Ghost mannequin photography is a specialized technique used to showcase apparel and accessories without visible mannequins or models, creating an appealing "invisible" effect that highlights the product’s shape and fit. The success of ghost mannequin images largely depends on meticulous product preparation before the shoot. Properly preparing garments ensures smooth photography sessions and flawless post-production results. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prepare your products for ghost mannequin shots.
1. Select the Right Products
Not every garment works equally well with ghost ghost mannequin service mannequin photography. Choose products that will benefit from this style:
Clothing with defined shapes such as shirts, jackets, dresses, and outerwear.
Items where showing internal details (like collars, necklines, or linings) adds value.
Garments that can be easily styled on mannequins without excessive bulk or wrinkles.
Avoid overly delicate or shapeless fabrics that won’t hold form well on a mannequin.
2. Choose Appropriate Mannequins
The choice of mannequin plays a vital role in achieving the ghost mannequin effect.
Use detachable mannequins designed specifically for ghost mannequin photography, with removable necks, arms, and sometimes torsos.
Select mannequins that match the product’s size and shape to maintain a natural fit.
Ensure mannequins are clean and in good condition to prevent dust or blemishes affecting the shoot.
3. Clean and Inspect the Products
Before dressing the mannequin, garments must be pristine:
Launder or dry clean: Ensure clothes are fresh, clean, and odor-free.
Inspect for defects: Check for stains, tears, loose threads, or missing buttons.
Remove lint and dust: Use a lint roller or brush to eliminate any particles that could show up in high-resolution photos.
Repair minor damages: Sew loose hems or buttons and fix any minor issues that could detract from the product’s presentation.
4. Ironing and Steaming
Wrinkles and creases can ruin the polished look essential for professional product photography.
Use a garment steamer or iron to remove all wrinkles.
Pay special attention to collars, cuffs, and hems, which are focal points in ghost mannequin shots.
Steam the garment thoroughly after dressing the mannequin to smooth out any wrinkles caused by handling.
5. Styling the Garment on the Mannequin
How the garment sits on the mannequin is key to a natural and appealing presentation.
Dress the mannequin carefully: Position the garment so it fits snugly and follows natural contours.
Adjust collars and cuffs: Arrange collars to stand up or fold neatly, and straighten cuffs and sleeves.
Use pins or clips: Tuck in loose fabric or hold parts in place discreetly with pins hidden inside the garment.
Stuff where needed: Use tissue paper, foam, or padding to fill out areas like sleeves or shoulders to maintain shape.
Pay attention to symmetry: Ensure the garment looks balanced from all angles.
6. Prepare for Inner Shots
Ghost mannequin photography often requires shooting the garment’s interior (like inside the collar or neckline) to create the hollow, “ghostly” look.
Turn inside-out areas clean and neat.
Remove price tags or unwanted labels unless they are part of the branding.
Make sure inner fabric and seams are tidy and well-presented.