Equipment Always carry some means of identity with you. Always purchase the best equipment you can afford. Only take the amount of equipment that the case calls for. Don't be an equipment ‘anorak’ and lose sight of what it's for.   An Open Mind: Without this you will not be able to investigate and research objectively. Note Pad, Spare Pens and Pencils: For taking notes during interviews and to log anything you may hear or see during the vigil. Suitable Clothing: Preferably rustle free material such as ex WD SAS combat jackets, which are lightweight, waterproof and windproof. Bag and containers for equipment. All electronic and sensitive equipment such as cameras etc should be transported in aluminium cases, the interior of which is well padded. Batteries: Plenty of reserve stock required - occasionally batteries seem to discharge and drain suddenly on some investigations. Spare Bulbs for Torches: A good reserve stock for all torches. Stills Cameras: Good quality cameras and lenses, 35mm SLR with wide-angle lens, 35mm Auto-focus point and shoot. It is very important that you learn how to use them and how to take good pictures under all conditions first time, every time, always use without the strap. Digital Cameras: Are a matter of choice, some use them, but we do not. Click here to find why. Tripods: For cameras and video Film: Be sure to always take lots of spare films, Kodak or Fuji 400 or 800. A lower rated film will not give enough speed for low lighting conditions, a higher rated film such as 1200 or 3200 will show too much grain on the photograph. Recommended are Black & White, Colour and although expensive and a little tricky to use, infrared film. Flashlights: A good quality waterproof and shockproof flashlight such as a Maglite. We also use Exide cordless halogen spotlights when necessary. Flash Guns: Good quality professional Flash Guns. Remember your pictures are only as good as your equipment allows. Use ‘bounced’ flash whenever possible.  Magnetometers: Once again go for quality and reliability, and get proficient in the use of the instrument. Compass: Useful for noting where north is when drawing a site plan also for recording direction of sightings, it will also fluctuate wildly to change of magnetic fields. Accordingly, if you cannot afford a magnetometer then at a pinch a compass can be used instead. Digital Thermometers: To record sudden temperature changes, cold spots, etc. Audio Tape Recorders: Preferably to be used with an external microphone. Used for recording haunting activities, - always ensure it is recording continuously during a vigil. Video Camera: Keep running continuously throughout a vigil. Spare Videotapes: Take plenty with you and never use more than once. Surveyors Measuring Tape: For measuring distance for site map and any movement of items during a vigil. Passive Infrared Detectors: Used to monitor natural causes when placed in an empty room. Walkie-Talkie: The ones we use have a two-mile range, multi channel with hands-free mike. Watch: Preferably use a digital watch with illuminated face. Mobile Telephone: For emergency use only. Please always switch off during vigils. Lightweight Folding Seat: Just in case there is nothing to sit on. Flask containing coffee or tea: Definitely no beer or any alcohol for consumption on site during a vigil. Various small Items: Chalk, Post-it-notes (to use as markers), String or Twine, Candles, Jam Jars, Adhesive tape, Containers that can be sealed plus plastic forceps and a small First Aid kit. [Top][Back][Home] If page is loaded out of frames click Here This material may not be copied, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Ghost Watch UK are not held responsible for any actions taken after reading any of our pages!