Any experienced Ghost Investigator will tell you that they all use some type of equipment in order to conduct their investigations. Instead of diving into a huge report on the why's I will simply list the equipment I use on regular Ghost Investigations. Again, everyone has their own way of doing things, their own brand names, their own equipment, but I will simply list what i think is important and what has helped me.
1. An Open Mind.
I do call this a piece of equipment because without it you will not get very far. I don't always need a recorder, a camera, a infra red camera to tell me something is strange. I believe we all have basic instincts that are bred into us. In our society, the way we live our (so-called) senses are diminished and often ignored. Those who can keep an open mind, relax, not fearful can sometimes pickup things that others can't. This is not magic or a special gift (sometimes i guess it can be) but rather its being alert and clear headed. Always try to find a balance between the intellectual and the ridiculous. Be positive and in time you will be able to tell the difference between the serious researcher and those who are just out for notoriety.
2. A Camera.
Probably the most important part of any investigation is having a camera. Typically a .35mm camera with GOOD Kodak 400 film will work just fine. Digital cameras are also a good idea although they do not provide negatives. Personally I use both and have come up with very nice images from both ways. Each have their pro's and con's including film costs, developing, money, negatives. I would recommend have both a digital camera and a good .35mm camera.
3. Film
Many people agree that the Kodak 400 Gold speed film is the best for a .35mm camera. Never use cheap film on any ghost hunt. Also some people use special Infra-Red film both this can prove costly in both film and developing.
4. EMF Meter (Electromagnetic Field Detector)
Another extremely important piece of any ghost haunting. Their basic function is to detect electro magnetic fields in a particular area. Such fields are often generated by ghosts and are usually manifested at a real haunting. If you do happen to get EMF readings don't alway's assume that the reading is paranormal. EMF's can be mainifest by any power source including TV's, radio's appliances, wiring, and lights. ALWAYS be aware of whats around you and try to eliminate other sources. EMF Meters can run anywhere from 20.00 to over 300.00 depending what you need. Some have different guages, some have digital displays, and some have audio alerts. Depending on your finances and your seriousness in your hunting will decide which meter/detector is right for you.
5. Video Camera's
These are capable of taping real time video on tape. A very nice thing to have. It is a nice thing to carry a camera around, pick up a detection on your EMF meter and to start recording. While others place camera's in stationary positions. Whatever your need these are very nice to have.
6. Tape Recorders
Over the past few years serious work has been given to EVP's or (Electronic Voice Phenomenon) Many have come to know that ghosts often leave their voices on tapes and are very facinating. The recorder is often carried by the researcher with an external mic or sometimes it is even left stationary. Personally I have always carried mine around with me.
7. Notebook, pencils
Reports, documents, times are always needing reported. Never leave home without a pen and paper.
Compasses, Thermometers, Thermal Scanners, Night Vision Devices, Thermal Imaging Scopes, motion detectors, digital recorders, ion detectors and geiger counters..
That's about it. The bottom line is, how far do you want to go with your hauntings or how deep do you want to get into it? Do you simply want to record EVP's at your local cemetary? Do you want the ability to record pictures? Are you curious why certain areas of your house give you chills? Or do you want to actually lead investigations?
The choice is all up to you... Happy Hunting!