PARANORMAL EXPERT ~ DAVID ROUNTREE ON ORBS...

SPIRIT LIGHTS???
First of 2 taken at EVERGREEN CEMETERY.
These 2 photos were taken one right after the other.
I was standing completely still with
the stablizer feature activated.

ORBS In Motion???

Greetings Ghosties,

Many of you are already fans of David Rountree's BLOG at GHOSTVILLAGE. It is in my opinion, one of the best paranormal Blogs out there. David recently wrote this fantastic article about the hotly contested debate of: ORBS.

He was kind enough to allow me to share it with you all!

Check out his GV BLOG:

http://www.ghostvillage.com/ghostcommunity/blog/ghost_hunter_1954/index.php

As the battle continues to rage concerning the validity of orbs and their relationship to paranormal activity, new techniques and devices are being invented every day to try and “clear up the picture.”

It is generally accepted by all serious researchers that the majority of orbs captured with digital cameras is created by the cameras response to a foreign object VERY close to the lens. This holds true for dust, pollen, particulate matter of any kind, as well as liquids, although with liquids there has to be a situation called neutral velocity involved. So it is very easy to artificially create orbs and photograph them.By carefully experimenting with my camera (a Sony MAVICA) I have been able to determine that in order for dust to print as an orb, it HAS to be within four inches of the lens. The solution to eliminating false orbs from your photographs is quite simple. Fashion a hood for your camera that will keep dust out of the four inch corridor. Sound easy? It certainly is.

The people at GhostGadgets even have a how to page on how to make your own device, something they call the DEVA or Dust Eliminating Video Apparatus. Of course it will also work for still cameras as well.

A lot of people ask me, or in some cases they just tell me that you cannot tell a paranormal orb from a dust particle, or even that paranormal orbs do not exist at all. The people who say this have obviously NEVER performed any orb research other than reading what the critics say, who by the way have also not performed any orb research. If they would have, they would have found that some orbs defy the dust/particle explanation.

For example:

Any orb that is in motion and leaves a trail on a digital camera and clearly changes direction in the photo is not a dust particle. Whatever it is, the orb is moving faster than the speed of the digital camera, which is 1/30th of a second. That is indicative of an incredibly high velocity, not sustainable inside a building by air or convection currents.

So what is it? Well we don’t know for sure, but we know what it ISN’T.Another example would be to have an orb partially obscured by something in the background. We have captured a few of these photos over the years with both film and digital cameras. Since the orb is appearing beyond the 4 inch event field, it is impossible for it to be dust or any foreign particulate mass, in the natural sense, to our knowledge. What it may be is open to conjecture. I have a theory that it is the result of weak plasma being bombarded with the photons from a flash. In cases where they are captured without a flash, it is indicative of the plasma radiating light at a lower frequency such as in the infrared range, or at a higher frequency, such as the ultraviolet range of light. We know this because the digital camera sees well into both of these spectrums, while the human eye does not. For film users, it means a special light sensitive film must be used, either for IR or UV, which including processing, it very expensive.If we eliminate the use of digital cameras, we are eliminating a valuable tool. What we need to do instead is employ devices that will eliminate false orb captures.

The fine researchers at Ghostgadgets have done exactly that. They have also amassed some valuable data on their own research on their site. Here is the link for those who are interested: http://www.ghostgadgets.com/_knowledge/orbs.html

They have also included examples of dust orbs as well as orbs which defy the “dust” explanation. Also to their credit, the text is written in lay terms so even beginners will understand the idea and concepts presented.The instructions and material list for making your own DEVA have been graciously supplied, and have been posted since 2004. They are located here:http://www.ghostgadgets.com/_howto/DEVA.html

By employing this device you will be eliminating dust orbs from your photographs. Any orb that appears will be due to some other explanation.Ghostgadgets also have an article on EMF meters that EVERY investigator should read. http://www.ghostgadgets.com/_knowledge/emfexplained.html

These guys have put down the words to explain exactly what you are doing when you take an EMF reading. They also have a comparison page to help you decide which meter is best for your application and experience.http://www.ghostgadgets.com/_knowledge/emfmeters.html

These guys have a quality website, print factual information based on independent research, and offer it up to the public for peer review. These guys are doing what we all should be doing, but unfortunately only a precious few are following the lead.Kudos to Ghostgadgets.com!

THE TRUTH ABOUT 'ORBS'

THE TRUTH ABOUT
'ORBS'

From GhostGadgets.com

Orbs are a very controversial item in the paranormal investigation field. The hard fact is that most, if not all, "orbs" are caused by water droplets, dust, snow, rain, etc...A common misconception about dust orbs is that it is dust actually in the camera or on the lens. This isn't true, in fact, dust orbs are caused by air-born dust particles directly in front of the camera lens. Below is an in-depth article on photographic/video analysis and contamination factors that cause false-positive orbs. Please note that the following applies for any camera with a flash (35mm & digital), and all nightshot video cameras.

