How to Capture a Ghost on Camera (Maybe) on a Nashville Ghost Tour

So, you’ve signed up for a Nashville ghost tour—good call. Whether you’re here for the creepy stories, the haunted history, or just the thrill of seeing something strange, you probably want to leave with more than memories. You want evidence. Ghost-proof photos. That perfect shot to show everyone back home and say, “Yep… I saw it too.”

Capturing a ghost on camera isn’t easy. They don’t pose, smile, or stay still. But with a little preparation, patience, and luck, you might just snap something otherworldly. Here’s how to boost your chances while keeping the experience fun and safe.

1. Keep Your Camera or Smartphone Handy

The best ghost shots are often spontaneous. Keep your camera or phone ready at all times—you never know when a shadow will dart across a window or a light will flicker at the perfect moment. Burst mode can help you snap several photos quickly, increasing your chances of catching something strange in action.

2. Skip the Flash

Flashes might seem like a good idea, but they often ruin the mood—and create fake “ghost orbs” from dust or bugs. Instead, let the city’s natural nighttime lights work their magic. Historic buildings, glowing streetlights, and the occasional flickering sign give your photos a more authentic haunted feel.

3. Focus on Empty Spaces

Some of the creepiest ghost photos don’t include people at all. Empty hallways, staircases, and doorways in historic buildings like the Hermitage Hotel or Fort Negley can sometimes reveal… something unexpected. Look for shadows or strange shapes where no one is supposed to be.

4. Pay Attention to Reflections

Windows, mirrors, and shiny surfaces can all capture ghostly images in surprising ways. On a Nashville ghost tour, keep an eye out for reflections in old windows, polished doors, or even display cases. You might catch something lurking behind you or off to the side, just out of reach.

5. Hold Still

A blurry photo won’t convince anyone (except maybe your skeptic friends). Keep your elbows tucked in and hold your camera steady. Use burst mode to take multiple shots quickly—sometimes a ghost appears in only one of them, vanishing by the next frame.

6. Experiment with Video

Short video clips can capture movement, flickering lights, or unexplained shadows that photos miss. You don’t need a Hollywood setup—just hold your camera steady and record for a few seconds. Later, you can watch in slow motion and see if anything spooky shows up.

7. Check Your Photos While on the Tour

Don’t wait until you’re home to see if you caught anything. Reviewing your shots on the spot lets you adjust angles, lighting, or timing for better results. Sometimes a second take can make the difference between a ghostly blur and an actual “what the heck is that?” moment.

8. Keep an Open Mind (and a Sense of Humor)

Even the best-prepared ghost hunter won’t always get a perfect photo. Some “evidence” is dust, some is reflections, and some… well, might actually be something unexplained. Either way, the fun is in the experience. Laugh at the unexpected, marvel at the eerie, and enjoy the haunted stories your guide shares.

Final Thoughts

A Nashville Adventures ghost tour is about more than just spotting spirits—it’s about exploring the city’s haunted history, enjoying a little thrill, and making memories. With the right gear, patience, and a little bit of courage, you might just catch something incredible.

Even if you don’t, you’ll have some great photos, funny stories, and a new appreciation for the spooky side of Music City. So grab your camera, focus on the shadows, and get ready. The ghosts of Nashville are waiting… and maybe they’re ready for their close-up.