In the latter part of the nineteenth century, photography and spiritualism both became very popular, and 'spirit photographs' began to emerge. There are many photographs in existence that have 'spirits' on them; objects or people that were not seen during the taking of the photograph but appear when the film is developed. The appearances of the majority of these 'spirits' have logical explanations, such as dirt on the lens or an obstructing camera strap causing a blurred shape on the picture. They can be faked easily by making use of photographic techniques such as double exposure. There are a few controversial spirit photographs that have been examined by experts who cannot find any evidence of forgery. One example is the 'Tulip staircase' photograph taken at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, England. A tourist took a snapshot of the staircase and when it was developed, robed figures could be seen ascending the stairs.
Photographs of figures or faces, believed by some to be thoseof deceased persons.
A spirit photograph captures the image of a ghost on film. Many of these are supposedly intended as a mere portrait of a living human being, but when the film is developed, an ethereal ghostly face or figure can be seen hovering near the subject. This may also incorporate orbs, vortexes, and mists to some degree.
The photographing of supposed self-portraits of discarnate entities (called “extrasâ€) upon film or photographic plates. Compare Photography, Paranormal.