Ghost Mannequin Photography

We offer a very high-quality ghost mannequin service at an affordable rate of £15 to £18 + vat per image, with no hidden extras. Our clients for ghost mannequin photography range from major fashion chains and department stores such as Fat Face and House of Fraser to lingerie makers and exclusive boutiques such as Natalie & Alanna, Fleur B, Laark, Fox and Rose, Peaks of London, and dozens more.

What is ghost mannequin photography?

Also known as invisible mannequin photography and 3d clothing photography, a ghost mannequin image shows an item of clothing with the shape of someone wearing it – but without a real human in view. Therefore it looks like an invisible ghost is wearing the clothing. In some examples you can see through the invisible body to the inner back of the garment. See the page on ghost mannequin styling for more detail about the different angles for ghost mannequins. Also scroll below the gallery on this page for more about our approach and technique for ghost mannequin photography.

Our approach to ghost mannequin photography

We have refined ghost mannequin photography to a fine art. Chief photographer Mike Ellis takes a measured approach to each subject, liaising closely with clients to work out the best styling for every individual garment. For example, one client may prefer the arms of their dress to look as if human arms are filling them out, whilst another client may prefer the arms of their knitwear to hang loosely to achieve the best effect for their brand image. A front facing angle may be most popular, but a 45-degree angle can work better for some subjects, such as maternity wear. We have a range of different sized mannequins and studio props we employ as needs dictate.

One of the main points we will establish as soon as possible is whether you want a front mannequin shot – a partial ghost that is highly suited to lingerie, lacy and strappy garments – or a full ghost mannequin, in which parts of the inner fabric of the garment can be seen. Some clients want several angles for each garment, e.g. a full ghost mannequin shot from the front, a shot from the back and a close up of some detail. We will give you a clear indication of the total price for the job.

See more of our notes about garment styling.

The ghost mannequin technique

1. We steam your garments and hang them one by one on the mannequin. We might use pins, tape and wires to encourage the fabric to hang in a pleasing way. This part of the process can take a long time as there’s often a lot of tweaking needed.

2. We set the studio lights to suit the subject and photograph the outside of the garment on the mannequin.

3. We take the garment off the mannequin and shoot the inner fabric where needed for the full ghost mannequin effect.

4. We do the cutting out and splicing together of the imagery in Photoshop using advanced techniques with our drawing tablets, masks, layering and liquify tools.