- Camcorders:
We use the Sony TRV 280 Handycam with Nightshot. It is not an overtly expensive camera, has both Hi8 and Digital recording features, and shoots IR. It has software and a USB cable for downloading to a computer. The HVL-IRM IR external light is worthwhile. It can extend the IR field of vision up to 65 ft. Buy the extended life batteries, as PRF Chris once said; "They are Ghost Proof." At this time, we have not been able to find a "generic" battery, but we will keep looking. - Digital Recorders:
We use the Olympus brand digital recorder. They are small, lightweight, and have up to 30 hours of recording time. They can be used with an external microphone, but it is not necessary. - Point & Shoot Cameras:
This is one place that variety does not matter, as long as they have a flash. (Make sure you turn off any "red eye" settings on the flash.) We only use film cameras for the actual hunts. Digitals, unless you can buy one that records over 5 Mega pixels, can create anomalies when used in low light conditions. Where they do not have enough "information," they can fill in blank pixels with white. For film, 400 speed works good in low light. We do not use IR film, as it is very expensive, hard to handle, and very difficult to process.
- IR Converted Digital Camera:
If you want to try your hand at IR photography, the best thing to do is buy a high Megapixel digital camera and have it converted to photograph in the IR spectrum. You cannot put an IR filter on a digital camera and catch IR images. The interal filters of most digital cameras are made to filter out IR light. There are several reputable companies online that will do the conversion for you or you can look online for directions. Best bet is to buy a digital SLR camera, like a Nikon D60 or D90, that has at least 10 MP capacity. Be careful if you decide to do the conversion at home, it is very easy to mess up the camera.
- Flashlights:
Again, variety is not a problem here, but we tend to use Maglites. Each person should carry 2 flashlights with them at all times. We also use IR flashlights with the Camcorders. - IR security cameras:
Right now, we have 1 wireless camera. If you want to invest the money, get the corded ones. The wireless ones all transmit on the same frequency, so there is no way to "separate" the different cameras. Once we get up and running, (and have a tad more money), we will be going for the corded versions. Honestly, these are not necessary. They also require some kind of recorder and a monitor.all of which cost money and are bulky to carry. Invest in the camcorders, they are a better deal for the money, and can be used on a tripod in the same way the security camera is. You can get extra long video cables to connect them to a separate monitor if you feel the need. - EMF meters:
We have several different types of EMF meters, but only use them in limited roles in an investigation. Because magnetic fields are difficult to define and measure accurately, combined with there being no solid evidence that these fields are created by spirits - we rarely use them during the investigation itself. We do use them to check for EM issues at the location, since high levels of EM radiation have been know to cause hallucinations and other physical/mental issues in people. - IR Thermometer:
Only good for occasional use, since it does not read ambient temperature, but rather surface temperature. Look into getting a Thermocouple Thermometer, they read ambient temps, and usually do so rapidly.
- Thermocouple Thermometer:
Very good at reading ambient air temperatures, though the use of a probe, usually attached to the end of the thermometer. Before buying one, check the rate at which they measure temperatures. Some will measure several times in 10 seconds, others only take measurements every 30 seconds. The quicker measureing time, the better for this line of work.
- Geiger Counter:
Good for doing a baseline survey of the location. Not completely necessary, but we do use it.
- Two-Way Radios:
A necessity for a hunt. Each team member should have their own with a headset. The Voice Activated feature, (VOX), comes in handy. - Tape:
Duct tape, electrical tape, and painters tape. We use these for everything from taping down cords, to sealing window drafts, to sealing doors to make sure no one enters after the equipment is set up. - First Aid Kit:
Nothing ruins a hunt like someone bleeding or having an allergy attack. Don't rely on the homeowners to have Band-Aids or aspirin. - Clipboard & Notepad:
Each two man team should have one of each with them, to hold a site map and to take notes with. Don't forget something to write with! - Wrist Watches:
Each two man team should have one with them, and the entire groups should synchronize them at the beginning of the hunt, along with the clocks on the camcorders. |