True Anomaly - GhostGadgets retains Copyright

Diagram 1

Point "A" represents the camera lens's inverted focal point (the point that an object must be past to be in-focus), and "B" represents the way light travels into the lens. The dust particles that are closer than point "A" will be out-of-focus, and appear as false-positive dust orbs.

Diagram 1 is a representation of how dust in front of the camera lens appears orb-like when a flash is used. "B" represents how light travels through the camera lens, and "A" represents the focal point of the lens, or the point objects need to be past in order to be in focus. As you can see, there are dust particles closer to the lens than point A, therefore the dust will appear out-of-focus, as seen in Diagram 2.

When the flash fires (Diagram 1), light is reflected off the dust, back into the camera lens, causing the dust to be illuminated. Because of the angle of the flash and the camera lens, the closer the flash is to the lens, the more prone it will be to dust orbs. The same applies for using nightshot video cameras, the IR light reflects off the out-of-focus dust, causing them to look like "orbs" or plasmoids.

I want to emphasize the fact that orb-causing dust is floating in the air in front of the camera lens, and is not actually on the lens itself. It seems that many people think that wiping their lens clean before each photo session will solve the dust-orb problem, but this is entirely false. The truth is the dust is in the air, floating close to the camera lens (within about 6 inches normally), and there is no way to solve the problem through lens or site cleaning.

Diagram 2

Point "P" represents the distance the dust particles are away from the camera lens, and "A" again represents the camera lens's inverted focal point (the point that an object must be past to be in-focus).This diagram shows how dust particles become out of focus as they get closer to the camera lens.

Some common characteristics of dust orbs in photographs may be showing some sort of nucleus, elongation around the central axis towards the edges of the photos, a rectangular or octagonal shape, but is not limited to these. Elongation around the central axis towards the edge of the photo is caused by a lens curvature error known as "Coma", cameras with very small lenses and short focal lengths (such as digital cameras) are more prone to coma than other cameras with longer focal length lenses, such as SLR cameras.

Orbs of a rectangular or octagonal shape are caused because of a phenomena that can be defined as:
"When an object with a similar shape as the aperture of the camera lens is brought out-of-focus, the object will begin to take the shape of the aperture".

In other words, if the aperture of the camera is an octagon (the aperture is the hole that opens to let light through the lens), an out-of-focus dust orb will begin to take the shape of an octagon, particularly towards the center of the image. Another common phenomena that is often mistaken for something paranormal is called lens "Flare", and occurs when a bright light source (most often the Sun) reflects off a portion of the lens, and creates "ghost" images (not really ghosts, but internal reflections) of the aperture of the camera. Generally, flare can be ruled out of most photos taken at night, but can be a problem with shooting pictures during the day.

There is nothing paranormal about the dust orb phenomena, it is natural to any camera with a flash and any video with a light source that isn't in front of the camera (ie, infrared light, spotlights). It seems that many groups still consider dust orb photos to be paranormal, because they don't want to take the time to collect REAL anomalous data. What keeps these groups holding on to the dust orb as phenomena is the instant gratification they get by collecting hundreds of so-called "spirit orbs" in a single night of investigating.

The truth is no matter what the environment, there are always air-born particles in the air (except in a vacuum...) that can contaminate your data. You can sometimes even see the flash reflect off the dust particles when a picture is taken. Also, this phenomena isn't just limited to dust, it also applies to rain, water droplets, bugs, etc.

SOURCE:

GHOST GADGETS

*This is a highly educational website!!!

Double Rainbows, Red mists, and Orbs

Let me introduce myself...as this is my first post
I have lived in the Santa Cruz CA area now for 20 years and boy is it rich with legends, mystery and paranormal phenomena. From the Mystery Spot where gravity seems to cease, to the famed haunted Brookdale Lodge where all of Old Hollywoods' royalty would go to get-away, to having inspired none other than Mr.Hitchcock himself. Yep, both Psycho AND The Birds were from Santa Cruz. Alfred Hitchcock was so "intrigued" with the gothic architecture and folklore that he actually took up residence here.
Having seen spirits since i was 2, i was more than delighted to find paranormal phenomena captured on my 35mm film. It's like a window into the spirit world that i've been ridiculed for seeing my whole life. Finally some poosible proof...
It was a clear, dry day this past summer. I noticed outside my kitchen an enormous, full arching Double Rainbow in the sky. Having only seen this happen once before, i grabbed my camera to take some "artistic" pictures. I took a sequence of about 7 pictures. When i got the film back there were amazing anomalies. You can actually see 3 orbs come from the background to the forefront. As if that weren't enough... a bizarre red mist appears in 2 of the photos. It looks almost like a phantom...arms outstretched. In the last photo, the red mist seems to be exiting the picture frame from the bottom left corner! What a trip!!!!
Ofcourse i showed the pix to several people and someone suggested i mail them to a website like www.Coast-toCoast.com . I emailed them to a fantastic, resourceful website that is just stocked with paranormal pictures www.wintersteel.com . Check my pix at the bottom of the Photos page at

