppy disk. The big advantage is, you will know right away if you have captured an anomaly, therefore allowing you to track it. There are draw backs however, digital cameras do not furnish a negative, therefore it's hard to prove your photos are not enhanced, A drawback indeed! So with that in mind, never depend totally on a digital camera for all your photos....more like use it as a tool to locate the anomalies. Then have a buddy duplicate your photos with a regular film camera. This will document your findings with a negative as well as a hard copy photo. Digital cameras are the best for capturing authentic ghostly orbs on film because of the technology used, (no doubt about it). But they are also notorious for producing them artificially from airborne particles at the time of the flash. These particles being, dust, pollen, and moisture, to name a few. Please note however that regular film cameras can also pick up these artificial orbs, but it is much more rare and they are always fewer in numbers. A general rule is to look for some substance within the orb structure for authenticity. Also avoid taking pictures in the above described conditions....that's it! Take your digital camera along with you on your ghost hunts but also take along your 35 MM camera as well. It's best to use them as a team.

Here are twenty helpful tips:

1. Ghosts are not just in haunted old buildings. Ghosts are almost everywhere in one form or another. So don't be afraid to take photos at the mall or out on a busy intersection at night, or anywhere else for that matter.
2. When you take photos at night, let's say in a cemetery etc. make sure you have you camera set for night filming. If your camera has this setting, please use it otherwise your photos might come out to dark or fuzzy.
3. Always take photos of something and not just a clearing. Having a background image such as a tombstone, tree, building etc., It adds to the quality of the photo and allows mild light reflection for best possible results.
4. Take lots of pictures! Takes photos of anything & everything with a good background image. The odds are good that you will capture an anomaly if you take at least 50 pictures on your hunt. Then again, you might just get some great stuff on your first roll, you just never know.
5. When taking your photos, make sure to avoid shinny surfaces. The shine from a glossy tombstone or pane of glass etc. can cause anomalies that can appear to look like ghost mist, fog & orb shapes. Oh, and never try taking photos through a glass window. It's just to easy to create shapes that aren't really there. Not worth wondering if it was created from the glass or not. Old glass is the worst.
6. Make sure your camera lens is clean at all times. Again, this can cause anomaly type images to appear. If the lens has a smudge it can easily show up on several pictures and can look like an anomaly, so look for that sign. Try to always keep your lens spotless.
7. Make sure you know where your camera strap & lens cover are at all times. These can appear as a vortex or other ghostly images if left to dangle free from the camera. If your thumb or finger is in the way of the lens it can cause this same effect.
8. Make sure long hair is tied back. Hair can also appear as a ghostly anomaly. Strains of hair can look like orbs in motion as well as ghost energy.
9. Completely avoid taking photos when conditions are windy, foggy, rainy, dusty and where it's snowing or when moisture is in the air. All of these conditions can cause images to appear that look exactly like orbs and ghostly anomalies.
10. In cold weather make sure your breath is not affecting the photo results. Exhaled air in cold weather can appear in front of the lens to create all sorts of strange elusions including mist & orbs shapes.
11. A condition called "Lens Flair" produces strange effects in your photos. To avoid this do not take photos in the direction of the sun. Also, never take a picture in the direction of any direct light source. Preferably have all light sources away from you or even behind you when snapping your photos.
12. Talk to the ghosts. When you enter an area that you want to photograph, such as a cemetery, follow these steps: Walk around the area for about 15 minutes before doing anything else. As you're walking around, clear your mind and think only good thoughts. (Ghosts can sense your feelings and read your thoughts) After 15 minutes, recite the following statement or something similar. "Hi, my name is ______, We have come here to take some pictures of you as ghosts in order to show & document that there is life after death. We have only the best of intentions. We are not here to do any harm and we will only be here long enough to take our photos and then we will leave. Our only request is to take a picture of you, any of you! Thank you so much. I'll begin taking pictures now......thanks. Take all the pictures you think you need to and start heading back to your car. On the way, stop one last time and say: We are leaving now, just in case I didn't get any pictures of you on film can I take just 5 more pictures of this monument (or whatever) and would one of you mind posing for me in these very last photos? Take five more photos and then say: Thank you so much for putting up with me & my group.....we enjoyed being here in your company and am grateful for any photos you have allowed us to have of you..........thanks again, bye. If you were able to get some good pictures and you proved your good intentions to the ghosts.....then you will be welcomed back on your return visit.
13. Most ghost energy will appear in the air from two to ten feet above the ground. So focus a portion of your attention at that level but don't limit yourself totally to it. Ghostly phenomena can and will also appear above your head at times so be sure and snap some random shots up above at times. Note: in a buildings they can appear at any level of the structure and at any height.
14. The odds of encountering an evil spirit are slim to none but here is the counsel concerning them. Don't go hunting for evil spirits and DO NOT dare them to come around. If you hear or see a sign of evil spirits you should leave immediately.
15. Avoid mirrors or even taking photos in the general direction of a mirror. The camera flash can create a flash in the mirror that can produce a variety of effects including vapor, mist & fog.
16. Try following your instincts when taking ghost photos. If you have a particular inclination to snap a photo in a particular direction or at a particular object, do it. Trust your feelings an as you do, your abilities to sense ghosts should increase.
17. Ghosts are quite often attracted to people and will follow them around. So include people in the photos you take. Tip: When taking photos of others try to include enough space to one side of the picture and above the heads of those in the photo to capture any anomalies present. Remember the purpose is to catch anomalies and people together in the same photo. Here's another trick to use when ghosts might be following you around......put the camera over your shoulder and snap a picture behind you. This can be an effective technique at times......trust me.
18. The best time of the year for capturing ghost images on film are in the colder months when electrostatic energy is at it's highest. These months being October through February. You can capture any kind of ghost type on film at any time of the year but the above mentioned months just increase your odds is all. Orbs however, don't seem to be affected by seasons and are by far the easiest anomalies to capture on film.
19. Remember your flash limitations. A flash can only be useful for up to a certain distance. Normally within 15 feet. So if you are in a cemetery at night and take a picture of a mausoleum 30 feet away, the image will be hard to view and a bit washed out, as well as any anomalies present. Important note: The flash will help highlight the anomaly if the background image is within the the range (15 feet). Note: A flash attachment will increase your range if you desire to use one.
20. Best places to take pictures: Some places are more haunted than others. Some typically haunted locations are cemeteries, old buildings, including old hotels, houses, hospitals, schoolhouses, and churches. Other good spots are theaters as well as any historic part of a city. Use your imagination and see what works for you. Just remember the best rule of thumb is to include places that are rich in history on your investigations. That's the basics in a nutshell.......study and know them well and you will be well on your way to capturing strange phenomena on film in the near future. I might add, once you start seeing the fruits of your labor, you will be hooked! And life will no longer be the same for you as it was before. Ghost hunting is a great hobby and can be a truly fulfilling one as well. We wish you the best of luck in your endeavors!
Don't forget to check out your old photos and photo albums for ghost anomalies. You might be pleasantly surprised at the ghost pictures you already have!

