Just Me

on November 3, 2011
in All Posts

Earlier in the week, I wrote a blurb about Kristen Stewart’s November 2011 Glamour cover, and I argued her left arm had been Photoshopped out.  A little controversy erupted in the comments section about whether the recent Endurance Magazine cover that featured Operation Beautiful – and me in on my bike – was Photoshopped to make me appear thinner (specifically, in the left thigh/leg area).  This image is also my blog ‘headshot’ on the right side of my blog.

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I wanted to clarify this issue because 1) Endurance Magazine is a great, inspiring publication that really encourages women and men of all shapes and sizes to be healthy; 2) the photographer who shot the cover was really sweet, genuine, and supportive of the nature of the Operation Beautiful movement; and 3) I never, ever doubted that it was actually 100% my body (granted, stretching out a leg and standing on tip-toe while wearing compressing bike shorts makes for a flattering pose). 

 

Furthermore, it is very, very important to me for you guys to know that if I was ever on or in a magazine that did Photoshop my body (something that would be totally out of my control, by the way), I would publically flame the magazine for doing so.  It would be a social media takedown of truly epic proportions.  Ha!

 

Anyway – to clear up any lingering issues about whether my body was Photoshopped on the cover of Endurance Magazine, here is the out-of-the-lens original photo and the edited (but not slimmed down) cover picture.  Of course, there is some editing in regarding to removing my in-laws’ backyard and improving the lighting.  But as you can clearly see, there is absolutely no difference in regards to my body shape.

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Thanks for reading HTP and promoting healthy discussion!

{ 123 comments }

 

  • Cat @Breakfast to Bed November 3, 2011, 12:49 pm

    you still have all of your limbs. You look great. If people think it’s bs, it’s on them. You are you, that’s truer than true.

    • Bernadette November 3, 2011, 1:08 pm

      DITTO!!!

      I couldn’t have said it better!
      xoxo

  • Amanda November 3, 2011, 12:51 pm

    Thanks for your honesty, Caitlin! You look beautiful in that photo. 🙂

    And you’re so right – the pose can make all the difference between a flattering and an unflattering shot.

  • Rosa - Fitness, Food, Fulfilled November 3, 2011, 12:52 pm

    I think you look great on the cover! Congratulations on it.
    Some people are going to be critical no matter what and it’s easy to get wrapped up in the fervor of the comments and post something negative because others are doing it. Herd mentality.
    Go away haters!

    • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 12:53 pm

      I REALLY don’t mind it when people post thoughtful comments that challenge me or my views. This was a fun post for me to investigate and write and I’m glad people brought it up! But yeah – people can always say things in a nicer way.

  • Gina @ Running to the Kitchen November 3, 2011, 12:53 pm

    The thought that that picture had been photoshopped never even crossed my mind. You look great in it!

  • Alison November 3, 2011, 12:54 pm

    I guess all the controversy is just a compliment to you then 🙂 You look great (and real – would never have crossed my mind that it was photoshopped).

    • Christie November 3, 2011, 3:09 pm

      So you’re saying that the controversy is a compliment to Caitlin because she looks so thin that people think it’s fake? I think that you probably didn’t mean it that way, but that kind of talk reinforces the need/desire for women to be super thin. I don’t mean to criticize you, because I don’t think you meant it that way, but I just wanted to point out how sometimes we think this way and reinforce these issues without even realizing it.

      • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 5:51 pm

        As I said to someone else, I felt like a bit of an ass writing this post because it was all sorts of awkward to be like ‘I was NOT photoshopped!’ I hope you both know that I was just trying to be open and honest. Thanks to both for reading and offering comments. I appreciate it.

  • Candice November 3, 2011, 12:55 pm

    I think it’s brave of you to put yourself out there and show the actual photo (not that you have anything worry about!). And I think it’s very mature of you to address concerns people have–it’s refreshing when a blog is so transparent.

  • Sweet and Savvy November 3, 2011, 12:56 pm

    You’re such an inspiration to be proud of YOUR body and accomplishments!:) keep up the great work!

  • Jamie @ StuckOutsideTheBox November 3, 2011, 12:56 pm

    I never would have thought it to be photoshopped. You look great and it’s an awesome picture! 🙂

  • Julia H. @ The Petite Spiel November 3, 2011, 1:04 pm

    Good for you with this post–I never thought for a second actually that you would have been photoshopped, and you clearly weren’t! Even if you were, though, it’s not that you would have ASKED them to do it.

  • Sean November 3, 2011, 1:06 pm

    You clipped into the wrong pedal. You’re going to crash! 🙂

    • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 1:09 pm

      Hahah DadHTP HATESSSSSSSSSSSS this photo because I am clearly not actually on my bike. LOL!

    • Alyssa @ Don't Look Down November 3, 2011, 1:15 pm

      I think this photo is funny because of that. It looks awkward to me because obviously Caitlin can’t ride her bike like that. (Well maybe she can, and if so, I would be impressed!) I think it’s weird they posed her this way too.