"It just gets Curiouser and Curiouser! " - Alice in Wonderland

PARANORMAL INVESTIGATIONS - FAQ'S - CREATE YOUR OWN DREAM TEAM

Great Archangel Michael
Archangel, defend us in battle,
be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the
devil.

May God rebuke our enemies, we humbly pray; and
do thou, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of
God, thrust into Hell the Adversary and all other evil
spirits who prowl about the world for the ruin of
souls.
Amen.





PARANORMAL INVESTIGATIONS - FAQ'S -
CREATE YOUR OWN DREAM TEAM

As we wind down our Series on Paranormal Investigations, I thought it would be neat to have a list of the most Frequently Asked Questions.

Having founded 6 Cents Investigations in 2005, I have learned thru both trial and error many of the mishaps of investigations. Sometimes, you might have personality clashes or strong differences of opinion as to HOW To investigate. If you joined in on some investigations, and it or the group in general, has left you with a negative experience...

*REMEMBER:
YOU HAVE OPTIONS

Consider beginning/founding your OWN group.
Now, while YOU may get to make many of the decisions... YOU will also find that you will need time to establish yourself and your team....
Develop YOUR reputation as a paranormal investigator/s.

It's always a great idea to develop *relationships* with other Teams for networking purposes.
I also believe that some teams, while having vastly different investigations styles, can actually compliment eachother quite nicely.

For example, a team made up of mostly scientists and techies can benefit from a team with Sensitives and/or Mediums, and vice versa. It is in my opinion, that you are more likeley to obtain results and evidence when a Medium is present. I believe that Ghosts/Spirits draw ENERGY from the Medium and this in turn helps that being to manifest. Also, Mediums quite often will sense the presence of different Astral Beings and can point photographers (or their own camera) in that direction.

For me a PARANORMAL DREAM TEAM would be 2 very different styles merging together.
An example of this in the paranormal media would be GHOSTHUNTERS (TAPS) and England's MOST HAUNTED. I would be very curious to view evidence gathered after such an investigation!

HOW SMALL... IS TOO SMALL????
If you have had NO luck in your area finding or resonating with a team then I suggest you CREATE your own. But as I have stated many times, DO YOUR RESEARCH first!!!!
Approach this as you would any other science. Go out with at least 1 other person.

DON'T ASSUME EVERTHING IS OR IS NOT PARANORMAL.....
By golly, PLEASE be prepared and/or open to the idea that you could be confronted with something nasty and unseen. Read about famous, documented cases, before you conduct your own investigations. I also HIGHLY suggest reading HOSTAGE TO THE DEVIL by Malachi Martin.
In my opinion, there is very GOOD reason for people to be wary of the paranormal.
You don't have to BELIEVE it but YOU SHOULD be AWARE...
And there's a difference between the 2.

FOOL'S RUSH IN
There's a very fine line between AWARENESS and being AFRAID.
It is certainly NOT my intention to scare you. But I would be remiss if I did not make you aware of the totality of what is involved and potentially at stake in paranormal investigations. I hope that makes sense. I don't ask you to believe in or embrace EVERYTHING that I do...
I only ask that you fully EDUCATE yourself so that you can make INFORMED decisions.

WHERE ANGELS FEAR TO TREAD
One last thing...
PLEASE consider PRAYER before doing ANY types of investigations.
Honestly, what could it hurt???


GHOST INVESTIGATIONS 101 - FAQ'S

Adapted from:
LIST OF EQUIPMENT TO BRING
by Christine Parks

Your equipment can be as simple as a compass, basic thermometer, standard tape recorder with an external microphone and your basic 35mm camera and get the same results as someone who has an EMF meter, digital thermometer, digital recorder and fancy cameras.

Basic Starter Equipment List:

35mm Camera -
For trying to capture orbs, figures, mists, etc. and aids in documenting the investigation site and details.
Can be a disposable or a $30 instant camera.
Just a simple point and shoot will do just fine.
Remove straps and pull back hair
For best quality and results, don't forget tripods!

35mm Film -
Most ghost hunters carry two cameras; one loaded with each. Always buy good quality film!
400 to 800 speed
Black and White Film
Infrared Film-more expensive and must be kept cool.