How to hunt for Ghosts
Here is the list of all the basic ghost hunting tips necessary for optimal results in the field.
Remember... It is possible for a ghost to follow you home, and this is obviously a concern among ghost hunters. However, it is extremely rare!

Here are twenty helpful tips:

1. Never go alone on a ghost hunt. Take along a partner for safety and peace of mind.
2. Always say a prayer of protection before and after a ghost hunt. We don't want those pesky ghosts following us home!
3. Make sure all of your equipment is fully charged and that you have extra batteries available. Ghosts have the ability to drain fully charged instruments.
4. Don't walk into an area snapping pictures right off the bat. Give those ghosts that are present some time to get used to you.
5. Be aware of the surroundings for safety sake. For best results, always take a day walk through before doing a nighttime investigation, if possible. The other option would be to show up just before dark (dusk) and have a look around before starting.
6. A ghost hunter steps into an investigation/ghost hunt with the best of feelings for those that are with him/her and for the ghosts that might be present. In other words, full respect for the living and the dead.
7. Above all - NO HORSE PLAY! A serious and conscientious ghost hunter gets results.
8. Large groups should split up into smaller groups of four individuals or less per team.
9. If you are scientifically minded, and I hope that you are.....take along a notebook to record significant occurrences. Begin by logging in the starting time and weather conditions etc. Also make note of surrounding lights so as to not confuse them with anomalies later on in the pictures. Record all meter abnormalities, strange sounds, sightings and feeling or emotions. Each group should take their own notes and compare afterwards.
10. Do not show fear. A gracious ghost will not come around if they sense you are fearful. Yet your fear can have a mischievous ghost feeding on that fear.
11. Always remember, you are the one with the body, and you are the one with the power. Don't give up your power to them through fear.
12. Keep in mind that a lot of the places you will be investigating will be secluded. Because of this you should always bring along some form of protection e.g pepper spray or a stun gun.( this is for protecting yourself from bad people, not bad ghosts )
13. If you are going to be taking pictures, be sure and read the 'photography tips' listed above.
14. If you feel that some unknown force wants you out of there...then by all means get out! You should never go against these feelings or you could end up having something show up at your home. Turnabout is fair play right?
15. Never dare an unseen entity to make itself known to you. However, It is okay to ask those present if you can take their picture or record their voice.
16. Make sure you have permission before entering private property such as a cemetery or abandoned house. I know how tempting this can be for a ghost hunter to do. Just remember this though, when you are caught sneaking around, it makes the ghost hunting community as a whole look bad. You could also be fined or jailed.
17. If you are not familiar with EMF meters, you might want to check out 'meter tips'
18. A word about ghost voices, referred to as EVP (electronic voice phenomena). Take along an audio recorder and as you are recording ask questions to those invisible beings that might be in the area. Pause for an answer. It's also a good idea to ask some questions and then leave the device recording in a remote location for around 20 minutes or so. When you come back you might have your replies! For a list of EVP instructions for capturing ghost voices, please see our EVP page.
19. Be sure and have a look at the CODE guidelines expected when hunting for ghosts.
20. End a ghost hunt/investigation by evoking the power of God as a protection. "All unseen presences must remain here in the name of God" (or however you would do it according to your own personal religious beliefs). And don't forget to thank these that are unseen for any evidence you may have acquired during the investigation/hunt.

