At a time when artificial intelligence is transforming all sectors, fashion photography is also undergoing a silent but spectacular revolution. At the heart of this transformation are virtual models. These 100% digital avatars, generated by powerful algorithms, are no longer mere technological curiosities. Today, they are becoming concrete levers of performance, engagement and transformation for fashion brands - particularly in the luxury and e-commerce sectors. A pioneer in this transition, Artcare has established itself as a benchmark player in the creation of AI virtual mannequins and immersive experiences. Here's why this innovation is winning over more and more players in the fashion industry.

1. Drastic reduction in production costs

A traditional photo campaign with a human model involves a substantial budget: fees, make-up, travel, location rentals, technicians, post-production...

This reduction in costs is a strategic advantage, particularly for brands wishing to produce high-frequency content for their social networks, e-commerce sites or advertising campaigns. With the same budget, they can multiply visuals, test different stylistic approaches, or customize visuals for different markets.

2. Time savings and production agility

In the fashion world, speed is of the essence. Brands must constantly renew their collections and react to trends in real time. Organizing a photo shoot takes several months. By contrast, a virtual campaign can be designed, adjusted and finalized in a matter of weeks.

This agility means we can get to market much more quickly. A new collection can be digitally photographed and put online in just a few hours. This paves the way for more reactive formats such as "see now, buy now", or flash limited editions.

3. Unlimited creative flexibility

Virtual mannequins are entirely modular: morphology, skin color, hairstyle, posture, facial expression, shooting atmosphere... everything can be set. Unlike the physical constraints of a traditional shoot, here the imagination knows no boundaries.

This enables brands to build coherent universes, play with aesthetic or cultural codes, and adapt their visuals to different markets (Asia, Middle East, Europe) without having to call on different local models. Artcare, for example, offers multicultural, customizable avatars that can embody a brand with finesse, according to its values and audience.

4. Diversity and inclusion at the heart of our campaigns

AI mannequins offer a concrete response to this expectation, making it possible to create inclusive visuals, showcasing diverse bodies, multiple origins and gender or age diversity - all while respecting brands' aesthetic standards.

Avatars such as Imma (a Japanese virtual model) or Shudu (created for the Balmain fashion house) have demonstrated that it is possible to seduce the public while embodying atypical, modern and inspiring identities. At Artcare, diversity is integrated right from the design stage of AI mannequins, to reflect the richness of the real world in virtual universes.

5. Total control of brand image

Unlike human models or influencers, virtual avatars don't age, get sick or create controversy. They enable brands to retain absolute control over the image projected, the tone used and the values conveyed.

This is what Balmain understood when it launched its "Virtual Army": three digital avatars (Shudu, Margot and Zhi) created to embody the house's visual DNA. Everything is designed to guarantee perfect stylistic coherence.

6. Immersive consumer experiences

One of the greatest benefits of virtual mannequins is the ability to interact with them. Integrated into e-commerce platforms, they enable innovative functionalities such as Virtual Try It On: users can try on clothes on an avatar resembling their own morphology.

We can also imagine 3D-animated lookbooks, enriched product sheets that show garments in motion, or avatars that accompany the shopping experience on the site. These interactions increase conversion rates, while reducing product returns.

7. A "wow" effect and avant-garde positioning

AI mannequins create an immediate curiosity effect. Their often futuristic aesthetic captures attention, particularly on social networks. Lil Miquela, a pioneer of influencer avatars, accumulates over 2.6 million followers on Instagram and an engagement rate of over 3%, three times the industry average.

Campaigns like Balenciaga's with Noonoouri on TikTok generated 18 million views in 72 hours. On Zepeto, Gucci and Ralph Lauren reached over 2 billion interactions in 2022 thanks to their avatars.

For brands, integrating these virtual figures into their storytelling enables them to position themselves as innovative, creative and connected to Gen Z's digital habits.

AI virtual models are no longer a marginal trend: they are reshaping the codes of fashion photography and e-commerce. Cheaper, faster, more inclusive, more creative, they offer brands an unprecedented range of opportunities to differentiate, innovate and seduce a demanding, connected public.

Raising your brand image

Enhance your brand image with customized virtual mannequins At Artcare, we combine technology and visual excellence to create unique virtual mannequins tailored to your world. Offer your brand high-precision imaging, true to its DNA, without logistical constraints or compromises on aesthetics and innovation. Discover a new approach to brand content and push back the boundaries of creativity.

Planning a demonstration

What are the advantages of using virtual models in fashion photography?