Let’s start out going over equipment that works best in varying techniques. I shoot with a Nikon D200.  This is a digital 35mm SLR camera that records at a 10.2 mega pixel quality.  What does this mean?  Simply put, it looks and feels like a film 35mm camera that you can interchange lens.  Obviously the technology is much improved from the older film 35mm, but it feels the same. 

Timed exposure photography is a technique that has the shutter of the camera is opened for an extended period of time.  The shutter of the camera is the curtain at the back of the camera that opens very quickly to focus the image on the recording plate at the back of the camera.  In film, that recording area would be the actual film running across the back of the camera.  The shutter opens and closes usually around 1/60 of a second during flash photography.  The naked eye can barely see this occur.  During the day, the shutter can open and close around 1/250 of a second, even quicker depending on how bright the sun is.  Timed exposures can last as long as you choose to leave the shutter open.  It can range from a few seconds, to several minutes if you choose. If you choose to leave the shutter open for an undetermined about of time, choose the “bulb” setting.  This will open the shutter when you depress the trigger or button, and close only when you release it. The aperture is how wide the lens opens for focus area and light entry.  I suggest the smallest number your camera/lens will allow. (i.e.- f2.8)

How would one go about doing a timed exposure?  Well the first thing you need is a tripod or a very stable platform to set the camera on.  It’s crucial the camera doesn’t move during the exposure, otherwise your image will be blurry.  I use a good quality tripod and cable release.  The cable release is a cable or wire that allows the photographer to stand away from the camera and fire the picture without touching the camera, thus causing a blurred image.  Set your camera up in a low-lit area, and if capable, set the shutter speed to either manual (where you can choose exactly what you want your shutter speed to be), or shutter priority (also where you can choose the shutter speed, and the camera chooses the aperture).   Focus the camera or allow the auto focus to set, then shoot.  Do this with several shutter speeds, several locations, or objects.

Why do I utilize this technique during investigations?  Most all paranormal investigations are theory.  If an entity chooses to manifest his/herself it may not be at the 1/60 of a second your camera is recording.  During a timed exposure it increases the chances of capturing the manifestation drastically. 

If you have any questions or comments feel free to email me.  Happy shooting!!