Paranormal Investigation Basics

Introduction

Paranormal investigation is the systematic exploration of locations and phenomena that appear to defy conventional scientific explanation. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned investigator, following proper protocols and using appropriate tools can significantly improve the quality of your investigations.

Preparation

Research

Before investigating any location:

1. Historical Research: Gather information about the location’s history, including:

   • Previous owners/occupants
   • Historical events that occurred there
   • Reported paranormal experiences

2. Site Assessment:

   • Obtain permission from property owners
   • Identify potential safety hazards
   • Note sources of contamination (EMF, sound, vibration)

3. Team Preparation:

   • Brief all team members on the location’s history
   • Assign specific roles and responsibilities
   • Establish communication protocols

Equipment

A basic paranormal investigation kit should include:

• EMF Detector: For measuring electromagnetic field fluctuations
• Digital Audio Recorder: For capturing EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena)
• Digital Camera/Video Camera: For documenting visual anomalies
• Thermometer: For measuring temperature fluctuations
• Flashlights: For navigation and potential communication tools
• Notebook and Pen: For documenting experiences in real-time

Investigation Protocols

Setting Up

1. Baseline Readings:

   • Take initial EMF readings throughout the location
   • Record baseline temperatures in each area
   • Note ambient sounds and their sources

2. Equipment Placement:

   • Position static cameras to cover key areas
   • Place audio recorders in reported hotspots
   • Set up environmental monitoring equipment

Investigation Methods

EVP Sessions

1. Conduct in quiet areas with minimal contamination
2. State date, time, location at the beginning of each recording
3. Ask clear, open-ended questions
4. Allow 10-15 seconds between questions
5. Note any audible responses or environmental changes

Trigger Objects

1. Select items relevant to the location’s history
2. Place in areas of reported activity
3. Monitor for movement or interaction
4. Document the object’s position before and after

Sensory Investigation

1. Conduct “lights-out” sessions in reported hotspots
2. Have investigators report sensory experiences:
   • Visual anomalies
   • Auditory phenomena
   • Temperature changes
   • Physical sensations
3. Corroborate personal experiences with equipment readings

Evidence Review

Audio Analysis

1. Listen to recordings in a quiet environment with quality headphones
2. Note timestamps of potential EVPs
3. Avoid excessive audio enhancement that might create artifacts
4. Have multiple team members review independently before sharing findings

Video/Photo Analysis

1. Review all footage methodically
2. Flag potential anomalies for team review
3. Rule out natural causes:
   • Dust/insects
   • Light reflection/refraction
   • Camera straps/fingers
   • Digital compression artifacts

Data Correlation

Look for patterns across different evidence types:

• Did EMF spikes coincide with temperature drops?
• Did multiple investigators report sensations in the same location?
• Do audio anomalies correlate with visual phenomena?

Ethical Considerations

Respect for Locations

1. Leave locations as you found them
2. Obtain proper permissions
3. Respect historical and cultural significance

Client Interactions

1. Maintain confidentiality
2. Avoid making definitive claims
3. Provide evidence without embellishment
4. Consider psychological impact of your findings

Spiritual Respect

1. Approach investigations with respect for potential entities
2. Avoid provocative or disrespectful communication attempts
3. Consider cultural and religious perspectives

Conclusion

Effective paranormal investigation balances scientific methodology with open-mindedness. By following established protocols, documenting thoroughly, and analyzing evidence critically, investigators can contribute meaningfully to our understanding of unexplained phenomena.

Remember that the absence of evidence is not evidence of absence. Many investigations may yield no conclusive results, but the systematic approach ensures that when evidence is captured, it stands up to scrutiny.