Ghost Hunting 101: Protecting yourself during a ghost hunt

Ghost Hunting 101:  Protecting yourself during a ghost hunt

One thing that gets quite a bit of discussion among ghost hunters is whether or not people need to be concerned with being harmed, injured, or influenced by paranormal entities.  While it’s unlikely that anyone is going to die from a run in with a ghost, sometimes bad things do happen. People occasionally get scratched, shoved or threatened during investigations.

Everyone has a different take on how to protect themselves. Many investigators wear jewelry or carry tokens they believe will help to guard them. Others recite prayers or go through various rituals before or during an investigation. Some people avoid saying or doing things to provoke anger from spirits (while others do this with the intention of forcing a response.)

There’s no hard proof that any of these things can stop negative activity from happening but I certainly don’t think it hurts. Sometimes the peace of mind created by a ritual can make a big difference. If you can relieve your fear, you are going to be a better investigator. If something makes you more confident, no matter how silly the ritual, it’s probably worth doing.

Ghost Hunting 101: Matrixing

Today I thought I’d talk a little about a term used a lot in ghost hunting-matrixing. (Sorry guys, I’m not talking about the movie.) Matrixing is our brain’s way of finding familiar shapes and images in patterns or objects. Our minds are designed to look for shapes we recognize so we know what we’re looking at. It’s the same basic principle behind staring at clouds and finding shapes in them. Our minds see what they want to see. It’s also the basis for a lot of those holy figures in cheese sandwich stories that keep popping up in the news. People figure if it looks like a face it must mean something. Even if that’s not always the case.

It's easy to find shapes in clouds.

While this can be pretty cool, it can actually be a problem when you’re ghost hunting. You will be looking at a picture or a video and suddenly you notice something out of place. You stare to figure it out. Before long it takes on human characteristics and you have yourself a ghost. At least that’s what it looks like. The truth is, most of the time these ghostly figures are completely random. So when were investigating, we have to learn how to discern what is real and what our minds see.

One of the most common causes of these images are reflections in glass. Glass has this weird quality that causes reflections to take on all kinds of shapes. Any image that appears in windows or mirrors should be studied VERY carefully to make sure the image is actually paranormal. My team tries to take multiple shots of each photo so we can compare what can be seen in every shot. If something appears in one shot, then disappears in the next, it’s a little more interesting. This technique also helps us identify light sources and other possible explanations.

The 'faces' in this photo aren't ghosts-they're smudges.

If something in a photo looks out of place, you should try and determine if it’s part of the object(s) in the photo. Are there tree branches outside or patterns on a wall that form it? If so, it’s probably not paranormal. A true ghost is going to look separate from its surroundings.

The best way to avoid matrixing is to not jump to conclusions. Take time to study every video and picture in question. Once you understand what matrixing it, it becomes much easier to spot and understand.

So tell me, have you ever seen an image in a picture or video that you just couldn’t explain?  

Ghost Hunting 101: The Importance of a Good Reputation

Everyone has a reputation. Some of them are good, others are, well not quite so good. But in any business or endeavor it’s important to build and maintain a reputation that’s positive. You never know who you are going to run into or who you might work with in the future.

I was reminded of this lesson last week while out shopping with another ghost hunter from my team. We ran into a fellow ghost hunter from another group and got chatting. He proceeded to tell us about several ghost hunting groups he's worked with in the past. He also told us his reasons for leaving each group. All his reasons had to do with the people he worked with. Many of them were, in his words, difficult, unprofessional, or just plain nuts. And he named names.

His casual conversation was really his way of warning us to avoid certain groups and people. And though I believe in giving everyone a fair chance, if one of those individuals contacts our group, I’m going to proceed with caution. I value my reputation and I don’t want to do anything to jeopardize it. If people respect you professionally it can open all kinds of doors. You certainly don’t want to go around closing doors just by being careless.

 So here are some tips to help you build and maintain a good reputation.

1. Treat everyone with respect. This should go without saying but some people forget that the person waiting on you today could be your boss tomorrow.

2. Don’t act crazy, at least not in public. This is another no-brainer (or should be) but in a field with ghost, Bigfoot, and UFO enthusiasts running around there are plenty of odd individuals.

3. Run your group (or site, or whatever) like a business. If someone e-mails you, take the time to respond. Return phone calls. Be one time. Keep your word. And take the time to invest in business cards. They aren’t expensive.

4. Take initiative. Don’t sit around waiting for good things to happen. You have to go out and find opportunities. If people see you trying to get things done and working towards a goal, they’re going to think more highly of you.

5. Proof read any correspondence. If your website, advertisements, e-mails, or letters look like a kindergartner wrote them, no one will take you seriously.

6. Work on building relationships. Even after we investigate a site we try and keep in contact with the owners afterwards. I never want a client to feel like we abandoned them. And most of our investigations come from our clients referring us to other people so it has paid off well for us to keep in touch. Many of our previous clients have become friends and I love getting to work with them.

