In order to do a high quality paranormal investigation, everyone needs some basic tools. This equipment can be purchased at Wal-Mart and Dollar Store and is relatively inexpensive. The intermediate equipment can be a little pricey but it is needed and up to your own discretion to purchase.
Basic
Equipment - Every team member of SPR is required to have the following:
35mm or Digital
Camera – For a beginner, having a camera is probably the
easiest and least expensive way to begin. Pictures, whether digital or recorded
on film can capture paranormal activity, activity that is often invisible to the
naked eye. This is especially true in the case of documenting the presence of
orbs and ectoplasm. A key for every good investigator, however, is to take the time to learn what a true orb (very rare) looks like versus dust or moisture. Also, any unusual pictures you get, spend a great deal of time attempting to debunk before putting it out there as paranormal.
Notebook & Pen or Pencil – Simple as this may be, it is always a good idea to have something to record any notes, findings or experiences you may have during an investigation.
Flashlight – Many
times an investigation will take you to a dark location such as a
cemetery, old warehouse, abandoned building or other place that is dark or
without electricity. In these instances you will need to have a light
source. Even in places with electricity, you normally investigate in the dark so flashlights are a must.
Extra Batteries –
Depending on the paranormal activity of a location, batteries can
mysteriously and unexpectedly lose their charge leaving you in the dark.
Regardless of the type of equipment you use, make sure you bring extra batteries
along to replenish depleted ones. The last thing you want is to have paranormal activity breaking loose and not be able to record any of it because you forgot the batteries.
Chalk - can be used to draw circles around any objects that you are monitoring for movement. For instance, if you are investigating a possessed raggedy Ann doll, draw a circle around her to see if she moved while you weren't looking... Also use it to mark your way back if you're in a large building with no lights.
Compass - A primitive way to detect fluctuations in EMF, as well as a very handy tool to keep you from getting caught in a "Blair Witch Project" situation
Measuring tape -checking distances and witness accounts
Thermometer - Needed for verifying cold spots and other temperature anomalies
Safety Mask - Some of the locations we investigate are filled with dust, mold, animal droppings, and other things you don't want to be filling your lungs with. This will let you breathe freely.
Intermediate Equipment - Not required but is very useful. This is in order of importance to you as an investigator:
Tape Recorder with an External Microphone – There is no better way to capture EVP’s (electronic voice phenomena) than through the use of a tape recorder. Whether using a traditional tape recorder with high quality tapes or a digital recorder, an external microphone should always be used. A detached mic is vital for an analog recorder as it will eliminate the sounds of internal gears and turning wheels that can contaminate your recording. External mics are also good for digital recorders as the quality of the sound is usually better than the internal mic.
Digital Video
Camera – Video cameras can be a useful investigation tool.
Unlike still cameras, a video camera will document any activity in its entirety
including the length of time the phenomena occurs, the surrounding conditions,
as well as the phenomena itself. A tripod to rest the video camera on is also
helpful, especially if it is going to be left in a stationary position to record
the activity in a specific location. Make sure your video camera has night vision and use of an IR illuminator is also recommended.
EMF Detector – The
Electromagnetic Field Detector is probably one of the most important pieces of
equipment to own if you are serious about doing an investigation. In addition to
detecting anomalous energy fields that could possibly indicate paranormal activity, it is a key tool to use when taking
baseline readings of a site. A baseline reading is a preliminary evaluation of a
location, where investigators identify any existing or man made electromagnetic
fields such as those created by power lines or electrical appliances. Very high EMFs occurring within a house can often explain paranormal reports as sensitivity to EMFs can cause paranoia (feeling of being watched), skin irritation, nausea, headaches, hallucinations (both audio and visual), so you really want to check a house for man made/natural EMFs.
Motion Detectors – Motion detectors can be used to sense the movement of unseen forces. Many need to be plugged in to an outlet, but battery operated ones are also available. Before you go out and buy one, decide which type will best support your needs.
Thermal Scanner – A thermal scanner or non-contact thermometer can be used to detect rapid temperature changes. A change of ten degrees or more from the ambient temperature (the temperature of the surrounding area) can indicate an ethereal presence. Many of these thermal scanners detect surface temperatures of objects, so it's also good to get one that has an attached ambient thermometer in case you're picking up on a cold spot right in the middle of a room.