When it comes to selling clothes online, the most significant aspect of the product page is the photos. Irrespective of how well you describe your product, nothing converts a shopper into a customer more effectively than high-quality product photography. Not only should your website provide high-quality, detailed photos, but also show multiple angles and views.
Anyone who has worked in the clothing industry knows how difficult it can be to show a customer how a garment will fit without wasting money or diverting their attention. Customers need to be able to visualize the form of a product. Traditional flat or folded displays don't allow for this. To sell more of your fashion and apparel products, you need photos of them being worn. But models are pricey and mannequins are impersonal. Thankfully you have options! Enter the ghost mannequin.
what is the ghost mannequin effect?
The "ghost mannequin" effect is an effective post-production technique for clothing product photography that eliminates the need for a showcase. After photographing a product on a model or mannequin multiple times, you can use the "ghost mannequin" effect to digitally remove the model or mannequin from the final image. The end result is an image that looks realistic and doesn't distract customers from your product.
what is the advantage of using ghost mannequins vs. live models?
Although using a model to photograph your products is a fantastic method to promote your brand's values, it also runs the risk of turning off potential buyers. Here are the advantages of using ghost mannequins vs. full-body models.
1. cost-efficiency
Ghost mannequin photography is significantly less expensive than employing a model. This allows you to spend on other parts of your business while obtaining stunning product shots.
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2. consistency
It's human nature to look for and appreciate symmetry and order. With a ghost mannequin's help, you can establish brand consistency and strengthen client loyalty. Maintaining a uniform aesthetic throughout all of your offerings gives off an air of professionalism. It assures clients that whatever they purchase from you will be of the highest quality.
3. clarity and transparency
Ghost mannequins are ideal for showcasing each item's form, style, and drape to ensure consistency in client expectations. Clients will return eagerly for more if they feel comfortable with the products they buy from you.
4. ghost mannequins don't distract the customer
In some cases, having models appear in product pictures can have an unintended negative impact. The models or the setting can distract customers' attention from your products. With ghost mannequins, the customer's attention is on your product.
5. ghost mannequins are allowed in several marketplaces
Market places such as Amazon do not allow you to use product photos that feature live models. Therefore, a ghost mannequin is going to be of assistance to you in this regard.
6. ghost mannequin shoots take less time
Using a ghost Mannequin is quicker than hiring a model. A model's hiring will necessitate the services of a director and a makeup artist. Models need time to change into new outfits for each shoot, and you also need to factor in any necessary touch-ups to their appearance.
7. readily available
Mannequins are convenient and you can easily purchase one online and have it delivered to your doorstep. With ghost mannequins, you don't have to worry about paying for overtime or dealing with last-minute cancellations.
8. easy product fit
Mannequins are a great way to showcase various items, and you won't have to waste time searching for the right models. With a mannequin, it is simple to find the perfect fit by using the correct dimensions.
how to execute the ghost mannequin effect
Achieving the ghost mannequin effect can be challenging. Here is a guide to creating the ghost mannequin effect for your product photography. We'll use a simple technique of merging two product photographs to create the desired effect. Remember that understanding how to shoot your products will help the post-production process go more smoothly.
1. choose a mannequin
Always use white or translucent mannequins for ghost mannequin photos as they easily blend with the background. In some instances, dress forms are superior for highlighting the details and structure of garments. Use matte white mannequins as they are non-reflective and simplify the editing process.
2. setup process
Proper studio lighting is essential for taking photos of ghost mannequins. Make sure your studio has plenty of photography lights, reflectors, and umbrellas.
If you want your mannequins to look their best, you'll need to invest in some clips, hangers, styling pins, and busts so that you can display your garments properly. We want to avoid the fabric draping in an unnatural way and wrinkles as much as possible.
If you want to take clear pictures of fine details without any blurring, a telephoto lens is the way to go. Get ready to take some rock-steady photos, and don't forget your tripod!
3. photographing the outfit
After assembling the necessary equipment, it is time to photograph your products. Remember that photographing an outfit from an excessively high or low angle can be unattractive. Professionals generally photograph products at chest height.
The first step is to take photos of the clothing from both the front and rear of the model or mannequin, then flip each item of clothing inside out. Prepare a foam board for each item of clothing, then photograph both sides. When the photographs are blended together, the board shots depict the inside of the garment. If you're using shirts or dresses, make sure the collar is open so that the lining shows.
4. launch Photoshop and create layers
Launch Photoshop and load the pictures of the mannequin and the foam board. Choose the photo of your model and create a new background layer. Whiteout that layer and it will become your final background color. Labeling your layers helps you keep track of what's what and keeps you organized.
