One of the smartest ways to promote your offerings is to use mannequins in product images. Mannequins help keep your products in shape and make photos look professional and attractive. However, mannequins sometimes can take focus away from the product.
This is where ghost mannequin photography shines! Removing the mannequin creates a floating effect which directs customer attention to the product.
What is Ghost Mannequin Photography?

Ghost mannequin photography, also known as “invisible mannequin photography,” offers an extremely clever solution for retailers wanting to display their products without detracting from the visibility of a mannequin or with the high cost of live modelling.
However, mastering ghost mannequin photography comes with its challenges, which include:
- Choosing the right equipment for clear and in-focus shots.
- Refining post-production process and editing programs.
- Proper lighting and pose present an attractive angle towards the product.
The Role of 3D Effect in Ghost Mannequin
The 3D effect matters in mannequin photoshoots because it adds depth and makes the image look realistic. It shows product details like its texture and fit helping the customers visualise what they will buy. This effect increases engagement while making the product more appealing in e-commerce and fashion photography.
- It emphasises the texture of the product and details clearly
- It gives the product a good fit and form
- Increase customer’s confidence in product
- Boost visual appears in online stores
Tools and Equipment Needed

The right tools and equipment can help you to achieve high-quality ghost mannequin photography. Following are the tools and equipment for achieving professional results.
Camera and Lenses
Using a high-resolution camera and sharp lenses is essential for capturing the fine details and texture of the product.
Mannequin or clothing Stand
Choose a mannequin and clothing stand that fits the product’s natural shape. This proper fit enhances the overall look and smoothes the editing process for ghost mannequin photography.
Lighting Equipment
For good lighting during the photo shoot you’ll need the following equipment:
- Softbox light: For soft and even light without harsh shadows
- The LED light will provide constant, adjustable light during the photoshoot.
- Bounce light to fill shadows and enhance the details of the garment.
- Secure lights in place, allowing them to be positioned at various angles.
- Soften the lights for a balanced effect on the product
Step-by-Step Guide to Shooting Ghost Mannequin Photography
To create a stunning ghost mannequin image that highlights your product effectively, follow these steps:
1. Preparing the Mannequin
Use a mannequin whose parts you can detach for easier editing. However, if it isn’t available, don’t worry—you can still achieve amazing results without it.
2. Preparing the Product
The clothes should be wrinkle-free, clean and in the best condition before placing them on the mannequin. It enhances the product quality.
3. Positioning and Background
Position the mannequin in front of a clean white or light grey background for easier editing and prevention of colour casts. Also, ensure that the mannequin is straight and centrally framed.
4. Set Up Proper Lighting
Understanding lighting is important for vibrant and professional images. Soft, even lighting prevents sharp shadows and ensures the correct colouring and texture of the product.
5.Camera Positioning
Place the camera at the height of the garment for a neutral shot, with a perfectly stable lens on a tripod. Shoot at manual exposure settings so that the exposure is consistent every time. To get perfect and high-resolution shots, focus precisely on the product by setting single-point autofocus.
6. Shoot from Various Angles
Capture the product from various angles like back, front and sides. This way the customer will have a wider view of the product.
Mastering the 3D Effect in Post-Production
The 3D effect can enhance your images, giving them a dynamic and realistic feel that captures attention.

Adding 3D Effect
You can add the 3D effect using tools like Photoshop, along with specific 3D software. Use layering and shadow techniques to build up the 3D feel.
Highlight Depth
Apply shadows, lighting and gradients for the enhancement of the depth and texture of the image. Try different angles to add more dimension.
Product Enhancement
Some best practices for product enhancements focus on contrast, colour and sharpness. Adjust proper lighting and high-quality images for the best result.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Avoiding common mistakes in ghost mannequin photography is essential for producing professional and attractive images. Following are some common mistakes to avoid for optimal results.
Over Editing
One of the most common mistakes in ghost mannequin photoshoots is over-editing or under-lighting the product. It may give an unnatural appearance and smudges all the important details.
Ignoring Inner Detail
Ignoring inner garment details, like labels or stitching, can greatly affect the quality of the photo. These details contribute to product originality, a key factor in attracting online customers.
Unnatural 3D effect
For a ghost mannequin shot, the 3D effect should be natural. A poorly created 3D effect is enough to make any product look unnatural or odd.
FAQs
What is the app for the ghost mannequin post-production effect?
You can use the following apps for post-production effects:
- Adobe Photoshop
- GIMP
- CorelDRAW
- Capture One
- PhotoScape
- Pixlr
- Inpixio Photo Studio
What is a ghost mannequin or model?
It refers to the technique of removing the model or mannequin from a product photo by editing to create a floating effect, highlighting the product.
What camera settings are needed for the ghost effect?
Set your camera to its lowest ISO and set the shutter speed to a slow speed (long exposure), typically around 10 seconds.
Conclusion
Mastering ghost mannequin photography with 3D effects brings your product image to life and makes it look more realistic and attractive. Avoiding common mistakes can make the visual stunning for e-commerce marketing. If you want professionals for your ghost mannequin product photography, you can reach out to Let’s Media Solution for excellent results.