Ghost mannequin photography is one of those styles that uses tricks such as posing the garment as if the body is present but not visible. This approach has a high potential of supplying more helpful details with more items, including those that are somewhat minor, though they could trigger a consumer to purchase.
In this guide, we will discuss ghost mannequin photography, its specifics, and all stages of the shooting process to get high-quality and visually appealing photos of your products. It will also teach about every phase and how each can increase your products’ exposure and attractiveness on the web.
Key Takeaways Of Ghost Mannequin Photography
- Highlights Garment Fit: The clothing detail and the fit are presented from multiple angles.
- Uniform Presentation: Gives a standardized professional appearance among all product images.
- Boosts Consumer Confidence: It provides realistic, thorough explanations that make it easier for people to shop online.
- Improves Visibility: Shift the focus entirely on the garment.
- Reinforces Brand Consistency: Achieves visual consistency across all brand elements.
What Is Ghost Mannequin Photography?
Ghost Mannequin Photography is commonly used in e-commerce today, especially in fashion, where business owners want to illustrate their clothing line without models. This technique comprises imaging apparel with a mannequin and then erasing the mannequin in the editing stage.
The effect produced is a very tidy 3-dimensional image of the apparel. It lets the customers see how the apparel would sit on their bodies or how its structure looks without the interference of a human or a mannequin.
The ghost mannequin effect photography is a creative approach to showcasing apparel that carries a humane dimension instead of flat pictures. It’s a cost-effective solution for startups or businesses with limited budgets.
How To Do Ghost Mannequin Photography?
Ghost Mannequin Photography is an excellent option for e-commerce sites that want to present their garments professionally and cost-effectively. Follow the steps below on how to do it:
1. Choosing and Positioning a Mannequin
The first step is determining which mannequin to take with you. A matching mannequin will enhance the presentation of your clothes regardless of your chosen style and size.
It is best to take a matte white mannequin, as it is not only less obtrusive but also easy to remove and unlikely to confuse in post-editing. Realistic mannequins wearing features also have a place, but sometimes, it’s a simpler, more versatile method to use abstract mannequins.
The mannequin should be dressed so that the clothes are comfortably fitted, meaning there are no strains on the limbs. If desired, one can pin or tuck any extra fabric to make it less bulky.
In addition, these mannequins can have removable elements, such as arms or necks, that make it easier to achieve the ghost effect.
If you’re using a model instead, ensure their hair is tied up and they are dressed in boring clothes not to cause any annoyance or problem while editing the images. This is very important because the proper positioning of the garment will assist in its ability to retain its shape.
2. Setting Up Photography Equipment
Here is the detailed step-by-step process of setting up the equipment:
Camera Selection for Ghost Mannequin Photography
Regarding camera selection for ghost mannequin photography, a good-quality DSLR or mirror-less camera is undoubtedly the perfect option. With those, one can capture finer details and have a lot of room for post-processing. But if you are trying to figure out where to get a ghost mannequin photography shot, high-quality smartphones with good lenses and manual settings will do.
Camera Settings:
For aberration-free output, one should switch the camera to manual settings. This allows one to determine the desiraed exposure, ISO, and aperture combinations. A low ISO value, such as within the range of 100-200 (depending on the camera being used), reduces image noise, and an aperture of f/8 and upwards extends the depth of field to cover most of the cloth in focus.
A tripod should be utilized to avoid shaky footage, and the camera should be rotated at the same angle for all shots.
Lighting Setup for Ghost Mannequin Photography
A consistent light source helps perfect ghost mannequin photography. Natural light is good footage while shooting; however, when shooting indoors, it is preferable to use a studio light. Use softboxes or diffusers so there are no highlights on the cloth and few shadows. Start by facing the lights towards the clinic or body double so that the mannequin does not get lit from behind.
Without studio lighting equipment, natural light from a window in a room will also suffice, but be ready to experiment with the angles to achieve even light distribution.
3. Photographing the Clothing Product
Once you are ready with the mannequin, the camera, and the lighting, the next step is to click the clothing. The most important thing needed in ghost mannequin effect photography is getting several pictures that will then be integrated.
When placed on a mannequin, capture images of the garment from the front, back, and sides. In each photograph, ensure that any essential areas of the garment are not hidden behind the body of a mannequin or a model.
