Getting started in the field of Sasquatch research is actually a rather simple prospect. Grab a camera (if you wish), find a spot, and start looking. Pretty simple right? There is something else that I think you need to do before getting going though.
Right from the start, you have to decide something. Are you into 'Squatchin to prove to the world at large that these creatures might exist? Are you into it to prove only to yourself that they might be out there? Or, are you just into the chase to have some fun?
Any of these are perfectly fine, but a couple require only your time, while the other requires gear and time spent researching.
Having fun is great. Grab some friends and hit the woods. Time spent outdoors is always rewarding. Nothing special is needed as far as gear goes.
If you are out to prove that the Sasquatch does in fact exist, there's alot more to it.
First of all, if you are going to be outdoors for any extended period of time, your going to need some supplies. The first of which is the correct clothing.
It can be a tough road to hoe if you venture out in sweats and sneakers. The best way to have a pleasant experience is to be prepared. Nothing ruins a day faster and puts a damper on your enthusiasm than getting soaked if you get caught outside and the rain starts. Especially if you have a long wet slog if front of you to get back to shelter.
After clothing and shoes, you have to decide on recording gear. Video and audio recording gear comes in all types. Cheaper consumer grade electronics are fine, but as you go up in quality, the price also goes up.
Starting out with a simple audio recorder and camcorder are the way to go. Looking around you can fine suitable, relatively inexpensive electronics that would work fine for 'Squatchin.
As time goes on, you might find that you desire something better than what you already own. Experience will give you clues as to what you might want to buy. Here's an example:
You can walk into any Staples store and buy a decent audio recorder for 50 bucks. Great toy. Works fine. After awhile though you will realize that a microphone added to the recorder would allow for better recordings. After a time, you might want a audio recorder that has a removable SD card. To transfer audio from a recorder without a removable card, you are left with having to play the audio on the recorder and re-recording it into your computer if you want to analyze it or share with others. That's fine, but you have to realize that this method will result in poorer audio quality.
I've always been a fan of buying the best that you can afford, but there is a caveat. You go out and buy an audio recorder for 500 bucks right off the bat. Nice. I'm sure it's a great tool. But, what happens with it if you decide that 'Squatchin just isn't your thing? Sell it, give it away, put it in a drawer for "someday". All great options. But wouldn't it be alot less hassle to start out with some basic gear and see how things go?
If you find that "Squatchin is something you want to pursue, then do your research and see what people who've been in the field for awhile are currently using. Ask on the NESRA forum what other researchers are using to capture potential audio evidence.
To Be Continued.....