Thermometer -
Drops in temperature are a common occurrence when a ghost is present. Spikes in the temperature are possible but not as frequent.
Your standard indoor/outdoor mercury thermometer may be slower but will work fine.
No batteries to replace or worry about dying during an investigation.

Compass -
A compass will react to any magnetic or electrical stimuli that are reported in haunting cases.
Also great for navigation.
No batteries to replace or worry about dying during an investigation.

Audio Recorder with external microphone & NEW Cassette Tapes -
This is for recording noises or voices that are inaudible at the time to human ears and making verbal notes.
You can pick one up at Wal-Mart or Radio Shack starting around $10.00
Always make sure you use new tapes, never record on an old tape!
Always make sure you use a separate external static free microphone.

Flashlights / Candles / Glo Sticks -
Depending on group preference, a red lens or red cellophane is used to prevent damage to light sensitive equipment such as camcorders with nightshot and to preserve the human eyes "night vision"
Candles can be used, but may be unreliable due to weather.
Glo sticks are safe and you don't need to worry about battery drain.
Never leave candles unattended, they may cause fire!

Batteries -
Batteries and lots more batteries for every piece of equipment you bring!

Notebook & Pens/Pencils -
Keep Case Notes, log records of events and personal journal information.

Wristwatch -
Logging records of events and durations of an occurrence.

Cell Phone -
Safety of your group should always be your number one concern!

*EDITORS NOTE - Cells are also extremely handy for organizing your hunt, and if people get separated before, during or after an investigation.

Area Map (If Possible) -
Always know the area and mark any areas that may be a safety hazard.

Identification -
In case the police show up and question your actions.

After you have gone on several investigations and decide that you are ready to invest more money and time into your new hobby, your equipment list will grow depending on areas that you are more interested in.

The Advanced Equipment List is the same as above plus a few added items that can range in price depending on the options you desire. The following items are not required but are nice to have on hand during and investigation.

More Advanced Equipment List:

Digital Camera -
For trying to capture orbs, figures, mists, etc. and aids in documenting the investigation site and details.
Great because you can see the pictures right away and have endless amount of picture taking ability.
Great money saving tools; just keep in mind that the pictures taken with them may not be considered hard evidence due to the lack of negatives.

Thermometers -
Indoor/Outdoor Digital thermometers and Infrared Thermal Scanners are the high tech ways to pin point abnormal cold or hot spots in the area.

Indoor/Outdoor Digital -
thermometers are better for using on the outdoor investigations. You can also get one that measure humidity as well.
Both are definitely something that you must work with before using in the field.

EMF(Electro-Magnetic Field) Detectors -
These devices can pick up electronic and magnetic fields over different frequencies.
Can be found relatively cheap, ranging from $25 to $200

Geiger Counter -
This is a very technical and expensive piece of equipment that requires special training to operate correctly. It reads the amount of radiation around us all the time
The price will vary depending upon the range reading abilities and accuracy of the model.

Expect to pay $100 to $1000. Used models can sometimes be purchased for less then $50at army surplus stores or online auction sites.

Night Vision Equipment -
This equipment is a fairly new tool to the ghost hunter.
You can get a very good scope for around $250

There are also adapters (under $30) that will attach the night vision scope directly to a video camcorder.

Two-Way Radios -
Safety of your group should always be your number one concern!
If your group must split up, it is a good idea to have these incase someone falls, needs assistance from others in the group or has lost their way in the dark.

Depending on the investigation (use your better judgment) a few additional items could be packed...

Optional Items to Consider:

Tape Measure (12 to 50 feet)
White Ball of String (100 feet)
Scissors and/or Knife
Drawing Paper or Sketch Pad
Chalk (white or colored to mark areas)
Cotton Balls (to put in windows and doorways to determine movement)
Talcum powder (to put on the floors to detect movement)
Liquid Level Ruler (to determine slanted areas)
First Aid Kit

TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE & VIEW
Documentaries, Video, EVP, Television Clips, Radio Clips, Message Boards,
And MUCH more:
http://www.ghosthounds.com/content-11.html]GHOSTHOUNDS

As a final note, I truly hope this Series on the PARANORMAL INVESTIGATOR has helped answer some of the questions you wanted to ask but were unsure who to ask or where to look...
MY VERY BEST to you ALL!

BE SAFE
BE CALM
BE AWARE

SO YOU WANT TO BE A GHOST HUNTER...

SO YOU WANT TO BE A GHOST HUNTER...

*Actually, I don't "hunt" ghosts. I communicate with them. Some of the conversations I have initiated, while they have orchestrated others. Ghost Hunting implies something to me that I do not personally identify with.

