Every invesigation I have been on are different. Some are shorter than others, some require followup, some have yielded great results, others not so great. Do not get discouraged. Just because nothing is recorded or no great results were found, does not mean anything. it simply means that you had a quiet night.
Below are things that should be checked thouroughly before any investigation and what is expected during an investigation. As I said earlier I am NOT an expert, there are many people and organizations that know MUCH MUCH more than I, although I have had successful hunts and I wish to share them with you and give you my ideals of what I expect, what works for me, and the ways I get to that point.
1. Everyone in the team should know their responsibilities without question. The cameraman should know about taking pictures, orbs, effects of dust and smoke, etc. The recording person should how his equipment, how to setup, how to record and playback. This is very important.
2. Respect the ghosts and their territories. In many aspects you are an intruder. Ghosts were once alive and well with feelings, emotions, personality, and feelings. Talk to them, offer respect, and thank them when you are done.
3. Do not play around. As stated above we represent ourselves and a field that is often ridiculed and discredited. Playing around and making jokes is disrespectful to ghosts and any homeowners who are watching your every move.
4. Always go on hunts with others. This isn't because you will be attacked by some unforseen force but rather in case of accident or illness you have a plan. It is good to have a walkie talkie or cell phone with you but always remember about EMF detections with these divices.
5. Do not trespass. Always get permission before entering private property. I know that most graveyards and cemetaries are open to the public but still carry identification. You may be stopped and asked by local authorities if your walking around a graveyard at 2am. Also in some areas (hospitals, etc) many do not want to talk of ghosts and ghost hunting. Respect their privacy and do not trespass.
6. Do not touch, pickup, break, or otherwise mess with anything in someone's house. If you feel a need to turn off a TV set, an appliance, etc then ask permission. Explain to them what your doing and why. You are there to collect information on ghosts, not to talk about their lifestyle, the cleanliness of their home, or anything else.
7. Do not get scared. First and foremost, if you are afraid of ghosts and the unknown this is NOT for you. Many times on extreme hunts you will get excited, you may jump, or back up a step or two but keep your calm! Ghosts do makes noises and they do sometimes try to get your attention. You may see a figure, a shadow or some apparition merely jump in front of you. Stay calm, stay professional.
8. Be aware of the homeowners feelings, questions, and concerns. There are some people utterly terrified of ghosts, others are unbelieving, and some I think actually want ghosts. Be aware of this and answer their questions. Never argue or force your beliefs. Be honest, be concise, and be educated.
9. Religion is not an issue during ghost hunts. Many people's religion denies the existance of ghosts or deems them totally evil in nature. This can be touchy. Always respect their feelings and beliefs. We are not there to debate or to force convictions. Our goal is to scientifically document events in the area by a number of methods and means. You may always disagree but never debate.
10. Have a set standard of rules, protocols, and instruction. This is very important when investigating, playing back tapes, or looking at pictures. The lead investigator (or organization) in which you belong usually have rigid guidelines to follow involving hunts. Remember them, respect them, and follow them.
11. Back to equipment. Know your equipment, replace batteries, clean your camera lenses, test your equipment regularly. Carry an id with you whereever you go. Keep your car full of gas, carry a first aid kit and a cell phone in your car. Flashlights are all things you will need to have and know how to use.
12. Be alert to the weather, geomagnetic storms, and in cases the moon. Windy nights produce dust, rainy days produce condensation. Fog, smoke, steam, snow all have their own problems. Know the weather and how to react to it.
13. As for the actual events during a ghost hunt, all organizations vary. Most usually conduct a pre-investigation to interview and to ask questions and to possibly see the area. Some take EVP measurments at this time and cae the property noting anything that can be revelant. This is often followed by a full investigation with your team for an hour to much longer. After the investigation data needs collected, analyzed, and a conclusion needs made. And then finally a follow-up needs completed to explain what was found, how it was obtained, and their best course of action. Sometimes there will be many questions, sometimes few. Some will be scared, some won't care. Educate them and offer explanation. If follow-up's are needed it is a good time to bring that up..
