Although a skeptic of the paranormal, I acknowledge the existence of what is commonly referred to as "psychokinesis" or "PK," in the context of it being a complicated, transitional evolutionary ability in some humans. My position is based on what I have personally witnessed in other experiments. But what is described herein is simply a photographic effect which, though sure to induce amazement in uninformed observers, should not be accepted as evidence of anything paranormal. [More on PK at the end of this discussion.]

Late one night while doing ongoing research on psychokinetic detection and application methods, I made an interesting discovery involving Polaroid instant photography: the ability to produce eerie, brightly colored images which I call low-light instant photograms. At least this was a personal discovery -- I don't know if others have already described this technique (Polaroid film that doesn't require peel-apart sections is a relatively young invention, introduced 20 years ago with the SX-70 camera), but I could find no mention of using instant photography in this manner in any book.

Follow these do-it-yourself instructions to produce your own "psychic" illusions:

1. Using a Spectra camera (my test instrument), switch off the flash to prevent accidental triggering. The exposure setting is irrelevant, since that circuitry will not activate during the process.

2. Open and insert a fresh pack of high-definition film. HD film was introduced in 1992 as an upgrade for the previous type (more about the film later). Discard the film pack's protective cover after it ejects.

3. Locate yourself, the camera, desired props (descibed next) and any witnesses in a dimly lit room. The level of visible light needed is surprisingly low. Everything should look dark and gray -- color should be imperceptable.

4. With the camera on a table edge or in your lap, open the film door, pull out the pack, and hold it in your hand (or set it on the table). Immediately place a selected prop (stencil, transparency, key, crucifix, or even your thumb [wipe first]) on the exposing film's surface. After about 10-20 seconds, quickly remove the prop, reinsert the pack and close the door. The developing film will automatically eject. Quickly place it in a light-sealed container and allow it to develop undisturbed for at least three minutes (the longer the better). Alternatively, it may be placed upside down on a flat surface or held against your body with full room lighting back on, though the results may not be as good.

5. Look at the photo. It should consist of a brownish silhouette or shadow image of the prop surrounded by a yellow background, or yellowish against a white background (various shades of green have also been produced). Subsequent tests have proven that the radiation involved can even pass through an ordinary piece of white paper, still producing the images on the film. Practice and experiment to achieve the best results.