When I was thinking about this article, it occurred to me just HOW far we have come in the field of parapsychology. I don't consider myself to be old (and yet I shall be 40 this year), but when I was a teenager this was NOT a topic that was discussed...
And I grew up in the very liberal city of Berkeley!
So, now to see the various programs that have come about, books, and overall interest in the paranormal in general is very exciting!

In this *paranormal renaissance* of today, there have been a boom of new paranormal groups popping up weekly! The enthusiasm of folks is refreshing! However, this is not a microwave topic. It takes, in my opinion, many years of both personal experiences, as well as, reading as much about paranormal phenomena as possible.

It's really not a *drag & drop* hobby. And just buying fancy equipment in NO way protects and/or insures that you are indeed ready emotionally and psychologically for the astral realms. I believe it is of vital importance to begin (if you don't already) a strict discipline of Meditation, Contemplation, and Prayer!!! You must be in touch with your own dark side, demons, or shadow so that you will be able to determine that which is coming from within you vs. that which is outside.

In my humble opinion, I believe that DEMONS DO exist.
I say this not to be an alarmist, but rather a realist offering up what I believe to be the Truth.
I realize many of you do not believe this and we can agree to disagree. But due to my strong opinion regarding this matter, I cannot emphasize enough HOW IMPORTANT PRAYER & MEDITATION are!!!! You MUST learn how to psychically protect yourself. (stepping down from soap box).

If the ghostly plane is anything like what I have seen... it is a cold, dark, and sullen place!...
Those inhabiting and/or traversing this realm are often lost or confused. Some, however, in that state of confusion, are content to haunt the world rather than face GOD'S Judgement.

Just as in life, many of these ghosts are very difficult to be around. Murderers, Rapists, etc....
Consider prisoners condemned to death row. It could be argued that there are many within the ghostly planes that have comitted dastardly deeds and are terrified of Hell and/or GOD'S Judgement. Often these souls are so angry, terrified, or confused that they refuse to be with GOD and Judged for their actions on earth. Some are constantly *hiding* from the LIGHT. Both figuratively and literally.

What does all of this mean for the would-be investigator and/or novice???
It means that NO ONE should enter this field willy-nilly. Just as you would study and learn about any academic discipline, so too, should you absorb yourself in as much paranormal literature as you can find. Libraries can be a great resource. So can used bookstores. Online aritcles are great but do not let that be your only form of education (and that's Good Advice in general).
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!!!

I found for you an article on guidelines for taking ghost photos.

Ghost Photography in Cemeteries
by Dave Oester

*Summary: If you follow the IGHS guidelines you should have a 90% chance of capturing spirit anomalies on film and if you don't than expect only 10% success.

Ghost Photography can be an interesting hobby to personally confirm the existence of ghosts or as the IGHS (International Ghost Hunters Society) suggests, the Spirits of the Dead. Anyone who follows the guidelines outlined below should have a 90% chance of success on their first investigation.

First, choose a cemetery that is old and has some history behind it. It seems that the older cemeteries were placed in locations that the early fathers felt were special and closer to God. These special places may well be locations for portal access ports into the next dimension through which the spirit entities enter our dimension. Sharon and I almost always get several ghost photos with film cameras and dozens of ghost photos with the digital camera each time we investigate a cemetery.

Second, when entering any cemetery you must observe some basic guidelines for successful results. Reverence and respect is the most important guideline you should observe. Speak in low voices when you must communicate and avoid simple chatting. If you go with a small group of investigators, all must observe these guidelines. When you arrive, walk around for the first thirty to forty-five minutes allowing the spirits to get use to you. Then begin taking pictures. Spirits will often follow small groups of people around so focus your mind and project positive thoughts and your desire to capture these life forms on film as proof of life after life existence. Speak in a positive manner, spirits will often listen and comment on what you are saying so take along a tape recorder.

Third, ghosts will not follow you home from the cemetery nor will you be in danger from these spirit entities. Many superstitions suggest that ghosts will follow you home from a cemetery, but I have never found this the case. You should be more concerned about problems from the living than the dead. I can tell you from personal experience that it is easier to investigate an old dark cemetery if other people are with you. This is more psychological than physical. We all feel safer in numbers than alone, not from the spirits from the living who may be near the cemetery, such as drinking teenagers who decided the cemetery would be a good place to avoid the police.

CAMERAS: Any kind will work as long as they have a flash. We have used 35mm, the new APS cameras and finally digital cameras with amazing results. We have posted photos on our website taken with point and shoot 35 mm cameras, 110, 220, digital and with Polaroid's.