How to record ghost voices
The dead do talk, and with the help of electronic devices we can hear them!You can even capture voices in places that have had no known tragedy or history of a death. It seems that when ghosts catch on to what we're doing they try and respond. It's usually the ones that are distressed and saddened with despair.
EVP ( ELECTRONIC VOICE PHENOMENA )- Rating system for EVP's
Class A - The voices are understood by all that listen. The words are actually somewhat loud and clear (rare).
Class B - Voices cannot be deciphered clearly and tones are very low and hard to understand
Class C - Voices are extremely faint and almost completely incomprehensible (most common but unexceptable).
"A good investigator is objective. Adheres to scientific protocols, eliminates all other possibilities and presents what is found"

There are three proven ways to gather ghost recordings on tape.
1. Lay the unit down with MIC extended, ask a few questions and walk away for twenty minutes.
2. This time lay the unit down and stay there asking questions and pausing for a response.
3. Gently carry the recorder around with you as you walk. Stop and ask a question, pause for answer then move on to the next stop.

Helpful tips:

1. Only use new name brand tapes, not department store specials. The better tapes will increase the clarity of the voice you capture and is worth the difference in cost. A tape labeled "normal" from a company such as TDK or Maxell are affordable and fine for use with EVP. Remember, it's not professional to use a previously recorded tape for something as important as this.
2. If possible, use an EXTERNAL microphone. This will drastically cut down on the motor noises and internal sounds from the recording device. Extend the MIC away from the unit when recording.
3. If you have to talk on an investigation, do it in a normal voice. Whispering can sound like a ghost voice when playing back the tape.
4. Always maintain a positive attitude and expect to get results.
5. As you are recording, be sure to make note of any sounds or noises so as to not confuse it with something paranormal during playback.
6. If you're recording unit has a sensitivity level, adjust it to the highest level possible. A ghost voice is usually very faint and anything we can do will help.
7. Consider setting your unit to "voice activated" mode if it has it. But only do this if your unit is extra sensitive or has the ability to adjust the sensitivity to high.
8. Both digital and regular tape recorders seem to work fine. However, some say that reel to reel and full size cassette players work the best. That could very well be true, especially when using an external MIC.
9. At the beginning of your recording session state your location, the time, and the weather conditions. This can be very helpful later on.
10. Ask the spirits to talk loudly and even shout if possible. We need that voice as loud and clear as possible.
11. On playback do not confuse background noise and garble as a ghost voice! If it sounds like it could be background noise, then it most likely is just that.
12. There are several programs that can be used to edit your voice results. You can find some of these on the web at Downloads.com & Tucows.com .
13. When asking questions for a ghostly response, never say "is anyone there?." ALWAYS act like you know they are there. So say something like "what is your name?" or "is there something I can do for you?" Try it.
14. During playback it is advised that you use earphones that completely cover your ears as to not allow distractions when you're reviewing for the first time. And when adjusting the volume make sure it is at a safe level so that a sudden loud burst will not deafen you.
15. You can convert your EVP to a a computer file
16. Always express your gratitude at the end of the recording session. They like it when you say Thank you.

