How Much Does Ghost Mannequin Photography Cost?

Ghost mannequin creates a 3D effect, making garments look as if they are floating on an invisible mannequin. This gives products a professional, clean, and high-end presentation without distractions. But how much does it actually cost?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The price of ghost mannequin photography varies based on several factors, including image complexity, number of garments, post-production needs, and service provider location. Costs range anywhere from $0.89 per image for basic edits to $55 per garment for detailed, high-end photography.

Cost of Ghost Mannequin Photography: What Does It Depend On?

1. Complexity of the Garment and Editing Required

Not all clothing items are created equal when it comes to ghost mannequin photography. Simple garments, like t-shirts and dresses, require minimal editing and cost less. Complex pieces, such as jackets, suits, or layered outfits, need multiple edits and can significantly increase the price.

Another key factor is the number of sections that need to be “jointed” together in post-production. If a piece requires additional edits to align sleeves, collars, or intricate details, expect to pay more for the extra work.

2. Number of Garments & Bulk Orders

Are you editing just a few images, or do you need thousands? The number of garments in a project directly impacts pricing. Many studios offer bulk discounts, which means the more images you need, the lower the per-image cost. For instance, a small order of 10 images may cost around $5 per image, while a bulk order of 500+ images may bring the price down to $1 – $2 per image.

3. Number of Shots Per Garment

How many angles do you need? A basic ghost mannequin image typically includes a front view, but adding back views, side angles, and detail close-ups will increase the price. Some brands require at least three views per garment to fully showcase the product, which can significantly raise the total cost.

4. Post-Production Editing & Retouching

Ghost mannequin photography isn’t just about removing the mannequin. Post-production plays a crucial role in refining the final image. This includes:

Removing wrinkles and creases to give garments a flawless look.
Adjusting lighting and shadows for a consistent, professional appearance.
Color correction to match real-life product colors.

Basic retouching is usually included in the base price, but high-end retouching (for luxury brands) can add extra costs. Some providers charge $3 – $10 per image for advanced edits.

5. Turnaround Time

Need your images fast? Rush orders come with premium pricing. Most standard turnaround times range from 3-5 business days, but if you need your images in 24-48 hours, expect to pay an additional $10 or more per image.

6. Additional Services & Add-Ons

Many studios offer extra services to enhance the final images. These include:

Clipping path services ($3+ per image).
Background removal (sometimes included, but often an extra fee).
Shadow addition for depth ($5+ per image).
Multiple color variations ($10 – $30 per image for color changes).

At Pixel Retouching, we provide affordable yet premium-quality ghost mannequin editing, offering everything from basic edits to high-end retouching. Whether you’re an Amazon seller, eCommerce brand, or high-fashion retailer, we ensure every image looks flawless.

Cost Breakdown: Pricing Models & Real Numbers

So, what does ghost mannequin photography actually cost? Here’s a breakdown of the most common pricing models:

1. Per Image Pricing (Most Common Model)

Service Type	Price Per Image
Basic ghost mannequin edit	$0.89 – $1.79
Complex ghost mannequin edit	$2 – $10
Front, back, and side views	$8 – $15
Clipping path & background removal	$3 – $10
Rush service (24-48 hours)	+$10 per image

2. Package Pricing

Some providers offer package deals based on the number of images or shots per garment.

Ghost Mannequin Package (3 angles per garment) → $80 per item.
Full Set (Front + Back + Detail Close-ups) → $15 – $55 per garment.

3. Hourly Rates

Some professional photography studios charge by the hour rather than per image. The average cost is $129+ per hour, which includes shooting, styling, and post-processing.

4. Custom Quote Pricing

For large-scale eCommerce projects or high-fashion brands, most studios provide custom pricing. If you need hundreds or thousands of images, it’s best to request a quote to get a bulk discount.

With Pixel Retouching’s Ghost Mannequin Service, we offer flexible pricing based on your project size and complexity. Whether you need 10 images or 10,000, we can tailor a package that suits your budget.

Cost Comparison: Ghost Mannequin vs. Other Photography Methods

If you’re considering ghost mannequin photography, you might also be comparing it to other methods. Here’s how it stacks up:

Photography Type	Average Cost	Pros	Cons
Ghost Mannequin	$0.89 – $55 per garment	3D effect, professional look, no need for live models	Editing-intensive
Live Models	$100 – $1,000 per session	Realistic, human appeal	Expensive, requires hiring models & stylists
Flat Lay Photography	$5 – $30 per image	Simple, cost-effective	2D look, lacks fit visualization

Ghost mannequin photography offers the best balance between cost and visual appeal, making it a top choice for e-commerce brands.

The ROI of Ghost Mannequin Photography

Investing in high-quality ghost mannequin photography isn’t just an expense—it’s a revenue booster. Here’s why:

Increased Sales: Professional images can boost conversion rates by up to 30%.
Reduced Returns: Clear, detailed images help customers make informed decisions.
Brand Consistency: Consistent visuals build trust and credibility.

At Pixel Retouching, we ensure that your product images are polished, professional, and ready to convert—at competitive prices.