How can I join iGHOST?

iGHOST is not seeking new members or accepting applications at this time. 

Can I come along on one of your investigations sometime?

iGHOST does not usually allow inexperienced people outside the group to accompany us on investigations, especially if we are investigating a private residence or business.
 

How do I get started in the field?

Just get out there and conduct some investigations!  Everyone in this field started from scratch, with little or no experience, training, etc.  Read what you can about conducting investigations safely, the proper use of equipment, evidence interpretation, etc.  At first you may only really have an opportunity to investigate public locations, such as graveyards or participate in overnight ghost hunts (many haunted locations now conduct overnight ghost hunts for a price), but some interesting phenomena has been captured at public graveyards, so you may be successful.  The more you investigate the more experience you will receive and eventually you will progress to investigating other locations.  Also, consider attending some paranormal conferences in your area.  You will meet like-minded people and maybe have an opportunity to join an established group.

I’m interested in investigating paranormal phenomena.  Where are some good places to check out?

That depends on where you live.  The Internet can steer you toward reportedly haunted locations in your area.  Take a look at some local ghost hunting groups and see where they have had success.

I have some strange photos, EVP’s, etc; can I send them to you to take a look at?

We would be happy to look at anything you would like to e-mail us and will provide you with our honest opinion about anything you send us.

I hear noises in my house, is it haunted?

Maybe, maybe not.  If noises are all you hear, chances are it’s just the building creaking, pipes banging, etc.  If you experience escalating phenomena, i.e. voices, shadows, figures, etc., then maybe you should consider calling a ghost hunting group to investigate.

How do I form a group of my own?

Virtually all paranormal investigation groups formed among like-minded friends who had an interest in ghosts, haunted houses, etc.  Just get together, come to agreement on your ghost hunting philosophies, pick a name for your group, and start investigating.  A website can come along later after you’re sure you want to continue in the field, or you can create a group page on any number of free social websites (i.e. MySpace, Facebook, etc.)  Read what you can about the field, gather equipment, and attend conferences to network with other paranormal investigators.

Can I make a living investigating the paranormal?

Most likely you will NOT make a living in this field.  Reputable paranormal investigators do not charge clients for their services.  We investigate because we enjoy it and are trying to find answers for people who are experiencing paranormal phenomena.  Only a scant few can make a living in this field, usually because they are successful writers on the subject.  Chances are excellent that you will NEVER have your own paranormal investigation program on television either.

What are some good resources for aspiring paranormal investigators?

The Internet is a wealth of information.  Bookstores have begun stocking more and more ghost hunting-related books due to the recent popularity of the field.  An excellent resource for nationwide groups, books, conferences and other events, as well as general information about paranormal investigation is the American Ghost Society, which you can visit at www.prairieghosts.com.  At the AGS you can order books from eminent paranormal writer Troy Taylor.  Taylor’s books are packed with information and very easy to read and understand.  The AGS is an excellent source for all things paranormal.  If you are serious about conducting paranormal investigations, it is suggested that you join the AGS.

What equipment do I need to investigate the paranormal?

The best equipment you can bring along on an investigation are your eyes and ears and an open mind.  Also you should bring along a camera (digital or film), an audio recorder, a flashlight, and a notebook.  More advanced items such as electromagnetic field detectors, infrared cameras, infrared thermometers, etc, can come later and are not at all necessary or required for successful investigating.

How can I find a group to join?

Find local groups on the Internet.  Virtually every major metropolis has a few established paranormal investigation groups, and if you live in a small town, there is probably one within reasonable driving distance.  If not, you have an opportunity to form your own group and be the “only game in town”.  You can find nationwide lists of groups at AGS or TAPS.

Would I have to pay dues if I joined a group?

That depends on the group.  You probably would have to pay dues.  iGHOST members pay monthly dues in order to provide money for the group for equipment purchases, conference attendance, overnight accommodations, etc.
 

Do I need special training/certification to become a paranormal investigator?

No.  The only training you need is the experience that you will gain as you investigate, and information you use from reading what you can on the subject.  Be very wary of anyone offering certification for a fee.  This is not a regulated field; it lacks a lot of scientific data and most investigators treat it as a serious hobby rather than an occupation.  Your growing reputation will be the only certification you need, as long as you investigate professionally and respectfully, are careful with your conclusions, and try your best to contribute positively to the field.

What is a ghost and can they hurt me?

Ghosts are thought to be manifested energy (see more about the different types of ghosts in Ghost Hunting 101).  It is highly unlikely that if they do exist that they can hurt you.  Most likely, the worst thing that can happen is that you will get a good startle if you ever saw one.
 

I think I’m sensitive/psychic.  Could you use my talents?

iGHOST does not utilize “sensitives” in our investigations.  We prefer to investigate from a scientific standpoint using various pieces of equipment to gather and interpret information.  We do not feel a sensitive person fits with us in this regard.  Some groups use such a person to augment their investigations, but we feel that can lead to false interpretations of collected evidence.

I’m considering inviting iGHOST to investigate my home (or business).  What can I expect?

iGHOST will come to your home and interview you (and your family if they are willing) about the phenomena you have experienced.  We will ask you to take us through the home and tell us about the experiences in and around the location.  We will ask you about the home’s history (i.e. was it ever a scene of tragedy or death?), and attempt to research the site if possible.  We will then begin our investigation which will include setting up video cameras and audio recorders at the various “hot-spots” in the building.  We will turn off the lights and begin to investigate.  We will take several pictures, conduct electronic voice phenomenon (EVP) sessions, take baseline electromagnetic field readings and attempt to find fluctuations in the fields, and take baseline temperature readings and attempt to find fluctuations in air temperature (which may or may not be indicative of the presence of paranormal activity).  The homeowner is encouraged and expected to remain in the home while the group investigates, and be available to answer any questions that the investigators may have.  We will also attempt to find reasonable answers for experienced phenomena, i.e. loose floor boards, banging pipes, faulty wiring, etc.  After the investigation is concluded we will evaluate the collected evidence and come to a conclusion about your situation.  Often it is necessary to repeat investigations if the evidence is inconclusive.

My house is haunted.  Can you get rid of the ghosts for me?

iGHOST does not cleanse houses of ghosts.  We are more than happy to investigate your home to help provide reassurance that your home is or is not in fact haunted.  If after that you still want your home cleared of paranormal activity, we will make every attempt to put you in contact with someone who can help you do this.