Standards & protocols for Ghost hunters
1. Avoid taking pictures in the rain or when it’s snowing or foggy. Moisture or precipitation in the air can and will cause artificial anomalies to appear on film. Also remember that precipitation is in the air before & after a storm.
2. Do not smoke during an investigation. Also stay away from lit barbeques and open campfires. In other words, avoid smoke, flames.
3. Hold your breath when snapping photos on a cold night. Exhaled breath can show up as a mist or fog on film.
4. Tie long hair back so it doesn’t show up in front of the lens.
5. Know where your camera strap is at all times. Either have it around your neck or take it off. Also be mindful of a tangling lens cover.
6. Avoid taking pictures during any adverse weather conditions. Including windy days.
7. Stay off private property unless you have permission.
8. Never go on an investigation alone. Particularly in a secluded area.
9. Make sure your camera lens is clean. A smudge can look like an anomaly.
10. Know where your fingers are and keep them away from the lens.
11. Avoid taking pictures of shinny objects. This means glass, mirrors, reflective objects and anything that shines or that could cause a reflection.
12. If you are using a camera with night settings, use that setting when taking pictures in the evening and inside of dark buildings.
13. Avoid lens flair. Never take pictures in the direction of the sun or a strong light source. Try to have light sources behind you when snapping a picture.
14. No horse play during an investigation.
15. Never dare spirits to come around. You might get your wish and they aren't always friendly during these situations.
16. Promote positive energy during an investigation or ghost hunt. The good ghosts will sense fear and stay away out of kindness and the bad ones will feed off of your fear. Either way, for best results and safety, always go into an investigation with positive & compassionate feelings. In other words think happy thoughts.
17. Let the ghosts know what you are doing and why you are there. Invite them to have their picture taken.
18. Be objective about the things you encounter! Try to find other rational for everything. If there is no other explanation for what you witness, you may be on to something!
19. It's always a good idea to keep a cell phone with you just in case.
20. A ghost hunt is no place for cigarettes and alcohol. Cigarette smoke looks like ghostly forms in photos and alcohol can distort your senses. That goes for any other mind altering substances as well.

Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP) - Communicate with Dead

An EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomenon) is a voice that is recorded on an electronic device that is not heard by human ears at the time of recording. These recordings are sometimes vague in their meaning or sounding and other times the listeners can tell exactly what is being said. Some are uplifting and reassuring while others chill you to the bone. What one can expect in an EVP is as random as the lottery.
Séances, Mediums, Ouija boards - is it possible to talk to the dead? Can the dead communicate with us? Many paranormal researchers believe it is possible using a method known as EVP or Electronic Voice Phenomena.
EVP involves recording empty space or white noise on tape recorders or other magnetic devices and subsequently examining those recording looking for discrete messages from spirits. These messages may sound like noise to some but EVP investigators using computer software, can clean up those recordings in order to make the voices easier to hear. Since recorders use magnets to record sound, anything that would disturb this magnetic field, such as paranormal activity, could be recorded on tape.
Nobody knows whether our personalities pass on to another existence or sphere but it is possible to construct an apparatus which will be so delicate that if there are personalities in another existence or sphere who wish to get in touch with us in this existence or sphere, this apparatus will at least give them a better opportunity to express themselves than the tilting tables and raps and Ouija boards and mediums and the other crude methods now purported to be the only means of communication.

How to Record EVP?
One strange characteristic of EVP recordings is the requirement that there be noise in the background. Cheap records work best and if higher quality recorders, which would produce a cleaner sound, are used then "white noise" must be generated. This requirement is why skeptics often claim that EVP is nothing more than radio interference.
To record EVP you first need a recorder - IC recorders have become very popular. A high quality microphone and good headphones are also needed. If the circuitry on your recorder is high quality then you'll get best results by including "white noise" using a white noise generator of by using a AM radio that is tuned off-station. Many claim that any kind of noise can be used including recordings of white noise, nature sounds, or running water.
A typical EVP session involves taking your gear to a location where spirits would be most likely found - a graveyard or an old haunted house. Walk around the area and speak questions into your recorder, then wait for 30 seconds or so (while playing "white noise" if the internal circuitry of your recording device does not produce enough noise on its own) and record the responses (which you most likely won't hear on site). Take your recordings home, transport them to your computer, and then use sound edition software such as Cool Edit (now called Audition) to clean up the resulting recordings.

Here are some tips to capturing some good EVP's:
1. Have background noise. If it is too quiet you may not catch anything. The spirits use energy to make themselves heard and background noise alleviates the strain on the spirits a bit.

