Full-Spectrum Photography Flashcards

When photographing a reportedly haunted interior with a full-spectrum camera, which white balance setting is recommended as a neutral starting point for UV/IR captures?

Answer: Custom white balance set on a white card under the investigation light source

A custom white balance calibrated on a white card under the actual scene lighting provides the most neutral and repeatable color reference for full-spectrum images.

Which ISO setting trade-off is MOST important to understand when shooting full-spectrum in a dark investigation environment?

Answer: Higher ISO increases sensor sensitivity but introduces digital noise that can mimic anomalies

Increasing ISO amplifies sensor sensitivity but also amplifies electronic noise, which can appear as false artifacts or anomalies in paranormal review.

An investigator captures what appears to be a glowing mist in a full-spectrum photo taken outdoors at night. What environmental factor should be ruled out first?

Answer: Breath vapor, fog, or high humidity reflecting the camera's built-in IR illuminator

Breath vapor, fog, or humid air illuminated by an IR light source or flash appears as glowing mist in full-spectrum or IR images and is the most common natural explanation.

What is the significance of using simultaneous full-spectrum and standard visible-light cameras at the same location during an investigation?

Answer: Comparing both images helps differentiate genuine anomalies from IR/UV artifacts or reflections

Running both camera types simultaneously allows investigators to compare images and identify whether anomalies appear only in the UV/IR bands or also in the visible spectrum.

Which lens characteristic becomes MORE problematic for a full-spectrum camera than for a standard camera?

Answer: Focus shift between visible and IR/UV wavelengths causes images to be soft when focused visually

Lenses are designed to focus visible light; infrared and UV wavelengths have different focal points, causing focus shift that results in soft or blurry full-spectrum images unless corrected.

In the context of CPI methodology, what does 'full-spectrum video' add to a paranormal investigation beyond still photography?

Answer: Continuous temporal documentation allows investigators to correlate movement or changes with other simultaneous equipment readings

Full-spectrum video provides a continuous time-stamped record that can be cross-referenced with EVP, EMF, and temperature data captured at the same moment.

Which of the following is a best practice for documenting a full-spectrum photograph as potential paranormal evidence?

Answer: Record camera settings, GPS coordinates, time stamp, and present investigators at the moment of capture

Proper chain-of-custody documentation—including time, location, settings, and witnesses—is essential for any image to be considered credible paranormal evidence.