September 2025
2 minutes

How can I create fashion lookbooks without hiring models?

Short answer: Use Nightjar's Fashion Try-On feature. Upload your flat garment photos and the AI generates professional model photography with diverse, realistic models. Create complete lookbooks in under an hour.

Do it in Nightjar (step‑by‑step)

  1. Open Studio → choose Fashion Try-On.
  2. Upload your garment photo (flat lay or on hanger works fine).
  3. In Special requests, specify model details:
    • "25-year-old Asian model with long wavy hair"
    • "Mid-30s professional Black woman, confident pose"
    • "Plus-size Latina model, natural makeup, lifestyle setting"
  4. Select your style:
    • Editorial/Magazine: Vogue-style for high-fashion lookbooks
    • E-commerce Listing: Clean catalog shots
    • Lifestyle: Real-world settings and poses
    • Luxury/Premium: Sophisticated, minimalist aesthetics
  5. Generate multiple variations per garment.
  6. Refine: "more confident pose," "darker hair," "urban background."

Style combinations for different brands

  • Luxury fashion: Editorial/Magazine or Luxury/Premium for sophisticated positioning
  • Contemporary brands: E-commerce Listing for clean, professional catalog shots
  • Streetwear: Social Media style with urban, edgy vibes
  • Activewear: Lifestyle showing movement and real-world wear

Creating cohesive lookbooks

Consistent model: Use identical model specifications across multiple garments for brand cohesion.

Seasonal storytelling: "Spring outdoor setting with bright lighting" or "Cozy fall indoor environment."

Size inclusivity: Generate the same outfit on different body types to represent your customer base.

Collection narrative: Show pieces together that tell a story about your brand and lifestyle.

Advanced techniques

Diverse representation: Create authentic ethnic diversity with specific requests for different backgrounds.

Age range variety: "Early 20s," "mid-30s," or "mature 40s model" for broader appeal.

Mood progression: Start with energetic shots, transition to intimate or sophisticated imagery.

Environmental storytelling: "Urban rooftop," "minimalist studio," or "natural outdoor setting."

Cost comparison

Traditional lookbook shoot: $1,800-$5,900 per session (model, photographer, styling, location)

Nightjar Fashion Try-On: $35/month for unlimited generations and refinements

Troubleshooting

  • Model doesn't fit brand: "More sophisticated styling" or "younger, edgier aesthetic"
  • Garment fit issues: "Adjust fabric draping" or "natural garment movement"
  • Inconsistent quality: "Maintain professional photography standards across all shots"

Related guides

Professional lookbooks—without the model casting or expensive shoots.

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