2. Use either digital or analog devices. Never mix and match on one case. If you leave home with 8 recorders and six are analog do not use the digital ones. It just adds more credibility to your EVP's and your investigation.

3. Don't fall into temptation. When an investigation is anything but forthcoming it is very tempting to "add" your own ghostly sounds and noises. There are experts who can tell the difference. When in doubt choose your credibilty over your results.

4. Eliminate unneccesary movement. With even the slightest movement one great voice or sounds can be completely overcome. So to have the best results get comfortable enough prior to recording so that movement will occur as little as possible.

5. Relax. Ask questions as if you were right next to the person and they were alive. Avoid cruel questions and ones that offend. (At least until it becomes neccesary to achieve a response through provocation.)

6. Lastly, denounce every sound. If a dog barks in the distance, address it so that it is not mistaken for anything paranormal. When you speak to ask questions speak up so that there is no question it is you.

Best Time for Ghostly Encounters - Ghost Hunter's Guide
"Historically, the most active for ghost phenomena are between 9 PM and 6 AM" says Tom Ogden in The Complete Idiot's Guide to Ghosts and Hauntings. But, he notes that spirit behavior can happen at any time.
In The Paranormal Investigator's Handbook, editors Hope & Townsend recommend ghost vigils at night. This is not because ghosts are necessarily more active then, but because it's easier to observe unusual phenomena at night. You'll have fewer distractions.
Witch Patricia Telesco observes in Ghosts, Spirits and Hauntings, "Ghosts are more readily seen and contacted at midnight (the time in between day and night), and on the anniversary of their death."
We've encountered ghosts during the daytime as well as after dark. We prefer the hours around dusk through early evening, but in some cases - such as our investigation of The Myrtles Plantation - activity increased dramatically after 8:30 PM
There's less solar interference after sunset. Just as distant radio stations are easier to pick up at night, ghosts can create more dramatic effects with less energy after the sun goes down.
We also believe in the popular idea that between times are excellent for ghost research. Perhaps a door opens between the worlds when conditions are slightly unstable.
The between times include dusk and dawn, and both the Equinoxes and the Solstices, when the seasons change. Since Halloween (Samhain) is the traditional end of the agricultural year, many more hauntings occur on that night. We've had good luck at the opposite end of the agricultural calendar, at the last day of April.
And, we've heard increased reports around the end of the calendar year, at the end of December and start of January.
Some people believe that it's easiest to contact the other side while the clock is chiming midnight, another between time.
When you're planning an investigation, find out when others have experienced anything odd at that location. We've heard few stories from normal morning hours, or even early afternoon. Generally, manifestations occur after 3 PM, and most are after dark.
Keep a diary of your encounters with ghosts. See if there is any pattern to hauntings that you witness. If so, it may be a characteristic of the ghosts. Or, you may have heightened sensitivity to the paranormal during certain times.
Compare this pattern with planetary hours - mentioned above - and your biorhythms, too. Every factor, no matter how unlikely, must be considered.
No matter what rules or patterns you establish for your research, there will always be exceptions. However, ghost hunting is still trial-and-error for most of us. No one can say with certainty that one hour is always better than another for your research.
Keep testing and comparing results with others, even if you think that you've found a consistent pattern. We're far from knowing what causes hauntings, and your information could be part of a breakthrough discovery that will help all ghost researchers.

You know you're a ghost hunter if...
-You have more photos of ghosts than you do of family photos.
-You hang out on a ghost message board more then any other place on the net
-You talk to a brown out.
-You know you're a ghost hunter when your car has a bumper sticker that reads: I'd Rather Be Ghost hunting!
-You are more afraid of the living than you are of the dead
-You're the only one in the photo shop who gets excited over "bad" pictures
-Your coolest ghost photo is framed and hanging in the hallway with your family photos
-99.99% of your bookmarks on the internet are ghost related.
-You invite friends over to watch home movies and they see your last three investigations. (Film of an empty room for 3 hours.)
-Your company stops and stares at the Sony Night cam aimed at the bed in the spare bedroom and --you have to tell them it isn't what they think it is.
-You apologize to the ghost for getting scared because you thought it was a human.
-You sit at your computer and look at the reflections in the screen to see if there is anyone' behind you
-You sleep with a camera next to your bed, just in case
-You find a EMF detector next to the remote for the TV.
-Your kid says they have an imaginary friend, and out come the cameras, tape recorders, camcorders
-At an event you film the ceiling and places where there are no people
-You spend as much time looking at the negatives, as you do the prints.
-You spend more time with dead people than the living
-You're watching scary movies with your family and someone asks "Can ghosts really do that?" and you actually have an answer.
-Attending a family reunion is a trip to the family plot
-Your friends tell you not to get involved in this stuff, because you may end up having a ghost possess you!
-Your newest electronic toy is an EMF Detector!
-You sit at the office all day staring at a mini web cam of some deserted boat's engine room waiting for that "ONE PICTURE" instead of getting any of your work done.
-You have more recordings of EVP’s than you do of your favorite music
-You're the only one at Uncle Bob's funeral with an EMF meter
-You've been chased away from the Amityville house after disturbing a family barbeque in the backyard
-UPS now delivers your new equipment to the office rather than your home so you don't have to explain to your wife why you need another ghost detector.
-You have more photography equipment than a Japanese tourist
-You get a new camera and the first thing you do is get rid of the strap.
-You are waiting for someone to ask, "What is the most Haunted Place on Earth?"
-You take a picture of your entire family and ask any deceased relatives to join in the picture
-You spend all your free time in haunted buildings
-You refuse to make friends with people who are skeptics.
-You keep rewinding that part on "3 men and a baby" to try to prove that isn't a cardboard cut-out of Ted Danson.

