Flat Lay vs. Ghost Mannequin Photography - Which is better for ecommerce retailers?

In the competitive world of online fashion retail, aesthetic is everything. According to Shopify data, online retailers that feature products in professional photographs experience a 33% higher conversion rate compared to those with lower-quality images.

Flat lay photography helps showcase Hang Eleven's unique style

But not everyone has the time and resources to execute a full-scale model shoot. The most cost-effective way to achieve professional look? Using ghost mannequin and flat lay photography techniques. This article explores the difference between the two styles and will help you decide which one is right for you.

What's the difference between Flat Lay and Ghost Mannequin product photography?

Flat lay and ghost mannequin photography are two distinct techniques used in e-commerce and fashion product photography, each with its own advantages and applications.

Before & After Flat Lay Editing

Flat lay photography typically captures products from above, creating a clean 2D effect.

• Perfect for showcasing styling with multiple products

• More room for creative expression and brand elements

• Great for use on social media and in marketing assets

Before & After Ghost Mannequin Editing

Ghost mannequin photography adds depth by using a mannequin to create a 3D effect to the clothing.

• Highlights product fit and gives it a realistic structure

• Clean professional look of a high-end retailer

• Great for drawing attention to product details on ecommerce pages

Comparing Flat Lay vs. Ghost Mannequin product photography for ecommerce

When choosing the best way to photograph your products, there's no one size fits all solution. Deciding between flat lay and ghost mannequin photography depends on several factors:

1. Brand aesthetic

   Are you a lifestyle brand with a wide selection of products? Or a high-end niche retailer?

2. Type of clothing

   Do your garments look great on a hangar? Or do they need a form to show off the fit?

3. Target audience

   Are your customers finding you primarily through social media? Or are they more likely to be familiar with your physical store?

4. Budget constraints

   Do you have minimal resources to make this work? Or can you invest in a variety of images?

Below is a comparison to help you understand the differences between flat lay and ghost mannequin photography.

Technique	Use it for	Pros	Cons
Ghost Mannequin Photography (Invisible/3D Mannequin)	Showing garment fit and shape Giving structure to tops, dresses, and jackets Highlighting detail and construction of high-end pieces	Reduces likelihood of fit-related returns More cost-effecitve then hiring models Increases customer confidence when purchasing high-priced items	Higher production & editing costs compared to flat lay May look generic or lack the lifestyle appeal Not suitable for all clothing types
Flat Lay Photography	Creating a unique brand aesthetic Showing creative styling with props and accessories Social media and marketing assets as well as online store	Highlights unique brand style and showcase multiple products Budget-friendly option requiring minimal resources Versatile images for both ecommerce and marketing purposes	May not highlight fit as well as ghost mannequin Requires eye for styling and composition Not suitable for showcasing detailed or unstructured garments

How to decide which type of photography is right for you

Both techniques offer a more affordable alternative to model photography. The question is, which photography style will increase your sales?

Here's our advice:

• Use flat lay for a more casual, lifestyle-oriented look or when showcasing multiple products together.

• Choose ghost mannequin for a sleek professional appearance, especially for structured garments like dresses and jackets.

For the most cost-effective approach, consider using a mix of both techniques. Use ghost mannequin for key items that need to show fit and structure, and flat lay for accessories or and more marketing-oriented images.

Ghost mannequin photography highlights fit, design, and structure

Looking to increase your sales with professional product photography?

You know you need to upgrade your images but you don't know where to start. Luckily the team at Studio Uppix is here to help.

We are a full-service photography studio with years of experience boosting ecommerce sales with high quality product photos. From flat lays to look books, our team will partner with you to elevate your brand with stunning visuals. Send us a request and we'll get back to you within 48 hours.

Contact Studio Uppix

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