People stop for people. A life-size cutout of a brand ambassador, mascot, character or giant product creates an instant focal point — and a photo opportunity guests can't resist. Standees are used everywhere from cinema lobbies to pharmacies, mall kiosks and corporate events.
What counts as “life-size”?
Typically a cutout between about 160 and 200 cm tall, matching real human height. Product standees may be scaled up — a two-metre perfume bottle or phone gets attention precisely because it is oversized.
Popular types of standees
- Ambassador or staff cutouts — a welcoming figure at an entrance or booth.
- Mascots and characters — for kids' events, schools and family brands.
- Face-in-hole standees — guests put their own face into the design for photos.
- Oversized product standees — launches and retail promotions.
- Directional standees — a figure pointing the way to a booth or event.
- Heritage figures and themes — for National Day and cultural celebrations.
Materials
| Material | Weight | Durability | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foam board | Light | Good indoors | Events and short campaigns |
| PVC board (Forex) | Heavier | High | Long campaigns, busy areas, reuse |
| Corrugated/cardboard | Light | Lower | Short promotions, disposable displays |
Stability is critical
A tall, thin shape can tip over easily. Good standees use:
- A wide base or weighted base stand.
- A rear strut positioned at the centre of gravity.
- Placement away from doorways and air-conditioning vents that create drafts.
In high-traffic malls or where children are present, always choose a weighted base.
Image quality
A life-size print magnifies everything. For people and products:
- Use professional, high-resolution photography shot against a clean background.
- Ask the photographer for the original file, not a social media export.
- Check resolution at full print size.
Rights and permissions
Only use images you have the right to use. If the cutout shows a real person — an employee, ambassador or influencer — get their written permission for the use. Well-known characters and celebrities are protected, so use your own brand mascot or original characters instead.
Placement ideas
- At store entrances to greet customers.
- Beside an exhibition booth to draw eyes from the aisle.
- Next to a backdrop as part of a photo zone.
- In hotel and cinema lobbies for launches and premieres.
- At school events, sports days and graduations.
Designing a face-in-hole standee
- Set the hole at an adult face height (or a child height for kids' events).
- Make the opening generous enough for different face sizes.
- Add a small step or mark on the floor for the right standing position.
- Put the logo or hashtag at the top where it stays in frame.
Frequently asked questions
How tall should a life-size cutout be?
Generally 160–200 cm for human figures.
Will it stand on its own?
Yes, with the right base or strut. Weighted bases are recommended for busy areas.
Where can I see options?
Browse our cutouts and selfie frames and read our foam board cutouts guide.