Ghost Hunter Phobia’s
If you have more than one or two of these phobia’s it might make it hard to be an effective ghost hunter
Achluophobia: Fear of darkness
Amychophobia: Fear of scratches or being scratched
Autodysomophobia: Fear of one that has a vile odor
Blennophobia: Fear of slime
Bogyphobia: Fear of the bogeyman
Brontophobia: Fear of thunder and lightning
Cacophobia: Fear of ugliness
Catoptrophobia: Fear of mirrors
Chiraptophobia: Fear of being touched
Coimetrophobia: Fear of cemeteries
Demonophobia: Fear of demons
Eremophobia: Fear of being alone
Leukophobia: Fear of the color white
Noctiphobia: Fear of the night
Ophthalmophobia: Fear of being stared at
Osmophobia: Fear of smells or odors
Phasmophobia: Fear of ghosts
Phonophobia: Fear of noises or voices
Placophobia: Fear of tombstones
Pneumatiphobia: Fear of spirits
Psychrophobia: Fear of cold
Satanophobia: Fear of Satan
Sciophobia: Fear of shadows
Selenophobia: Fear of the moon
Tremophobia: Fear of trembling
Xenophobia: Fear of strangers

If you’re a ghost and you have these phobia’s, the afterlife may not be the most pleasant place for you.

Athazagoraphobia: Fear of being forgotten
Autophobia: Fear of being alone or of oneself
Aviophobia: Fear of flying
Blennophobia: Fear of slime
Claustrophobia: Fear of enclosed spaces
Ecclesiaphobia: Fear of churches
Hadephobia: Fear of hell
Hagiophobia: Fear of saints or holy things
Helminthophobia: Fear of worms
Isolophobia: Fear of solitude, being alone
Isopterophobia: Fear of termites
Metathesiophobia: Fear of changes
Molysmophobia: Fear of dirt or contamination
Necrophobia: Fear of death
Photophobia: Fear of light
Poinephobia: Fear of punishment
Satanophobia: Fear of Satan
Seplophobia: Fear of decaying matter
Taphephobia: Fear of being buried alive
Thanatophobia: Fear of death or dying
Uranophobia: Fear of heaven