DIGITAL CAMERAS: These are very effective in capturing ghostly anomalies and can be viewed immediately after snapping the picture. A digital camera is a good way of alerting others as to where the ghostly anomalies are positioned because you can immediately view the photo and see the orbs or ectoplasm. The digital camera should have a built-in flash. Many people are not familiar with how digital camera will suggest that the digital format may not be as effective as a film camera, but this is not the case.

In my opinion, the digital resolution is not nearly as important as the ability of the camera to shoot in low light conditions that is required for photographs taken in Cemeteries at night. If you are going to post the pictures to the Internet, the monitors can only read 72 or 75 dpi resolution. No need for extremely high resolution unless you desire to enlarge the photograph. The savings in film cost and developing will pay for a digital camera within a year or if you conduct regular investigations, within six months.

Any digital camera will capture paranormal anomalies. Digital cameras should be at least 1.3 meg for resolution. Avoid using cameras with a 640x480 as this resolution is too low. Digital cameras are now inexpensive, so look for a digital camera in the range of 3.3 megs and you will not go wrong.

FILM: We recommend the Kodak 400 Gold and the 200 speed film and the same speed for ASP. However, we have photos posted on our website with all ranges of film speed and brands of film. Remember the specification will vary between different brands of film so if one brand doesn't work well, try a different brand.

TIME: The best time is when the cemetery is getting dark as the darkness highlights the floating orbs when the flash is used. We have tried day shots without success. Some of our best photos have come around midnight while others as early as 8 P.M. depending on the time of year. Remember the lunar cycle plays a major roll in spirit activity. The full and new moon generates large geomagnetic fields as do magnetic storms. This increased magnetic fields often allow the photographer to capture significant anomalies on film.

WEATHER:
Be aware that rain, snow, mist, fog or other weather related condition can be the source of anomalies captured on film. Never take pictures when it is raining, snowing, misting or when fog is present. If the temperature is cold and you can exhale your breathe than be aware you might be capturing the breathe on film which resembles fog. If you must investigate during adverse conditions, always hold your breath for a few seconds before snapping a picture and if you capture a fog like substance in your print, disregard it as the chances are it was exhaled breathe.

If your camera has a strap, either remove it or keep it around your neck at all times or your wrist. Never allow it to hang loose. Be sure to keep fingers and hanging hair away from the lens. Remember that a flash will reflect off any surfaces within the twelve foot range of flash. Flash can also bounce so be aware of your surroundings and avoid reflective surfaces. Most flash units are ineffective beyond the nine to fifteen foot distance and the intensity of light will drop off drastically each foot beyond according to the inverse square law rule. A little common sense goes a long ways to prevent natural anomalies from appearing on film.

SHOTS:
Take several rolls of film along with you and snap a picture every time you feel or think something might be presence. Plan on using as many rolls of film as you have with you.

To READ the FULL ARTICLE:
INTERNATIONAL GHOST HUNTER'S SOCIETY

SPIRITOGRAPHY: INTERVIEW WITH JIM DECARO

PIRT


SPIRITOGRAPHY

When I decided to write this article, it was because of my passion for paranormal photography. SO often, I find the debates about what is paranormal or not in a photo to be subjective. And while that is not a bad thing...it leaves much to be desired within the scientific community.

In an attempt to DO just that, have paranormal photography recognized by the scientific community, Jim DeCaro set the bar.
And set it HIGH, he did!
Many of you may not realize, that it is DeCaro himself that coined the term SPIRITOGRAPHY. Recently, I had the honor of interviewing Jim DeCaro, truly a MASTER of SPIRITOGRAPHY...



INTERVIEW WITH JIM DECARO

ROSE-
When did you discover your 1st photo containing something paranormal? What was it? How did you determine it was paranormal in nature?

JIM–
1999, at first they began appearing in my photographs, then I began to see them appear and disappear, upon examining the photographs; detailed images of human anatomical features were clearly visible (I call that paranormal).

ROSE-
How long have you been taking spirit photos?

JIM–
1999

ROSE-
When did you coin the term "Spiritography" ?

JIM–
1999/2000, I had been trying to name my collection for several weeks in order to register with the US Copyright office, it came to me at 3:00 am from a dead sleep.

ROSE-
Do you think being in the company of a medium makes a difference in the manifestation of spirits?

JIM–
That is my current belief.

ROSE-
Do you believe digital cameras to be the best for capturing paranormal phenomena? Why or why not?

JIM–
I’m not convinced the type of camera is viable either way. I prefer Digital.

ROSE-
Do you have an opinion on the ORB debate?

JIM-
Spiritography is far more advanced than (orbs), I don’t even bother to keep them anymore.

ROSE-
What advice do you have for the seasoned photographer, as well as, the novice?

JIM–
Get a real job (jk). I believe there is a certain level of cooperation between a spirit that wants to materialize and the photographer, learn to listen.

