What is Ghost Mannequin Photography?
Ghost mannequin (also called invisible mannequin or hollow man) is a photography technique that makes clothing appear to be worn by an invisible person. The garment maintains its 3D shape and form without any visible mannequin or model.
This technique is essential for professional clothing photography, used by major brands like ASOS, Zara, and Nike.
Why Use Ghost Mannequin?
- Shows fit and shape - customers see how garment drapes
- Professional appearance - consistent, clean look
- Cost effective - no model fees
- Scalable - photograph hundreds of items consistently
- Focus on product - no distraction from model
Equipment Needed
Essential
- Mannequin - neck block type with removable parts
- Camera - DSLR, mirrorless, or quality smartphone
- Tripod - essential for consistent positioning
- Lighting - softbox or natural light setup
- White backdrop - seamless paper or fabric
Recommended Mannequin Types
- Torso with removable neck - for tops, shirts, jackets
- Full body - for dresses, jumpsuits
- Bust form - for t-shirts and casual wear
- Lower body - for pants, skirts
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Prepare the Garment
- Steam or iron to remove wrinkles
- Style with pins on back if needed
- Ensure buttons, zippers are positioned correctly
- Use tissue paper to add volume if needed
Step 2: Photograph the Front
- Dress mannequin with garment
- Position camera straight-on at center height
- Ensure even lighting (no harsh shadows)
- Capture full garment with some margin
Step 3: Photograph the Inside/Back
The key to ghost mannequin effect:
- Remove garment from mannequin
- Turn inside out or photograph inner neck/collar area
- Lay flat or use foam insert to show inner construction
- Capture neck label and inner seams area
Step 4: Post-Processing
Combine the images:
- Remove background from front shot
- Remove visible mannequin parts
- Cut out inner portion from back shot
- Composite together in editing software
- Blend edges for seamless result
Using AI for Ghost Mannequin Effect
Modern AI tools can simplify the process:
Background Removal
Pixelift Background Remover can:
- Remove white background instantly
- Handle complex edges and details
- Preserve fabric textures
- Create clean cutouts for compositing
AI Compositing
Some AI tools can now generate the inner portion automatically, reducing the need for multiple shots.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Neckline Issues
Problem: Mannequin neck visible through collar
Solution: Use neck block mannequin, or photograph collar separately
Arm Holes
Problem: Mannequin visible through sleeveless garments
Solution: Photograph inner armhole area separately
Thin Fabrics
Problem: Mannequin shows through sheer materials
Solution: Use white mannequin, or photograph on hanger with careful styling
Inconsistent Lighting
Problem: Front and inner shots don't match
Solution: Keep exact same lighting setup for all shots
Ghost Mannequin for Different Garments
T-Shirts and Casual Tops
- Simple neck insert usually sufficient
- May not need inner shot for crew necks
- V-necks require more careful compositing
Dress Shirts
- More complex due to collar and buttons
- May need collar photographed separately
- Show cuff details in additional shots
Jackets and Coats
- Most complex - multiple inner areas
- Inner collar, lapels need separate shots
- Show lining quality if applicable
Pants
- Use lower body mannequin or hang on waist form
- Show waistband interior
- May need leg form for structure
Alternatives to Ghost Mannequin
- Flat lay - simple but loses 3D effect
- Hanger shots - quick but looks less professional
- Model photography - best for lifestyle, higher cost
- 3D rendering - emerging technology for some products
Cost Comparison
- DIY ghost mannequin: $200-500 initial setup, then free
- Outsourced per image: $5-15 per image
- Model photography: $100-500 per look
Summary
Ghost mannequin photography creates professional clothing images that show fit and form without distracting mannequins or expensive models. With the right equipment and technique - plus AI tools for post-processing - any clothing seller can achieve this professional look.