Tutorial: How Ghost Mannequins Make it Easy To Photograph Apparel -

This Youtube video will show you how easy it is to photograph a garment using a ghost mannequin mannequin. Below the video is a written version of the tutorial including the product and supplies you will need.

For more articles on ghost photography click here and to purchase a male, female or child ghost mannequin, visit MannequinMadness.com

Instead of being a trick done in imaging editing software, using a ghost mannequin gives the effect of the blazer being worn by an invisible person – known as the hollow man effect. This is done by removing arm and chest pieces so the mannequin is not visible in shot.

By using a ghost mannequin and following this tutorial, you can drastically cut the time it takes to achieve this hollow man effect – which is usually done by photographing the clothes inside out and compositing the two images in post-production.

First, let’s run through what you’ll be needing in this tutorial.

The equipment you need

Camera – Any camera will suffice but a Canon EOS 5D Mk III is recommended as a standard for professional product photography
Studio lighting – Continuous cool LED lamps are recommended to ensure exposure, shadows and contrast are kept consistent
Your blazer
Styling clips and pins – A combination of clips and pins can be used to give the blazer a more fitted look
A ghost mannequin – These modular mannequins have removable chest and arm pieces that become invisible in-shot.

If you are based in the United States or Canada, see the full range of invisible mannequins for product photography here.

If you are based in Europe, see a full range of invisible mannequins for product photography here.

Taking a front shot of the blazer

1. Remove the right pieces from the mannequin

Because the cuff of the blazer is quite deep, we’re removing as much of the chest as possible to show the inner lining.

We’re also removing the bottom parts so the bottom inner lining can be shown.

2. Dress the mannequin

Once the pieces are removed, simply dress the mannequin as shown on the right.

3. Align and straighten shoulders

It looks much more professional if the shoulders are always level with each other.

4. Style sleeves and details

Pull down the sleeves so they are even and make sure the bottom of the blazer is straight.

You can also use styling clips and pins at the back to create a tighter fit on your chosen mannequin.

And shoot…

This blog was written by Styleshoots, a European-based technology company that builds innovative imaging solutions for the world of fashion e-commerce. Their ‘all-in-one’ content creation machines are used by hundreds of brands around the world to take millions of pro-quality product photos every year.