ROSE-
How close are we to having the scientific community's respect?

JIM–
Based on the results of the analysis of ghost and paranormal photographs as published in the IJP 50th Anniversary Edition (Volume XII, Issue 2, 2001), I would say not very close at all.

ROSE-
How did the Parapsychology Association determine your photos were the "real deal"? When?

JIM–
This is a question that scares me; I’m not qualified to speak on behalf of the scientific community or the methods involved in determining paranormal/spirit activity from a scientific viewpoint, what scares me is that they got it right, both times... 2001/02 and 2005.


VISIT:
JIM DECARO
www.SPIRITOGRAPHY.com

Upcoming:
DUST
BREATH
SMOKE
HAIR
SNOW
RAIN
MISC

PARANORMAL INVESTIGATIONS - GUIDELINES -

THE BARE BONES OF ASTRAL SOCIAL WORK

ADAPTED FROM:
How to Conduct a Safe Ghost Hunt
By: Brandy Stark

Everyone will conduct their investigations slightly different...
At this time, to my knowledge we do not have a set of GUIDELINES in place for PARANORMAL INVESTIGATIONS. So, in my opinion, it's best to consult many different resources, both online and off.
Amongst my paranormal research, I found this article of interest.

"In the modern world, where technology makes so many things explainable; the realm of the supernatural remains one of the last uncharted scientific quadrants. Ghosts, with their cross cultural and historical allure, are an easy supernatural target to research. What neighborhood does not have a house reputed to be haunted? With the advent of more accessible and cheaper tools and gadgets almost anyone can hunt ghosts. However, even advanced technology does not ensure human safety on a ghost hunt, common sense and reasoning does.

If ever confronted by a supernatural entity, the first reaction MUST be to REMAIN CALM. Always remember that the living have more power than the dead. YOU are in control of yourself and the situation.

*THIS MAY SEEM OBVIOUS...
BUT YOU WOULD BE AMAZED HOW MANY FOLKS FLEE!!!

Several sources, both psychic and scientific, have recommended imagining yourself surrounded by an impenetrable white light bubble of mental/spiritual energy. While this may sound rather unusual, it is supposed to offer the living protection. Regardless of whether the bubble is actually drawing sustenance from an unknown energy or not, it is a method to help focus the mind, boost confidence, and offers the living a means of defense against the unknown.

*I personally take it a step further...
Asking each member to, either silently or aloud say a prayer of THEIR OWN FAITH for PROTECTION.
I ask you honestly to consider...
What could it hurt?
What could it help?

Before going on a ghost hunt try to get some of the local history of the area. Building records are available for a small fee from most City Halls. Try to ask about the building and see if any other research has been done on the area.

*YES! YES! YES!
This is FANTASTIC advice.
You will be amazed at the potential of filling in any gaps in the investigations...

Always hunt in a group. This serves two purposes: one is to offer more eyes to witness a situation. The other is to offer more eyes to look out for one another. Pay attention to your own situation and offer verbal warnings to other teammates to avoid potentially unsafe locations.

Have different members of your team bring cameras, preferably 35 mm cameras. Black and White, infared, and color film are recommended for a ghost hunt, with a minimum speed of 400. Some may want to bring extra film in case of extreme manifestations. Digital cameras can also be used on a ghost hunt, though they may be subject to different forms of glare. Camcorders are also recommended to assist documentation of the hunt as well as offering another type of medium to pick up ghostly images. Try to avoid bringing Polaroid cameras as a common tendency is to blow on, move, or shake the film to help it develop faster which can leave marks on the film. Thumb impressions and fingerprints can also add images to the film.

*I think DIGTAL CAMERAS are a MUST...
If you are seriously investigating and searching for evidence, as opposed to just taking up a hobby.

To avoid unwanted images, check for streetlights and passing cars outside of the hunt location. Always have one person at a time taking a photograph. Stray flashes can appear as orbs on film. Have several different cameras take the same picture of one location, particularly if it has unusual readings. Compare developed pictures for images and similarities. If any group member smokes, tell them not to while on the hunt. The smoke from the cigarette causes a mist like form to appear on film. Also beware of the camera strap, for it makes a vortex like image on the film. Make sure it's always out of the way of your picture.

If possible, try to investigate the area during the day so that you may become more familiar with the layout for the ghost hunt. If the owner or employee of a location is monitoring the ghost hunt explain to them the procedures of the hunt, why they are being preformed, and what the results mean. This helps keep outsiders more at ease and will allow the investigation to flow more smoothly.

