Must-Have Equipment for Ghost Hunters
The Tools that Ensure a Successful Paranormal Investigation
Sep 11, 2008
It's no secret that ghost hunters love gadgets, but all of those electronics can get heavy and expensive. Experienced investigators often need to pare down to the essentials at sites where space is limited, but are unsure what to pack. Beginners are often confused about where to start. Here are a few items that no paranormal investigator should leave home without:
Digital Camera ($59 and up)
Photographs are essential to a paranormal investigation because they provide data that can be used to both identify and debunk a haunt. As camera technology progresses, the variety of digital cameras available grows exponentially. With so many choices, what type of camera is best for ghost hunting? The model with the highest resolution (megapixels) and ISO (light sensitivity) you can afford. High resolution means that you can capture greater detail and examine your shots more thoroughly. High ISO will allow you to capture images in low light without using a flash, which is often a necessity at historic sites trying to preserve fragile artifacts.
Audio Recorder ($19 and up)
Audio recordings have the ability to reveal sounds and voices not heard by investigator -- Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP). These phenomena are a strong form of research data used to confirm a haunt and to help identify its source. EVP can be captured using traditional tape recorders, microcassette recorders, and digital voice recorders. Most investigators opt for the digital variety because the recordings can be easily transferred to the computer for analysis and there is no need to buy a new cassette for each investigation.
Electromagnetic Field (EMF) Meter ($39 and up)
EMF meters are great for paranormal investigations because they can detect natural causes for suspected ghostly activity. High levels of electromagnetism can be produced by microwave ovens, power lines, and dimmer switches. Even low to moderate levels of EMF can cause people to feel paranoid, disoriented, and even have the sensation of being touched by unseen hands. Pinpointing the source of these fields can help rule out some claims of supernatural disturbance.
Sturdy Case or Backpack ($12 and up)
A heavy duty bag or case is recommended for transporting your gear. Many investigators rely on compact and lightweight pistol carrying cases because of their cushioned interior and locking handles. These can be purchased at sporting goods stores and major retailers such as K-Mart and WalMart. Other investigators prefer the comfort and portability of a padded backpack. The roominess of most backpacks allows the ghost hunter plenty of space for extra batteries, tapes, and other accessories.
Painters' Tape ($2 and up)
Rolls of blue painters' tape make a surprisingly helpful addition to your investigative tools. The tape can be used to label equipment to help identify later where its data was collected. It is handy for securing the perimeter of an investigation site (showing if doors have been opened, etc.) Painters' tape can also be used to make emergency repairs, say if a battery cover breaks on a piece of equipment, or to attach flashlights to video cameras.
These five items are essential to all paranormal investigators - experienced and novice alike. With an investment below $200, you can collect the data needed to perform a serious ghost hunt.
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