Rules for a safe but scary Halloween Haunt
1. When it appears that you have killed the monster, NEVER check to see if it's really dead.
2. Never read a book of demon summoning aloud, even as a joke.
3. Do not search the basement, especially if the power has gone out.
4. If your children speak to you in Latin or any other language which they should not know, you should be very concerned. This also applies to kids who speak with somebody else's voice.
5. When you have the benefit of numbers, NEVER pair off and go alone.
6. As a general rule, don't solve puzzles that open portals to Hell.
7. Never stand in, on, or above a grave, tomb, or crypt. This would apply to any other house of the dead as well.
8. If you're searching for something which caused a loud noise and find out that it's just the cat, GET THE HECK OUT!
9. If appliances start operating by themselves, do not check for short circuits; just get out.
10. Do not take ANYTHING from the dead.
11. If you find a town which looks deserted, there's probably a good reason for it. Don't stop and look around.
12. Don't fool with recombinant DNA technology unless you're sure you know what you're doing.
13. If you're running from the monster, expect to trip or fall down at east twice, more if you are female. Also note that, despite the fact that you are running and the monster is merely shambling along, it's still moving fast enough to catch up with you.
14. If your companions suddenly begin to exhibit uncharacteristic behavior such as hissing, fascination for blood, glowing eyes, increasing hairiness, and so on, run for your life!
15. Stay away from certain geographical locations, some of which are listed here: Amityville, Elm Street, Transylvania, Nilbog (you're in trouble if you recognize this one), anywhere in Texas where chainsaws are sold, the Bermuda Triangle, or any small town in Maine.
16. If your car runs out of gas at night on a lonely road, do not go to he nearby deserted-looking house to phone for help. If you think that it is strange you ran out of gas because you thought you had most of a tank, shoot yourself instead. You are going to die anyway, and most likely be eaten.
17. Beware of strangers bearing tools. For example: chainsaws, staple guns, hedge trimmers, electric carving knives, combines, lawnmowers, butane torches, soldering irons, band saws, or any devices made from deceased companions.
18. If you find that your house is built upon a cemetery, now is the time to move in with the in-laws. This also applies to houses that had previous inhabitants who went mad or committed suicide or died in some horrible fashion, or had inhabitants who performed satanic practices.
19. Dress appropriately. When investigating a noise downstairs in an old house, women should not wear a flimsy negligee. And carry a flashlight, not a candle.
20. Do not mention the names of demons around open flames, as these can flare suddenly. Be especially careful of fireplaces in this regard.
21. Do not go looking for witches in the Maryland countryside.

Highly Recommended Ghost Detection Equipments ( Browse & Buy ) :
In order to take pictures of ghosts, you have to find them first. And best way is with equipment proven to be effective in registering them.

  • Air Ion Counter
    This device measures positive and negative ions in the air. Ghosts can cause a lot of positive ions because they give off high amounts of electromagnetic discharges.


  • Bags
    These should preferably be special plastic ones with zips, used to contain any material evidence that is found.


  • Barometer
    Some ghost hunters believe that paranormal activity can affect barometric pressure so it may be useful to take one.


  • Candles and Matches
    These are essential items especially if your flashlight and equipment stop working. Some ghost hunters believer that ghost energy can drain equipment energy and candles should be taken as a back up.


  • Full Spectrum Video Camera


  • Regular Camera & Infrared Camera
    A 35mm camera with black and white film and/or infrared film is very useful for capturing any pictures. Ensure that you have plenty of film. For best results use a film speed of no less than 200. A speed of 800 may produce better results although it will be very grainy. It is also important that your camera has flash either its own or slave flash. Have all the film developed by experts and don't forget a tri-pod to avoid camera shake.


  • Film
    Electromagnetic discharges can affect film and it may need to be replaced. Therefore it is important to ensure that plenty of spare rolls are accessible. Use 200 or 400 possibly 800 speed film, this will provide the best photographs.


  • Compass
    A compass is not only very useful for navigation it is also great for picking up electromagnetic forces. A compass will react to any magnetic or electrical stimulus that may be out of the ordinary. For this reason it is probably better to avoid an electronic compass instead use the needle points north kind.


  • Digital Recorder & Olympus Digital Voice Recorder
    These are very useful and they are quickly becoming the item of choice for obtaining electronic voice phenomenon results.


  • Olympus Digital Voice Recorder VN-4100
    Record up to 144 hours of uninterrupted audio in LP mode.


  • Pro EVP Listener
    So far as we know EVP can only be heard by playing magnetic recordings. But how did they get there, especially since no one heard anything at the time the recording was made? The eSmog Scout Pro EVP Listener converts magnetic signals directly into their audible counterpart… allowing anyone to listen to magnetic signals as they occur. Of course, it can be very useful for tracing man-made EMF from wiring and appliances and because 50/60 Hz fields have distinctive and recognizable sounds, it is easy to distinguish them from less ordinary sources.
    Detects AC magnetic fields like an EMF meter and converts them to the equivalent sound. You can easily hear the different frequencies and distinguish the strength of the fields. Sound is loud enough that you could even put eSmog Scout in your shirt pocket and still easily hear it, leaving your hands free. Helps find source of a field quickly.


  • Dowsing Rods
    Some researchers feel that the use of dowsing rods can help to pick up ghosts.


  • EMF Detector
    These detectors can pick up electronic fields over different frequencies. Disruptions in electronic fields could possibly mean ghosts.


  • Ghost Detector - Trifield Natural EMF Meter
    The Grand Daddy of Ghost meters


  • EMF200 Gauss Meter
    Just turn it on and get accurate and reliable readings


  • Extra Batteries
    These are essential because ghosts are thought to be electromagnetic and this can cause batteries to run down quite quickly. Extra batteries will be essential for all of the ghost hunting equipment that needs it.


