Ghost Hunting Tips



I've been asked by many people to create a page of "Ghost Hunting Tips", as well as explaning how I "hunt" ghosts. I'm sure that many, many "traditionalists", weaned on "The Correct Protocol" will be horrifed at my thots and ideas. I write this from a Common Sense approach, and tell you what works for ME. If you don't agree with what i've written, please DON'T send me any poison pen letters! No one is holding a gun to your head, telling you that you "must follow this"!


EQUIPMENT - The most important thing is a camera. If you use 35mm, you're gonna spend a lot of $$$ for film development. That's why i highly recommend a (GASP!) digital camera. (Pls don't get me started on that "dust" BS!). The higher the megapixel count, the sharper the photos will be if you enlarge 'em. For a long time, i used a 3-MP camera; i now use a 9-MP.

An EMF meter comes in handy for detecting the presence of spirits, but it's NOT an infallible guide. There are many brands out there (and i own several); the best one i've found is the "Trifield Meter". It's also the most costly, selling for about $150. (But, if you're serious about this subject, THAT'S the one to get! Don't waste your money on cheaper ones - they're just not that sensitive).

Don't waste your money on an infrared thermometer; i DID, unless you're really interested in "cold spots". The reason is that, since (according to accepted theory), ghosts "feed" on energy, an area will be colder as they "feed" on it. You don't need a meter to tell you that it's colder; it's only an indication that they're present. The exception to this was if you want to "scientifically" measure the temperature difference.

If you want to get into Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP), i highly suggest that you get a DAT (digital audio tape) recorder; the voice quality will be MUCH better.

For video, use a camcorder that has (infrared) "Night Vision".........you can buy these (as well as DAT recorders) relatively inexpensive on Ebay (that's where i got mine!). Don't forget a tripod!

Miscellaneous stuff would be a flashlight, bug spray, and pepper spray (for any dangerous animals/people that you might encounter). From a metaphysical standpoint, do NOT eat before (or during) a ghost hunt. As the food digests, your body becomes sluggish and less psychically sensitive. One NJ group makes a big deal out of the fact that they go to Dunkin' Donuts before a hunt.........imho, that's THE worst possible thing you can do!!!!!

If you know any people who are psychically sensitive to the presence of ghosts, bring 'em along! Avoid the hysterical types, like Yvette Fielding (of Most Haunted) -- they will add negativity to the hunt (as well as pissing you off!).


Ok, you've got everything you need. Now what? Let's look at cemeteries first.

I recommend going there at dusk, as you can acclimate yourself to the "lay of the land" before it gets dark. Make sure that the cemetery gates aren't locked at sunset! I've found that older areas of cemeteries are best. NEVER, EVER GO ALONE!!!!!!! (This is a safety measure).

I (and many other "hunters") have found it helpful to say (out loud) something like this -- "If there is anyone here, please put your image on my equipment. Tell me your name, give me a message, or communicate something to me. I come here with the utmost respect for you; not to harm you in any way. I believe that you exist -- please make yourself known to me on my equipment". You might feel foolish doing this but, believe me, it WORKS!

Slowly walk thru an area, watching and listening to the EMF meter (being careful not to trip over any small stones or fall into any animal holes!). If the needle starts to go up (or up and down), start taking LOTS of pix (using flash) where it "feels right". As you go on more and more "hunts", be aware of subtle energies around you. For instance, if you feel your hair, arms, and/or back "tingling", this is your body chakras (energy centers) opening up, and a damn good indication that there is a ghost/spirit in the location!

If you're using a digital camera, don't be stingy on using photos -- i often shoot as many as 200 - 300 on ONE hunt! You can always erase the memory card later.

As time goes on, and you open your "psi senses" to spirits, you may find that you don't need a meter..........just start shooting where it "just feels right", not worrying about how many pix you use up. Be careful that you don't take any photos of lites on nearby houses, buildings......even reflective street signs or cars passing by. (I NEVER take pictures pointing toward a road).

If you feel so inclined, set a DAT recorder on a stone, making sure the area is quiet (no cars passing by) and turn the recording volume at MAX. Walk away from the recorder, so that it doesn't pick up any sounds that YOU might make! If you want to shoot video, set your camcorder on "NightVision", mount it on a tripod and, again, point it where it "feels right".

Again, when it "feels right", thank the spirits (again, OUT LOUD) for impressing themselves on your equipment (even if you find out later that they DIDN'T), and leave.

This shows respect for the "people" you might've come in contact with.

When you get home, display your pictures on a computer screen. If you DO get something, try to rule out any "natural explanation" (street lights, etc); You may have to re-visit the site to check things out. Watch the video; listen to the tape (preferably with headphones). If you find anything, isolate and copy it.

The above is also true for buildings. However, if the building is very old, watch out for weak floors, and structurally unsound walls, etc. If the phenomena is isolated to a certain room, (obviously!) concentrate on THAT one!

Well, those are the "basics" -- please let me know if i've left out anything, pls let me know.

Happy Hunting!

Norm