Complex Magazine released its April/May 2009 issue with a double cover featuring hip hop superstar Kanye West as a blue-eyed, silver cyborg along with socialite Kim Kardashian.
Kanye West, however, was not the only one who got a heavy make-over; Kim Kardashian’s photos received a mega dose of airbrushing, as illustrated by the images above. But unfortunately for the Photoshop crew at Complex (and Kim Kardashian), they put the untouched photo in their exclusive web gallery.
In looking at the pre-photoshop image on the the left, you’ll see that that celebutante looks heavier, has a bigger waist and a spotty, blotchy skin tone and noticeably larger thighs. Complex eventually replaced it with the retouched one, giving Kim a smaller body with a tiny waist and absolutely flawless skin to boot.
Complex Magazine removed the photo in question, but the “damage” has already been done.
What's Driving This Trend
- Digital Retouching
- There is a growing trend of using Photoshop and other digital retouching techniques to alter images, but the demand for authenticity and transparency is disrupting this industry.
- Body Positivity
- The trend towards body positivity and inclusivity is challenging the use of excessive digital retouching in the fashion and beauty industry, creating opportunities for brands that promote natural beauty.
- Transparency in Media
- Consumers are increasingly demanding transparency in media, pushing magazines and other publications to disclose their use of digital retouching and showcasing unedited images.
Who This Affects Most
- Fashion and Beauty
- The fashion and beauty industry is being disrupted by the growing body positivity movement and the demand for more authentic and inclusive representation.
- Media and Publishing
- The media and publishing industry is being forced to adapt to the demand for transparency, as consumers expect honesty and integrity in the portrayal of images.
- Technology and Software
- As the use of digital retouching remains prevalent, the technology and software industry has opportunities to develop tools and solutions that promote ethical and responsible image alteration.