7. Be friendly. No one wants to be around someone who is constantly negative or complaining.

8.  Be a hard worker. Enough said.

9. Help other people out when you are able. Occasionally we take guests out on investigations and I love getting to teach them and work with them. The looks on their faces when we see or hear something strange is worth it every time.

10.  Be yourself. Nothing puts people off more than someone not acting genuine.

Feel free to add on with your own suggestions!

Ghost Hunting 101: Research

Anyone interesting in ghost hunting should know a little bit about doing research. It’s important to know what you’re dealing with and the history of a location can give you clues into understanding your evidence. Some people prefer to wait until after an investigation to do their research while others start weeks before. Either way is ok. It’s all about finding what works for you. But many people get lost during the research stage because they don’t know where to start.

One of the easiest ways to do research is right in front of you. Yep. It’s the internet. It’s an entire world of knowledge at your fingertips. You just have to use discernment in finding reputable information. Many newspapers and libraries offer online databases of articles. You may be able to find good information there. Many states also have online cemetery databases that can help you research birth and death dates (if you know where someone is buried.)

Even though many libraries provide online information, there is nothing quite like going in and talking to someone in person. Some libraries have their own archives that can be accessed simply by making an appointment. Try and make friends with the librarians and they may take some extra time to help point you in the right direction.

One of the best sources of information you can find is located at historical societies. They often collect old publications, maps, and letters. The people that work there are usually incredibly knowledgeable about the history of an area and most of them love having an opportunity to share their knowledge.

If you can’t find information about a specific person online, sometimes a visit to a cemetery can be useful. It is time consuming, but headstones can provide you with all sorts of information. As strange as it sounds, I’ve actually met people at cemeteries while doing research that were more than willing to share helpful information. You might be surprised at how many history nuts, archivists, and genealogists hang around old cemeteries.

Sometimes the best source of information is simply asking questions to the business or home owners where you are investigating. I try and interview as many people as possible before an investigation to find out as much as I can. Things like ‘who used to live there?’ ‘Did anyone die there?” or just “what do you know about that place?” can be great conversation starters.

When it comes to doing research you can’t be afraid to get your hands a little dirty. You’re sure to come out with a wealth of information and maybe even some new friends!

Do you have any techniques you use when doing research?

Ghost Hunting 101

Types of hauntings

Today I’m going to talk about the different types of hauntings. There are two basic types of hauntings that have several subcategories. It’s important for ghost hunters to be familiar with these terms because they come up a lot in discussion and can help us better understand the nature of each event.

The two main types of haunting are intelligent and residual

The first type is basically what it sounds like-some sort of spirit who shows signs of intelligence and interaction with the present world. This can include direct responses to questions, completing tasks asked of it, or commenting/responding to the people present.

A residual haunting is one where the spirit appears to have no knowledge of its surroundings. These types often include activity such as the repeating of a phrase or action, or movement that doesn’t make sense in the environment (walking into doors, climbing invisible stairs etc…) Many people believe these hauntings are simply a replaying of activities that occurred in the past.

Lets look at some of the other basic subcategories.

Many people believe that both human an inhuman spirits can interact with our world. A human spirit is someone who once lived and for whatever reason appears to still be hanging around. For the most part these spirits are completely harmless. Sometimes they startle people when noticed but for the most part it appears to be accidental.

Inhuman spirits are incredibly rare. Many people feel that demons, elementals, and other dark entities are to blame for these hauntings. If one of these things are hanging around they are usually quick to let people know they are there. Some signs that a haunting may be inhuman in nature include the movement of large objects, unexplainable injuries to people in the location and a strong sulfur smell. If you feel you’ve come across something inhuman or dangerous while investigating I recommend seeking help in dealing with the problem because they can be dangerous and difficult to get rid of. In three years of investigating I’ve never come across something I felt fell into this category, though I’ve talked to enough people who have dealt with them to believe they are a possibility.

Another type of haunting that gets a lot of attention is poltergeist activity. This type of haunting is mostly limited to the movement or manipulation of objects. There are many theories to the cause of poltergeist activity but many of the explanations are based on little more than legend. Some people feel there is a link in poltergeist activity and psychic ability. They theorize that unconscious thought or stress triggers the movement of objects. There have been limited amounts of testing done on these theories though, making them little more than speculation.

Perhaps in a few more years with work and research investigators will be able to better understand the cause and logic behind hauntings. Until then, all we can do is try to understand them.

Have you ever experienced a haunting? If so, what category do you think it falls under?

Ghost Hunting 101

Now for the next installment in the Ghost Hunting 101 series!

Be prepared.

It sounds simple.  It should be simple. Somehow these things never really are though.

Here’s a basic list of some stuff you might want to bring on a ghost hunt:

- flashlights

- digital camera(s)

- notebook and a pencil/pen

-digital recorder(s)

-video camera(s)

-extra batteries

-EMF detector

-first aid kit

-extra clothes

-snacks

-outlet adapters

-tape

-scissors

-a bag or case to carry your equipment in

Along with just the stuff you physically bring, you also need to be mentally prepared for whatever you might encounter. Ghost hunters often experience a feeling of being drained and/or depressed following an investigation at an active location. It can last anywhere from a day or even for weeks in some cases. While the cause of this isn’t really understood, it can and does happen so you need to be ready for it. Many people chose to say a prayer or affirmation before each hunt to get themselves ready.