For instance, when photographing a shirt, take both the front view and the back view. In the case of a mannequin with removable arms to be used in post-production, also take a picture of the inner portion of the doll’s sleeves so that it’s possible to join the image later on.
Do not angle the camera towards the garment so that it will be disturbed. The ideal camera angle for blouses is at the breast level, and for trousers, the camera level is at the waist. It will ensure that the proportions of the garment are accurately captured. Maintain the exact distance between the camera and the mannequin for all the pictures taken to maintain consistency.
How to Edit Ghost Mannequin Photography in Photoshop
Editing Ghost Mannequin Photography in Photoshop is a demanding and careful process. Please follow these steps to achieve the “ghost” effect, in which neither the mannequin nor the model is present; only the product is presented.
Step 1. Launch Adobe Photoshop and Open the Image file
Let’s begin by launching Adobe Photoshop and opening a handy image file: a photo of your clothing product worn on a mannequin. This is done by using a simple command: File > Open and looking for the correct file on the disk. To achieve effective results, download the image in a high-resolution version.
Step 2. Product Layer Unlocking
When the image is landed, the next step is to unlock the product’s layer. This is very important. Most images come with a locked background layer, so it is necessary to find one to unlock.
Go to the Layers Panel on the right of your screen. Click on the lock icon beside the background image. This will change the locked background image layer to an editable layer.
Step 3: Clipping with the Pen Tools
Apply the Pen Tool to more effectively separate the clothing item from the model. The Pen Tool lets you click and draw areas around the clothing articles. Select the Pen Tool from the toolbar on the left or press P on the keyboard.
Click and hold while drawing a circular motion towards the edges of the clothing, and click again to create anchoring points. This is done so that the clothing cutout achieves maximum cutout accuracy.
Step 4: Adjust Anchor Point If Needed
While using the Pen Tool, you may adjust your anchor points to produce tight curves or straight lines more effectively. At times when you have to move an anchor point or wish to change its settings, keep the Ctrl key down and click on the selected area. You can also set anchor points on the lines, drag them, and create bends on the path.
Step 5: Click CTRL+ Enter To Make Selection From Path
Once you have completed the outline around the clothing product, you have to turn the path into a selection. To do this, press Ctrl + Enter on your keyboard.
This action will create a selection of the path you’ve drawn around the garment. Now, the selection area will be visible, with animated edges in the form of “marching ants”.
Step 6: Add a Mask and Remove the Background
The next task is removing the background after the garment has been selected. For this purpose, click and locate the Add Layer Mask button at the bottom of the Layers Panel.
If some parts of the dummy are showing, you can use the brush tool with the soft brush to paint over the mask area on the layer.
Step 7: Correct Lens Distortion for the Inner Label Picture
With this, you will have to work on the inner parts of the garment that you did not see in that original shot (for instance, the inner neck of a t-shirt or the inner side of its sleeves). Open the second image file that contains the inner part of the garment. Then go to the Filter menu and select Lens Correction.
Step 8: Attach the Inner Image with the T-Shirt Image
After the lens correction on the inside image, select the same and drag it over to the main garment image. It should be placed in a manner that it is inserted in the right location within the t-shirt to create an impression that the inside of the garment can be seen naturally.
Step 9: Apply Layer Style and Inner Shadow
You should use an effect in the Inner Shadow. Such effects are applied to the inside of the garment to provide shadow effects so that the garments appear modelled rather than flat. Move to the Layer Style and click on Inner Shadow from this menu.
Change the shadow’s distance, size and opacity until the garment’s inner elements blend well with the other layers of the product and appear quite ordinary.
Step 10: Finally Get Your Ghost Mannequin
5 Pro Tips For Ghost Mannequin Product Photography
Ghost mannequin photography is a helpful method for presenting clothes in an online store without the interference of an actual model or a mannequin. Perfect one up by taking into consideration these five tips provided by experts for ghost mannequin product photography:
Choose Appropriate Mannequins and Models
Determining the correct mannequin or model is paramount when learning how to photograph clothing for professional use. Use white mannequins with a matte finish, as they are pretty convenient for photo editing after the shoot. Ensure that the shape and size of the dummy closely resemble that of the clothing being photographed to avoid disproportionate images.