  • Flash Lights
    Always have bright flash lights (usually 3 or 4) and extra batteries.


  • First Aid Kit
    It is always useful to have a first aid kit.


  • Ghost Catcher (AKA Spirit Wind Chime)
    These act in the same way as a normal wind chime, but as long as they are strategically placed away from drafts and wind, the theory is that it is a ghost that will make the chime work.


  • Small Windchimes
    Some researchers claim that breezes sometimes accompany ghosts. Windchimes should be placed in areas where the ghost is thought most likely to appear and of course out of the wind or drafts. This is a simple system that can alert investigators to photograph the area.


  • Headset Communications
    When operating as a team of three or more people, headset communicators are useful for staying in contact when spread out. Headset communicators, unlike their counterpart the walkie talkie allow the user to have their hands free to use other equipment such as cameras.


  • Hydrometer
    This device is useful for picking up any changes in air humidity.


  • Infrared Thermal Scanner
    These devices accurately pin point cold spots, thus saving on time and infrared film. Excellent for use in outside investigations. Prices range from $300 to $500. A non essential but useful item.


  • Microphone
    A good microphone is essential for picking up electronic voice phenomena.


  • Mobile Phone
    These are useful in case of an emergency they can also be affected by the presence of strange activity.


  • Motion Detectors/Alarms
    These devices are good for sensing movement when there should be none. One sensor can easily monitor an entire hallway or room. it is an ideal tool for indoor investigations.


  • Night Vision Equipment
    Night Vision scopes can be very useful. Cheap night vision adapters are available that will attach the scopes to video cameras. However Night Vision Equipment can be expensive. Choose monocular or binocular equipment. Binocular are a good choice because they add the benefit of depth perception.


  • Night Vision Video Camera
    This device is similar to combining a video camera with a night vision scope and allows the recording of light not normally visible to the naked eye. A good investigative tool.


  • Notebook
    Always keep records of times and events, this is very useful for documenting the investigation and especially if the study is to be replicated. Pens and pencils are also essential.


  • Red Cellophane
    This is a useful material for covering the lenses of flashlights in order to prevent the light from being too blinding.


  • Spot Lights
    These small battery powered spot lights help at night when setting up and taking down cameras and other equipment. They can also be used for safety and to get a better view of the surrounding terrain at night. Some of the most useful ones sit on the ground but have swivels on the lights enabling them to be set to different angles.


  • Talcum Powder
    This is a useful substance for capturing footprints or handprints. Sprinkle it around on the ground around where the investigation is taking place.


  • Tape Recorder
    A good tape recorder and an external static free microphone should be in use at all times during a ghost hunt. Although nothing may be heard during the investigation there is a phenomenon called EVP (electronic voice phenomenon) whereby spirit voices have been known to appear on tape later after being reviewed. Ensure the use of brand new tapes when recording.


  • Thermal Imaging Scopes
    This device allows you to actually see what your thermal scanner detects. Should there be a cold spot, this infrared technology makes it possible to see the shape and size of the cold pot. Unfortunately this is still quite expensive equipment.


  • Remote Infrared (IR) Thermometer
    Laser pointer for pinpoint accuracy


  • Thermometer
    Rapid drops in temperature has often been associated with the presence of a ghost. As with the compass the old fashioned mercury filled, red-line thermometer is probably better than its electronic counterpart. A good thermometer can detect changes in room temperature quickly and where electromagnetic forces have been reported, an electronic device might fail or be wrongly affected.


  • Video Camera
    This piece of equipment allows events to be captured as they are happening.


  • Walkie-Talkies
    These devices allow you to communicate with your ghost hunting party. If you are investigating a house and you have people scattered all over, walkie-talkies allow you to keep in touch.


  • Watch
    An essential piece of equipment for recording the time when the events happen.


  • Mel Meter & Mel-KII Hybrid Digital


  • EM Pump
    Creates a small EM field that changes in frequency from .2 to 256 Hz.; creating a type of EM white noise.


  • GWS-100 / Deluxe Power MP3 Folding Speaker


  • Simple Energy Meter


  • Control Object
    This is a small object such as a coin that is placed on a piece of white paper, which in turn is placed on a table or where it will not be disturbed. A pencil circle is drawn around the coin so that it's exact location is recorded. The coin and paper are then left and then re-examined at the end of the ghost hunt to see if the coin has moved. If it has, then this could indicate some strange activity. Ensure no-one can accidentally move the coin or you will obtain false results.

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