You will see a variety of different types of figures along your spirit photography journey, in this article we will try and cover off most of the different types you might see.
Orbs
The first and most common are orb photographs, as discussed in our article “What is Spirit Photography?” this type of figure is commonly a misinterpretation. They usually appear as translucent balls of light hovering above the ground. It was originally thought that an orb with a solid core or nucleus was proof that it was a genuine orb; however, it has been found that some digital cameras can even produce these images under the right conditions, so they cannot be counted as ghostly phenomena.
Usual Locations
Orbs can be found in almost any location, they are most commonly found outdoors and in historic locations. This may be due to the increased levels of dust or insect in the air.
MIST, VAPOUR, ECTOPLASM, ECTOMIST
This form of spirit is seen as a transparent cloud or mist; it has been seen as a swirling mist, and dense localised fog, even appearing to come out of a person. Usually photographed or filmed as a white or grey mist hovering a few meters above the ground. It is believed that this mist or ectoplasm is the preceding stage to a full apparition. These phenomena can be mistaken when taking photos in cold weather, the condensation on the lens from someone’s breath can appear as a mist or fog, smoke from a cigarette and even someone’s hair in front of the lens can also produce this effect.
Usual Locations
Ghostly fog can be found almost anywhere, but is commonly seen at graveyards, battle sites, and old buildings.
SHADOW GHOSTS AND DARK ENTITIES
Shadow ghosts are similar to ghostly mist however they are very dark or even pitch black. They usually appear between 2 and 10 feet tall and can either be on the ground or floating. Sometimes mistaken for regular shadows, they are usually seen out of the corner of the eye, and are hard to catch on film. Some believe that these are evil beings or demonic spirits however there is no conclusive evidence to support this theory.
Usual Locations
These types of entities are usually found in homes, and public places such as theatres and hotels.
APPARITIONS AND SPIRITS
Apparitions and full-bodied spirits are the rarest phenomena you may encounter. To catch them on film or video is Holy Grail of ghost hunting. They are seen as either complete or transparent and incomplete, wearing the clothes of their time period. They can sometimes be seen around specific objects that may have been important to them or around people.
Usual Locations
Apparitions can appear almost anywhere but are most commonly known to be in extremely haunted locations, cemetery’s, old hotels, performance halls, theatres, and homes.