*I agree with this 100% and ALWAYS conduct some of the investigation during the day light. I also think it is wise to visit a location at different times of the day to see how the light casts different shadows, etc...This way you are less likely to make an unintended false identification.
Next, always wear sensible shoes. Comfortable shoes are always essential because ghost hunts usually entail a lot of walking around. Make sure shoes have good traction to help secure your footing when crawling through attics or scrambling around a bush.

Sensible clothing is also recomended. Jeans or pants are preferable; it's harder to scratch, scrape, or bruise skin that is not directly exposed to the environment. Clothes should offer a good amount of room for movement, however. Reaction time can be essential in a ghost hunt should any intruments register potential paranormal powers or should a ghost be sited.

Bring a very strong flashlight. Many ghosts hunts take place at night. Strong lighting is not always available. Flashlights also help to see into those dark and hidden places along a trail or in a home. Heavy duty flashlights are preferable, though they can be bulky and tiresome to carry. One option is to have different members of the team bring different types of flashlights from hand-held to heavy duty. Always bring more than one flashlight and spare batteries with you.

*I'd say BRING LOTS OF SPARE BATTERIES!

Members of the team shouldn't wear perfume or cologne, for it may distract the other team members, and/or mask the scent a ghost might be giving off.

Electromagnetic Voice Phenomenon (EVP) is a newer method of ghost research. It entails bringing a blank tape never before used, and leaving it to record in a haunted area. A ghost investigator can ask questions to a ghost and pause to allow the ghost to answer, or a ghost hunter can invite the ghost to speak freely and leave the tape recorder recording as all others leave the area. By leaving the tape recorder this alone, this removes the possibilities of human tampering, of the recorder picking up stray sounds and whispers. It can also be used to determine if a noise is supernatural or natural in origin ( i.e., if the ghostly knockings heard by the residence are really the furnace turning on, etc. ).

Adding a first aid kit to your ghost hunting kit is also a god idea. Ointment and bandages should always be available just in case an accident does happen to you or a member of your crew.

Never enter a place marked "no trespassing" without permission. Avoid going to condemmed sites and areas that are "banned" to the public.

Leave a copy of the address where you and your team are ghost hunting and an approximate time to expect the teams return with a reliable person who is not on your ghost hunting team. A list of names and phone numbers of team members might also be a benefit in case of a large-scale emergency. If one or more members of a team are injured, or the team becomes lost and disoriented, this outside person will be available to locate the authorities and launch a search. Granted, this happens rarely, if ever, but it is always better to be safe than sorry. This is a simple percaution to take.

If you're attempting a ghost hunt in a cemetery, you may also wish to alert police to your presence. Also, be respectful to graves; try to avoid stepping on them or damaging any properties.

It may be advisable to remain within reach of a telephone or cell phone. If you bring a cell phone make sure it's turned off unless theres an emergency. Ringing cell phones can cause distractions during hunts, interviews, to other people on the team, and possibly the ghost itself! Active cell phones can also effect the readings of the EMF ( electromagnetic field ) meter.
Take along with you paper and pencils to document the ghost hunt. Take down times, dates, members who you're with, the area your exploring, etc.

Despite this list of tips, ghost hunting usually is not a dangerous *sport* if you pay attention and keep your mind focused on the surrounding area. However, always be prepared for an emergency, and have a plan worked out in advance with your teammates in case an injury does occur. Good luck, and safe and happy hunting!

*Well for me, it's not hunting, sport, or a game ...
It's more like being an Astral Social Worker!!!...LOL...


About Brandy:
Brandy Stark is one founder of a St. Petersburg-based ghost hunting group. She has been interested in ghosts since childhood and culminated her interest into a series of articles which have been published in Bayside News, and on Psychic-Tymes.com A recent graduate of the university of South Florida's Religious Studies Master's program, she devoted her academic studies to researching the role of ghosts through ancient religions.

Mission Statement and Origin:
We are the S.P.I.R.I.T.S. of St. Petersburg. We are Servicing Paranormal Investigators Reporting Information Through Study.

What we use: EMF meters, temperature sensitive gauge, black and white film, color film 400 speed, tape recorders, digital cameras, and video recorders.


TO VIEW THE FULL ARTICLE:
http://wintersteel.homestead.com/Information.html

3 ORBS & DOUBLE RAINBOW

GOTCHA!!!

GOTCHA!!!

While retiring to bed this evening I was peacefully reading my book...(Edgar Cayce's readings on Atlantis)...and the bed shaking started up...AGAIN!

I wondered momentarily if it was an earthquake.

This time I grabbed my new digital camera and snapped a few pics. Looks like I may have caputured my *friend*...

I know, I know...I am no fan of ORBS, either.

But the timing, which was literally seconds from my bed shaking, makes this snap worth mentioning...

YOU Decide!

And Keep your cameras and voice recorders close!

~Rose