Product photos, also known as packshots, showcase the product without distractions. But which approach is the best? How many photos are needed to give a complete picture to your customers? What works best for your target audience? And how do you ensure a consistent experience for your customers?
At Exposar, we offer various methods to photograph your products. The industry standard is shooting the product on a mannequin, also known as a ghost mannequin. In this technique, a clothing item is placed on a mannequin, which is then removed in post-production. Products can also be shot on hangers, where the hanger may either remain in the image or be digitally removed. Finally, products can be photographed flat on a table. Each approach has its own advantages and disadvantages, which we will outline for you.
Mannequin:
This approach closely resembles reality, and the result can be easily visualized on a person. The fit of the product is clearly visible, and you can see how the fabric falls. The item can be shot from every angle. However, it is photographed on an ideal body shape that not everyone may relate to. The mannequin’s shape can sometimes be too prominent, especially with slim/tight-fit products. Additionally, it’s a market standard, making it less distinctive.
Hanging:
Products on hangers have a very natural drape. This method showcases the fabric’s qualities the best and creates a sense of movement through subtle shadows. It has an effortless, modern feel, and is particularly suitable for dresses and undergarments. Some major players in the industry use this style of photography because it’s more distinctive. However, the fit may not be as clear, especially for stretchy products (as there is no body to fill them out).
Flatlay:
This method is well-suited for baby and children’s clothing. It’s similar to the hanger style but doesn’t capture the subtle shadows in the product. Of course, it can also be used for adult clothing and offers more styling possibilities. Products can be given a more textured appearance by introducing more wrinkles or folding them in a certain way. Like with the hanger method, the fit may not always be clear, and it may not work for tight-fit clothing.
The number of images can be determined by the brand but is strongly dependent on the budget. Of course, a front view is essential to sell your product, but a back view can add value by providing consumers with a more complete picture (or only when, for example, there’s a print on the back). We strongly believe in detail shots that support or even replace a view. In these images, you can showcase product details or hidden features, as well as close-ups of the fabric or print. Detail shots can convince your customers by clarifying what makes the clothing item unique. This way, you can best simulate a physical experience online, which is ultimately what you want.
At Exposar, a combination can also be made, for example, shooting the product in 3D and adding a flat detail shot. If you are already a customer, and you want to explore the possibilities, let us know, and we’d be happy to see what we can do for you. If you’re not a customer yet, we can create a custom-made plan that translates all your wishes into a plan that suits your brand.