Get Comfortable with Using the Pen Tool for Clipping
The Pen Tool in Adobe Photoshop is undoubtedly the most essential tool for making frame cutouts for clothing outlines. Getting the Pen Tool and working with it to cut out shapes of the cloth and not the outline of the model requires practice.
It is crucial to capture any contrasting mitigating factors, such as a collar, model seams, and buttons, to have a seamless transition from mannequin to ghost concept.
Apply a Constant Lighting Setup
Lighting is very important in ghost mannequin photography techniques. It is best to use soft, diffused light sources to avoid harsh shadows and ensure the whole clothing is equally lit.
Light the model or garment by placing several lights so there won’t be unwanted shadows while flooding the subject with light.
Edit for Realism and Detail
Postproduction is editing where ends meet as far as ghost mannequin clothing photography is concerned. Adobe Photoshop or any equivalent is great at handling cutouts, cutout extracts to foreground vegetables, and masterly mixing wardrobes.
Make sure you include details, such as wrinkles, creases, and fabric patterns, which will tremendously generate realism in the resultant image.
Maintain a Clean and Simple Composition
In ghost mannequin photography, the most important element is the clothing. That’s why the colours for the background should be uncomplicated. There is often a lot of distraction if white or pale gray colors are used in the background.
For the utmost natural viewpoints of the garment on the mannequin, the camera should be aligned to the standing dummy at the same level at eye level. Stick to the plan and create the same framing and composition for all images in the product catalog if photography allows it.
Hire the Best Ghost Mannequin Photography Services
Here is the list of 5 Mannequin Photography Services providers to hire:
1. VSP Studios
For fashion clothing, VSP Studies specializes in ghost mannequin photography. They specialize in producing high-quality fashion photography that is pretty and effective in showcasing your clothing lines. Their knowledge in this area guarantees that your products will appear smart in the virtual world, which is very important for sales in this era of online business competition.
Reasons to Hire VSP Studios
- Experience and know-how in Ghost Mannequin Photography: We can easily construct the ghost mannequin effect using the advantages we have gained from practice and theory.
- Non-manipulative high-definition Stand-Alone Photographs: We achieve sharp images of your clothing that allow the viewer to appreciate the quality of your fabrics.
- Applicable Across Multiple Websites: The photos plan so well, especially the AMZ, Walmart, and Shopify, that the images will fit well and be seen without issues.
- Value For Money Services: You can get cost-effective services and discounts for bulk orders, including photography styling, post-production, and delivery of web files in one.
2. Space and Light Digital
It happened in 2002; a company named Space and Light Digital was established as one of the best image and video suppliers for online shops. It has been 18 years, and they have mastered the art of providing action images that attract online customers. Their services have helped over 580 businesses worldwide attract customers and increase their sales with persuasive images and videos.
Reasons to Hire Space and Light Digital
- Comprehensive Services: They offer services in product and fashion photography, video making, photo editing, and marketing.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: The 6,000-square-foot LA-based studio has all the necessary gear for your production needs and is easily accessible, with the possibility of viewing remotely as well.
- Proven Expertise: Thanks to the 18-year first, Space and Light Digital can provide high-quality photo and video services to improve your business’ presence on the World Wide Web.
- Global Reach and Local Talent: Trends may change, but the availability of the best models and creatives for work ensures that the output is quality, irrespective of other markets.
3. ClothingPhotography
Clothing Photography has 18 years of photographic experience in the fashion industry. Their large studio, only fifteen minutes from downtown Los Angeles, specializes in ghost mannequins, flat lay, and accessory photography. They give sufficient attention to each particular scheme: individual clients working with young brands and established names receive productive outcomes regardless of the project in hand.
Reasons to Hire ClothingPhotography
- Versatile Studio: Their capacity studio allows ghost mannequins and flat-lay photography, among other styles, to promote your garments and accessories effectively.
- Personalized Service: Their solutions are specific to each client’s project, whether it’s a fresh range or a retention campaign for an old brand.
- Industry Expertise: They have 18 years of experience in fashion photography, so they`ll have lots of knowledge and experience with any shoot.
- Comprehensive Portfolio: Their experience base is such that most products, including clothing, accessories, jewelry, and many others, can be perfectly captured.
