How to Capture Ghost Images on Film

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Famous "Brown Lady" photo, 1936
Ghost photography has a long and controversial history. Many people do not believe in ghosts at all, much less in a camera's ability to capture them on film. However, many professionals and hobbyists know the thrill of taking that photo that may just provide a window into the afterlife. Anyone can capture a ghost on film, but there are many challenges to keep in mind if you want to take a ghost picture that will rattle the beliefs of even the toughest skeptic.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need
35mm camera with flash
Digital camera
4 to 5 rolls of film (ISO/ASA 400)
Tripod
Flashlight
Map
Prepare for Your Ghost Hunt

1
Choose a location rich in paranormal possibilities. Ghosts frequently congregate in cemeteries or in places with emotionally volatile histories, like hospitals or former crime scenes.

2
Sketch a quick map of your chosen location for your ghost-photography session and highlight any specific areas that ghosts are likely to haunt. For instance, if a person spent most of her time in a certain room when she was alive, the chances are good that her spirit favors the same room in death. Murder and suicide spots also make for ripe ghost-hunting territories, but be wary of aggressive spirits.

3
Recruit a trusted partner and gather your materials. You will want to take someone else with you for safety reasons, but also because ghosts are attracted to people. Having a person in your photographs will increase your chances of capturing a ghost on film. Be sure to schedule a time when both you and your partner can spend many hours taking pictures. The more time you dedicate to your ghost photography, the higher your chances of success. Also, though it is possible to capture a ghost on film at any time of day, it is best to shoot at night to ensure a clear image of an anomaly.

Capturing a Ghost on Film

1
Once you and your partner arrive on site, use your map and tripod to set up your shots. Be sure to keep lighting to a minimum, as dust-particle reflections are often mistaken for ghost orbs. Use a flashlight to get around, and keep all light sources out of the frame. This will help ensure that an apparition is more than just a typical lens flare.

2
Load your 35mm camera and ready your digital camera. Higher-speed films and slower shutter speeds offer the best chances in low light. You will use the digital camera to test promising shots, because you can see the results instantly (many ghosts will appear in a photograph, but not to your naked eye). While many ghost photographers only use digital cameras to capture their images, film negatives are much more difficult to fake and will provide more convincing evidence. If you think you have a chance of photographing a ghost, use both cameras to capture the shot.

3
Shoot. Professionals recommend taking around 50 to 60 photographs. Pose your partner against dark backgrounds that can help make a ghost image stand out. Shoot a full-body shot and allow for several feet above and beside your partner, because ghosts like to hover around people. Ghosts are most likely to appear 2' to 10' feet above the ground. Try a variety of angles, and be sensitive to cold areas that might indicate the presence of a ghost.

4
Develop your pictures and keep your fingers crossed. Look carefully for orbs of light or strange, misty formations. Have friends and family provide objective opinions about potential ghost captures in order to weed out natural phenomena, such as dust particles and cigarette smoke. Remember, you want the most convincing ghost photograph possible, so it is important to keep your excitement at bay until you are sure you have actually captured a ghost on film.

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Tips & Warnings

At all times, remain aware of what you are photographing. Thumbs, camera straps and cold breath are commonly confused with paranormal apparitions.

Orbs might be ghosts, but most ghost hunters discount them because they can be caused by so many other factors. Your best ghost photographs will depict strange clouds or mist in the form of a human.

Some experts asks ghosts for permission to photograph them. Try to alternate talking to spirits and keeping quiet.

Keep in mind that you may have to attempt ghost photography many times before you capture one on film. If it was easy, it wouldn't be so special when it actually happens.

Never trespass on private property, even if you are sure you could capture a ghost image in a particular area. Ask permission first, and be willing to take "no" for an answer.

Always tell your photo developer to print every picture on the roll. Many developers will not print a picture if it looks like it didn't take--but it might be that very picture that contains your ghost.

Resources

Jim DeCaro's professional insights on ghost photography
Collection of ghosts on film
Photo Credit Captain Provand;
Read Next: How to See Ghosts With Your Webcam