You should also get a lot of rest prior to going out because most hunts involving staying up all night. You don’t want to be falling asleep in the middle of an investigation.

Also be sure and have water and snacks on hand. It’s important to not get dehydrated while you’re working and even if you aren’t use to eating at night, all the physical activity involved is going to make you hungry sooner or later.

Try and have a good understanding of what you are looking for before you begin any hunt. Do the claims involve people seeing apparitions? Are objects moving? Do the people feel they are in danger? There are different kinds of hauntings and being familiar with them will make your job easier.

Also, it’s important to be familiar with layout of wherever you investigating. If it’s a large area, create a map so you don’t get lost!

Everyone’s style is a little different and everyone has different needs. The important thing is that you are ready for whatever is thrown out at you!

Ghost Hunting 101

People matter

Everyone who decides to ghost hunt has to deal with people. A lot. There are fellow investigators, clients, curious people, government officials, and occasional reporters to deal with. If you aren’t good at dealing with people, you better learn fast if you want to go ghost hunting. Even though some people can be difficult at times, it’s really one of the best parts of doing this. You get to meet all kinds of people. I’ve been able to find some great friendships doing this and I learn something from just about every person I meet. Today I want to focus just on the people you work with the most-your team.

When you first start working with someone, it’s important to find out as much as you can about them and build a strong relationship. Trust is really important and that can only come with time. Many groups hold regular meetings where they discuss their ideas and beliefs, and just spend time together. It’s good to spend time with people doing things other than ghost hunting because it lets you get a better idea of who they are. Before you decide to jump into an investigation with someone, you should know a bit about them. Here are some questions you might want to ask before jumping into the ring with these people.

Do you believe in ghosts?

It sounds a little strange, but there are plenty of investigators who go out trying to disprove the existence of ghosts.

What makes you want to investigate?

Many people start hunting after having some sort of experience. Others are just curious. Find out what makes them tick.

Do you believe in UFO’s? Angels/demons? Bigfoot?

You want to know what sort of things interests your team members. You never know when the will want to drag you out hunting for something other than ghosts.

How much time do you expect to spend doing this?

Some teams go out every week, others only once or twice a year. You need to have an idea of the time commitment involved before starting.

What are you afraid of?

There’s a good chance you will run into a few phobias ghost hunting. Snakes, bats, spiders, other creepy crawlies, and heights all come with the territory along with the stuff that goes bump in the night. If someone starts freaking out, it’s good to be prepared.

These are just a few starter questions to get the ball rolling. Keep asking questions. Keep digging.

You should also be aware that there are several types of groups that ghost hunt. They all use different strategies and techniques. No two are the same. You need to find one that best fits your needs.

Types of ghost hunting groups:

The disbelievers

These groups believe that ghosts don’t exist and spend their time trying to find explanations for ghost sightings and other paranormal phenomenon.

The sort-of scientists

This group tries to employ scientific methods to measure and understand the paranormal.

The psychics

These people ghost hunt for personal reasons-they use psychics and spiritual methods. Most of their experiences are felt rather than seen.

The thrill seekers

Looking for a quick thrill, these groups usually go out with the hopes of getting a good scare.

The entertainers

Out to find things to thrill the public. An exciting video or sound clip is what they are out to seek.

Many groups are a combination of what I’ve listed. Everyone has different reasons for ghost hunting and different methods to get results. In the end it’s about finding what works for you.

Ghost Hunting 101

Here's the first installment of my series on ghost hunting for beginners. Check back next week for the next part!

Location is Everything.

A great way to get started ghost hunting is by choosing an interesting location. You can go with a spot you know it haunted or a place no ones ever been. I look for spots with historical significance or interesting claims of activity.

Be sure and research your location before conducting your hunt. Use the internet. Use the library. Visit local historical societies. They are great wealth of information and normally very willing to help out. A simple Google search of haunted locations in your city is a good starting point.

Be willing to talk to business owners about the possibility of conducting a ghost hunt. Many are more than willing to let ghost hunters in with the hopes of gaining some publicity.

Get permission from the property owner before embarking on a hunt. Never trespass on private property. Also be sure and use consent and liability forms for your investigations. (I'll post more on these in the future.) You don't want to risk a law suit.

Many places are beginning to offer their own ghost hunts. These can be great networking events for beginner and a lot of fun. The problem with these (besides the cost involved) is that they often take large number of people, making it difficult to actually capture activity.

Some parks (depending on where you live) may be open after dark. These are great beginning locations because they give you the freedom to explore a large area. Contact your local parks department to find out if any of the parks in your area are open at night.

Also be sure and take someone with you every time you go. Injuries can and do happen and you don’t want to be stuck alone all night if you are hurt.

Find the best location you can and have fun!