4. Elena Vels Studio
At the Elena Vels Studio, the main focus is on ghost mannequin photography, one of the most essential practices of fashion accessory presentation. Since they work little with clothes, achieving clean, high-resolution, unclothed images free from wrinkles and adornments is possible. Concentrating not only on completing customer satisfaction and looking at aesthetic appeal but on their tender quality of encompassing everything to do with product photography for your products, they add value to your brand.
Reasons to Hire Elena Vels Studio
- High-Resolution and Artistic Style: Their images are not only high-resolution images but also styled works in which the fabrics are merged to exhibit a neat, crease-free feel.
- State-of-the-Art Equipment: They are equipped with the best photography equipment and employ the best photography techniques to produce excellent images required in a highly competitive business.
- Fast Turnaround: Elena Vels Studio provides effective services within moderate timelines, so you do not have to worry about time constraints to produce quality work.
- Collaborative Approach: They keep clients on board at every step of the process, as all clients are presented with valuable opinions and changes that will guarantee the captures since the copies will agree with the brand’s visual look.
Where To Outsource The Ghost Mannequin Photo Editing Services
Outsourcing ghost mannequin photo editing can lead to an easier workflow and great-quality product images. Here are a few of the best places to consider the practice:
1. Outsourced photo editing service
- Clipping Path Finder: Clipping Path Finder specializes in ghost mannequin editing and much more. We go beyond basic enhancements to deliver comprehensive editing solutions—including graphic superimposition, detailed retouching, and seamless background removal. Our experienced team ensures consistent, high-quality results tailored to various industries. Whether it’s a simple touch-up or complex image manipulation, we make your product photos stand out on any e-commerce platform.
2. Freelance Platforms
- Upwork: This platform helps you find freelance ghost mannequin photo editors. Portfolios, client feedback, and other information about freelancers can help you choose them for your project. It has competitive prices and many options that suit your project’s requirements.
- Fiverr: Fiverr has many freelance photo editors who can do ghost mannequin editing work. You can find several service packages and select freelancers based on their skills, prices, and reviews. It is an economical approach, even for one-off editing and minor projects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much do Ghost Mannequin Photography Services Cost?
The range of ghost mannequin photography can be very broad due to a number of factors, such as the quantity of the items, the complexity of the shoot, and the amount of post-production. In most cases, the rates fall between $20 and $100 for one image.
What is Ghost Mannequin Photo Editing?
Ghost mannequin photo editing is also designed to remove formal models from product images, giving the impression that any garment has been worn over the invisible figure of the mannequin. This technique helps the audience concentrate more on the clothing at hand and see how it is cut or designed.
What Questions Should I Ask Before Hiring a Product Photographer?
- What is your experience with ghost mannequin photography?
- Can you show me some of your past work?
- What are your rates, and how do you expect payment?
- How long does it take to edit and turn around?
- How will you go about managing projects with lots of work to be done?
How do I Prepare My Clothes for a Ghost Mannequin Photo Shoot?
Ensure that the garment are clean and shaped well without creases. Use the suitable fitting mannequins appropriate for the garments to ensure optimal results. Properly ensuring crisp, clear images become ideal and professionally shot.
Will a Ghost Mannequin Photography apply to various clothes?
Yes, ghost mannequin photography can be utilized on multiple kinds of clothing, including dresses, shirts, built-up jackets, and other accessories. Nevertheless, there are no bare garments that do not require additional styling or adjustments to look good in shots taken after the photo shoot.
How Do I Get the Best Quality from a Ghost Mannequin Photography Service?
To achieve excellent and desirable results, the photographer must be provided with detailed instructions and images. Make sure that the stylist is aware of what he/she intends to achieve. Moreover, picking a photographer or studio offering ghost mannequin services will help you achieve the required results comfortably.
Final Verdict
Ghost mannequin photography is one of the best methods for professionally presenting an apparel collection. By hiding the mannequins or models they have offered in the pictures, this technique emphasizes the fit and design of the dress, thereby providing a more precise impression of the product, which improves online purchases.
Ghost mannequin photography yields clear, crease-shy pictures, essential for any e-commerce business selling cloth products. Whether a new company or an existing one, this technique will significantly enhance the level of your goods for the target audience. To achieve the best effect, hire a professional photographer or company specializing in this type of photography and know your brand.