5. choose a selection tool for selecting the product image
The next step is to choose the item in your mannequin image. Focus in close and pick a selection tool that suits your needs. Selection tools include quick selection, magic wand, or lasso.
6. refine and place your mask
After you've chosen everything you need, you can tighten your mask to get rid of the background and the mannequin. Choose the "Refine Edge" option from the "Select" menu to accomplish this. After selecting "OK" in the "Refine Edge" dialogue box, apply a mask to the layer containing your clothing. Your finished output should now be seen floating in front of the blank white background you created before. Improve the product's aesthetic by further honing the mask and smoothing off the edges as needed.
7. work on the foam board image
The next step is to flip your focus to the foam board product image and repeat step four, five, and six. Although this product image style may appear strange at first, having one to work with is crucial. By turning the product over and taking a picture of the back, you can display the product's inner workings and create the whole mannequin effect. Make a new layer, then use the selection tool to cut out the product and work on refining your mask.
8. combine the images
When the masks in both the foam board and ghost mannequin photos are clean and precise, you can simply copy the mask from the foam board image and paste it into the ghost mannequin image. Arrange the layers so that the foam board's picture is below the mannequin's image. The next step is to move the foam board layer behind the mannequin and shape it so that it curves gently down from the shoulder area.
9. clean up the foam board layer
Now is a good time to cover your mannequin layer and clean up the foam board layer by brushing off any unwanted areas. Make sure the layers are neat and there are no creases or wrinkles. Pay specific attention to the neck and shoulders.
10. add shadows and save
Create depth by adding a shadow between the two levels. Remember to save a copy of the Photoshop file that includes every layer. Once you've finished working on a layer file, you should merge or flatten all of the layers into a single file before saving it. Adding shadows is the final step in giving your image a polished lifelike look.
get started with ghost mannequin photography through soona
Without models or backgrounds to compete with the focus on the object, ghost mannequins in photography are an effective approach to presenting your products. However, creating the ghost mannequin effect can take some time and energy. Fortunately, you don't need to do it by yourself!
soona offers you a virtual production platform to create your own content. Get started with our new Fashion Starter Pack to help bring your product photo visions to life. Are you ready to make your products stand out? Book a shoot with us today!
When it comes to selling clothes online, the most significant aspect of the product page is the photos. Irrespective of how well you describe your product, nothing converts a shopper into a customer more effectively than high-quality product photography. Not only should your website provide high-quality, detailed photos, but also show multiple angles and views.
Anyone who has worked in the clothing industry knows how difficult it can be to show a customer how a garment will fit without wasting money or diverting their attention. Customers need to be able to visualize the form of a product. Traditional flat or folded displays don't allow for this. To sell more of your fashion and apparel products, you need photos of them being worn. But models are pricey and mannequins are impersonal. Thankfully you have options! Enter the ghost mannequin.
what is the ghost mannequin effect?
The "ghost mannequin" effect is an effective post-production technique for clothing product photography that eliminates the need for a showcase. After photographing a product on a model or mannequin multiple times, you can use the "ghost mannequin" effect to digitally remove the model or mannequin from the final image. The end result is an image that looks realistic and doesn't distract customers from your product.
what is the advantage of using ghost mannequins vs. live models?
Although using a model to photograph your products is a fantastic method to promote your brand's values, it also runs the risk of turning off potential buyers. Here are the advantages of using ghost mannequins vs. full-body models.
1. cost-efficiency
Ghost mannequin photography is significantly less expensive than employing a model. This allows you to spend on other parts of your business while obtaining stunning product shots.
{{studio-ad="/external-components"}}
2. consistency
It's human nature to look for and appreciate symmetry and order. With a ghost mannequin's help, you can establish brand consistency and strengthen client loyalty. Maintaining a uniform aesthetic throughout all of your offerings gives off an air of professionalism. It assures clients that whatever they purchase from you will be of the highest quality.
3. clarity and transparency
Ghost mannequins are ideal for showcasing each item's form, style, and drape to ensure consistency in client expectations. Clients will return eagerly for more if they feel comfortable with the products they buy from you.
4. ghost mannequins don't distract the customer
In some cases, having models appear in product pictures can have an unintended negative impact. The models or the setting can distract customers' attention from your products. With ghost mannequins, the customer's attention is on your product.
5. ghost mannequins are allowed in several marketplaces
Market places such as Amazon do not allow you to use product photos that feature live models. Therefore, a ghost mannequin is going to be of assistance to you in this regard.
