How To Use Thermal Cameras for Ghost Hunting

How Does a Thermal Camera Work?

Ghost hunting has long been a pursuit for those intrigued by the paranormal. From trying to explain the unexplainable to unravelling the mysteries of the afterlife, some serious gear goes into this journey.

Among all the gadgets ghost hunters use, the thermal camera is one of the most popular. Also known as thermal imaging cameras, they’re like a window into the supernatural. They reveal things hidden from the human eyes.

Thermal imaging cameras use complex algorithms. And a special lens and super-sensitive sensors to pick up changes in infrared light around us.

Looking through a thermal camera, you’ll notice that colder objects appear darker. While warmer objects display a spectrum of colours like red and orange.

Here’s where things get a bit technical. Every object that emits heat has something called “emissivity”. Think of it as an object’s unique fingerprint for giving off radiation. Thermal imaging cameras pick up on this emissivity. And they translate it into what we see on the camera’s display – a thermal image.

Detecting ghosts through thermal imaging: fact or fiction?

In ghost hunting, some believe thermal imaging can help spot ghosts. The idea is that ghosts might leave behind a trace of their energy as a temperature signature (more on this in the next section).

Believe it or not, the ghost-hunting community has differing opinions on thermal cameras. If you believe in spooky stuff, thermal cameras are spirit magnets. But if you’re sceptical, you may think it’s all just a bunch of “hocus-pocus” that TV ghost hunters made up.

The truth? Well, it’s somewhere in between. Thermal cameras have picked up some odd stuff over the years, making even the sceptics raise an eyebrow!

Just check out the story of paranormal investigators who captured a “demonic entity” on a thermal camera at the infamous Ancient Ram Inn! A paranormal tour guide witnessed the strange incident and saw “a mist form over the chair, like something was sitting in it”.

Why Do Ghosts Register As Thermal Readings?

When you find yourself in the shadows of a creaky, old house and you feel like someone (or something) is watching, the thrill of it may not be the only thing sending shivers down your spine.

Ghost hunters and paranormal believers have long held that those unexplained cold spots signify spirits are afoot. But how? While there’s no scientific evidence behind it, it’s widely believed that apparitions consist entirely of energy.

Paranormal investigators suggest that this spectral energy supposedly absorbs heat from its surroundings. As it does this, it creates what we see as a cold spot in the shape of a specter.

But there’s more! Depending on how much energy they absorb, ghosts can appear as hot spots.

The thermal signs of paranormal activity

How can you tell if what you’re capturing is, in fact, a ghost? We need to look at how instances of thermal energy may not always be the work of spirits.

As we mentioned earlier, a thermal imaging camera can read infrared light. It’s an invisible form of electromagnetic radiation. This infrared radiation is tied to heat, and objects hang onto some heat from their surroundings. Sometimes, the bright red or orange spot you see may be traces of where people were.

As for that spine-tingling feeling of cold dread – it’s a classic sign of paranormal activity. Ghost hunters often rely on thermal cameras to seek out these abnormal cold spots and capture ghostly evidence.

Now, depending on your camaeras palette, the images during your spectral survey can have dark spots that stand out dramatically. It looks pretty eerie. But this may not be the essence of spirits.

Dampness, like leaky pipes and water damage (you’re in an old spooky house), can play tricks on your thermal images. And can create those ominous-looking dark patches.

So, when you’re on the prowl for paranormal evidence, remember that not all strange mysteries are ghostly. The best way to tell? A little preparation and know-how. Onto the next section!

Seeing the Unseeable: How to Capture Ghosts

You’ve found a spooky location and packed a trusty thermal camera. And now you’re ready to capture evidence of spectral beings. But let’s be real: presenting ghostly proof is no walk in the paranormal park!

You’ll need to know how to use a thermal imaging camera!

1. Set up your thermal camera.

First, you’re going to need a top-notch thermal imaging camera. Exclusive to SpiritShack, this thermal imaging camera can capture and reveal temperature differences on its screen.

Having this kind of real-time feedback during your paranormal investigations is invaluable. It’s what makes this equipment a must-have. Some ghost hunters have even captured full-body apparitions when using this device!

2. Turn off all lights.

We know it sounds creepy, but darkness is your friend regarding paranormal investigations. These cameras perform their best in low-light conditions, as you want to minimize light pollution as much as possible.

3. Scan the area carefully.

With your thermal imaging camera on and ready, start scanning the area carefully and slowly. Remember what we said earlier about how cold and hot spots can be misleading? Keep these pointers in mind:

• A cold spot could be caused by water leaks, missing insulation, or the paranormal…
• A hot spot might be a pipe, electrical outlet, or a heated spirit…

So, before you declare a ghostly apparition, take a moment to rule out the possibility of other mundane interferences.

4. Review your footage, never delete it.

No matter how seasoned a ghost hunter you are, the excitement of a potential ghostly encounter can make your heart race. It’s easy to miss things in the heat of the moment, so wait to delete any images or footage until you’ve had a chance to review it. Who knows? You might capture real proof!

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got the scoop on thermal cameras for ghost hunting, it’s clear that every ghost hunter needs one. Want to catch paranormal activity in action? Then, you best pack a thermal camera for your next ghost hunt!

With the basics of how these cameras work and some handy tips in your pocket, you’re all set for your thrilling ghost-hunting journey.

FAQs

Which is better for ghost hunting, thermal cameras or night vision cameras?

Both cameras have their place in a ghost hunter’s arsenal, but which one you choose depends on your goals. Thermal cameras excel at detecting temperature anomalies and potential ghostly energy. On the other hand, night vision cameras offer clear images of entities in the darkness.

What other ghost-hunting equipment can be used to detect thermal energy?

Ghost hunters often use advanced thermometers and infrared laser guns to spot temperature differences linked to a spectral presence. This equipment is typically used alongside a thermal imaging camera to capture the most accurate evidence.