What is the difference between a "ghost hunt" and a "ghost investigation"?
A ghost hunt is going to place where no activity has ever been reported and trying to capture evidence something. An investigation is going into an area where some type of activity has been reported and trying to (a) find out what is causing the activity and (b) helping whatever it is "move on".
Hints
1. Check out the area in daylight so you are familiar with the area. This cannot be stressed too much. Make notes in your notebook about object that you may fall over or holes that you might step into. An area look totally different in the dark as compared to daylight, so make good notes. Also make notes of any strange feelings and where they were. Shoot up a roll of film to use as a reference for later and you never know what you might catch even in daylight hours.2. Make sure you are not trespassing. Look for signs, check with the local police to see if there are any local laws about being in cemeteries after dark. Let them know that you will be taking pictures and give them a date and time you will be there. Offer to supply them with a list of people who will be taking part. If you are asked to leave, do so as quickly as you can gather up your things.
3. Carry an Id, you may be asked by the police to prove who you are.
4. Carry out any trash that you might have caused and for good measure pick up any other trash that you see lying around.
5. Do not go alone. What if you are hurt and need help who will be there to go for help.
6. The best times seem to be between 9pm and 6am. Be sure to keep track of your time. Nothing will upset the police any faster than having you run over your set time by an hour.
7. Check the history
before you go. Not only through the local library but also through
older local residents if you can find them. Most will be glad to tell you
lots of stories if you will only ask.
8. Have everyone meet near the location and make decisions then as to who will be responsible for each piece of equipment and who will be a leader to speak to Police, reporters, etc.
9. As you enter the site ask for a blessing and/or protection for the group, this can be done as a group or privately. I don't know if it helps but it sure can't hurt.
10. Walk around the area for about 20 minutes before you really start with any equipment. This will give you a "feel" for the area and also introduce you to any spirits that my be present.
11. Open all film and tapes and load cameras and recorders and start shooting. Make notes of any strange feelings or emotions that you may feel while taking a shot. Make lots of notes.
12. Move around during the investigation. Don't stick to one spot, you will tend to become stale and not focused on your feelings.
13. When you are finished meet at one spot, check to make sure all are present and accounted for, take an equipment inventory to make sure you haven't left anything behind. Tell the human spirits not to follow you home and that all others must stay here in the name of God. Never hurts to be sure.
