The ghost mannequin — or invisible mannequin — effect shows a garment with its full three-dimensional shape, but with the mannequin digitally removed. The result looks like an invisible person is wearing the clothes.
It starts on set. You photograph the garment on a mannequin for the main shot, then take a second photo of the inside label and neckline, usually with the garment laid flat or on a smaller form.
In editing, the two shots are combined: the mannequin is masked out, and the inside-neck photo is composited in so the collar looks natural from the back. Sleeves, hems, and openings are reconstructed so nothing looks cut off.
The payoff is big for apparel stores. Customers see how a piece drapes and fits without a distracting mannequin or the cost of a live model — and your product line looks consistent from item to item.