6. ghost mannequin shoots take less time
Using a ghost Mannequin is quicker than hiring a model. A model's hiring will necessitate the services of a director and a makeup artist. Models need time to change into new outfits for each shoot, and you also need to factor in any necessary touch-ups to their appearance.
7. readily available
Mannequins are convenient and you can easily purchase one online and have it delivered to your doorstep. With ghost mannequins, you don't have to worry about paying for overtime or dealing with last-minute cancellations.
8. easy product fit
Mannequins are a great way to showcase various items, and you won't have to waste time searching for the right models. With a mannequin, it is simple to find the perfect fit by using the correct dimensions.
how to execute the ghost mannequin effect
Achieving the ghost mannequin effect can be challenging. Here is a guide to creating the ghost mannequin effect for your product photography. We'll use a simple technique of merging two product photographs to create the desired effect. Remember that understanding how to shoot your products will help the post-production process go more smoothly.
1. choose a mannequin
Always use white or translucent mannequins for ghost mannequin photos as they easily blend with the background. In some instances, dress forms are superior for highlighting the details and structure of garments. Use matte white mannequins as they are non-reflective and simplify the editing process.
2. setup process
Proper studio lighting is essential for taking photos of ghost mannequins. Make sure your studio has plenty of photography lights, reflectors, and umbrellas.
If you want your mannequins to look their best, you'll need to invest in some clips, hangers, styling pins, and busts so that you can display your garments properly. We want to avoid the fabric draping in an unnatural way and wrinkles as much as possible.
If you want to take clear pictures of fine details without any blurring, a telephoto lens is the way to go. Get ready to take some rock-steady photos, and don't forget your tripod!
3. photographing the outfit
After assembling the necessary equipment, it is time to photograph your products. Remember that photographing an outfit from an excessively high or low angle can be unattractive. Professionals generally photograph products at chest height.
The first step is to take photos of the clothing from both the front and rear of the model or mannequin, then flip each item of clothing inside out. Prepare a foam board for each item of clothing, then photograph both sides. When the photographs are blended together, the board shots depict the inside of the garment. If you're using shirts or dresses, make sure the collar is open so that the lining shows.
4. launch Photoshop and create layers
Launch Photoshop and load the pictures of the mannequin and the foam board. Choose the photo of your model and create a new background layer. Whiteout that layer and it will become your final background color. Labeling your layers helps you keep track of what's what and keeps you organized.
5. choose a selection tool for selecting the product image
The next step is to choose the item in your mannequin image. Focus in close and pick a selection tool that suits your needs. Selection tools include quick selection, magic wand, or lasso.
6. refine and place your mask
After you've chosen everything you need, you can tighten your mask to get rid of the background and the mannequin. Choose the "Refine Edge" option from the "Select" menu to accomplish this. After selecting "OK" in the "Refine Edge" dialogue box, apply a mask to the layer containing your clothing. Your finished output should now be seen floating in front of the blank white background you created before. Improve the product's aesthetic by further honing the mask and smoothing off the edges as needed.
7. work on the foam board image
The next step is to flip your focus to the foam board product image and repeat step four, five, and six. Although this product image style may appear strange at first, having one to work with is crucial. By turning the product over and taking a picture of the back, you can display the product's inner workings and create the whole mannequin effect. Make a new layer, then use the selection tool to cut out the product and work on refining your mask.
8. combine the images
When the masks in both the foam board and ghost mannequin photos are clean and precise, you can simply copy the mask from the foam board image and paste it into the ghost mannequin image. Arrange the layers so that the foam board's picture is below the mannequin's image. The next step is to move the foam board layer behind the mannequin and shape it so that it curves gently down from the shoulder area.
9. clean up the foam board layer
Now is a good time to cover your mannequin layer and clean up the foam board layer by brushing off any unwanted areas. Make sure the layers are neat and there are no creases or wrinkles. Pay specific attention to the neck and shoulders.
10. add shadows and save
Create depth by adding a shadow between the two levels. Remember to save a copy of the Photoshop file that includes every layer. Once you've finished working on a layer file, you should merge or flatten all of the layers into a single file before saving it. Adding shadows is the final step in giving your image a polished lifelike look.
get started with ghost mannequin photography through soona
Without models or backgrounds to compete with the focus on the object, ghost mannequins in photography are an effective approach to presenting your products. However, creating the ghost mannequin effect can take some time and energy. Fortunately, you don't need to do it by yourself!
soona offers you a virtual production platform to create your own content. Get started with our new Fashion Starter Pack to help bring your product photo visions to life. Are you ready to make your products stand out? Book a shoot with us today!