      • Sunny November 3, 2011, 1:19 pm

        I agree. I didn’t think it was photoshopped or anything but I dislike the pose, to me it just looks awkward.

      • Jen November 3, 2011, 11:38 pm

        Honestly, I just see it as a happy person getting READY to go on an awesome bike ride! 🙂

    • Mary November 3, 2011, 1:51 pm

      Funny but I never noticed the wrong pedal thing! It’s like someone trying to ride a horse sidesaddle but worse lol!

  • Becca @ Smile Run & Eat....A LOT November 3, 2011, 1:06 pm

    Geez, the comments on your other post were really harsh and unnecessary. People seem to be making a big deal out of nothing. You look terrific in the photo and you don’t deserve all this scrutinity. Glamour, etc photoshop ALL the time. It’s a huge problem for body image, esp for young girls, and it’s good you brought it up. Hope you’re not letting all these comments bug you……totally not worth it.

    • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 1:10 pm

      I listened but the harsher comments don’t bother me at all – but I did want to clarify for the reasons stated above.

      Thanks, girl.

      • Jen November 3, 2011, 11:43 pm

        Never doubted you, Caitlin! 🙂 Again, thank you for all of the amazing work that you are doing…you are such an inspiration!

        • Jen November 4, 2011, 12:16 am

          BTW, you have handled this with such grace and class…much respect!!!

  • kathleen @ the daily crumb November 3, 2011, 1:08 pm

    this honestly never even crossed my mind… but good for you for clearing it up. it’s just beautiful caitlin, people!

  • Krystina (Organically Me) November 3, 2011, 1:09 pm

    All I care about is that cute pink bike. 😛

    • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 1:09 pm

      Amen! Pink handlebar tape is where it is at.

  • Carly (Swim, Run, Om) November 3, 2011, 1:10 pm

    I don’t understand why Photoshop is such a bad thing. If someone wants to make my boobs bigger and waist smaller and stick me on a magazine cover, by all means DO IT.

    • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 1:12 pm

      Bawhahah you made me spit out my tea! Funny story: Nicole took a pic of me at a party and photoshopped me so my boobies were GINORMOUS. We had a good laugh. But then she accidentally posted the photoshopped pic – not the real one – onto Facebook and tagged me. This dude I knew like 10 years ago left a comment like “Damn, girl.” So embarrassing.

      • Dani November 3, 2011, 1:36 pm

        Hahaha, that’s hilarious!

      • Mary November 3, 2011, 7:15 pm

        hahaha this made me laugh. I need to learn how to do this to my pictures.

  • Kelly November 3, 2011, 1:12 pm

    I just think it’s weird that’s how they had you pose on the bike. It looks unnatural, and bothers my ocdness, haha.

    • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 1:12 pm

      DadHTP, too 🙂

  • Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat November 3, 2011, 1:13 pm

    I love this photo of you Caitlin! And congrats again on the cover opportunity. Not many people (well regular people anyway) can say they’ve been on the cover of a magazine!

  • Ashley O. @ The Vegetable Life November 3, 2011, 1:19 pm

    You look great!

  • Katherina November 3, 2011, 1:20 pm

    I don’t think it’d be a big deal if you were photoshopped! I also am not sure why photoshop is still considered controversial. I guess it’s good to keep talking about it to stay relevant so the few people who are unaware it exists can be educated, but it’s not quite news.

    • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 1:24 pm

      You would be SHOCKED how many young girls have NO IDEA that Photoshopping of celebrities occurs. This is one of the topics I discuss at Operation Beautiful presentations, and after every single high school or middle school presentation, dozens of girls (and boys) come up to me and say, “I had no idea it was like that.” I think most adults *know* it but unconsciously forget.

      • Amy November 3, 2011, 1:33 pm

        Even I *know* that photoshop happens – but when I am in line at the grocery store looking at magazines, I tend to forget.

        Anyway, you look great (and real).

  • Alyssa @ Don't Look Down November 3, 2011, 1:20 pm

    I think it’s also good to realize that photographers know how to pose and position their subjects and take good angles to make their subjects look their best. Obviously they would not put an unflattering photo on the cover of a magazine. Hence the quote, “granted, stretching out a leg and standing on tip-toe while wearing compressing bike shorts makes for a flattering pose”.
    The magazine cover looks great though!

  • Ashley @ Good Taste Healthy Me November 3, 2011, 1:22 pm

    It’s too bad that people can be so mean. Blog comments are supposed to be positive and uplifting. Disagreements are perfectly fine as long as they’re respectful!

    • Danielle B November 3, 2011, 1:35 pm

      Where does it say blog comments are supposed to be positive and uplifting? Respectful is one thing, but we don’t have to be puppies and rainbows all the time.

      • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 1:41 pm

        I don’t think it has to be rainbows and sunshine shooting out of everyone’s asses 🙂 But as a blogger, I do appreciate when people keep all comments thoughtful. I think it’s important to talk to people on the Internet as you would speak to them in real life.

  • Ally November 3, 2011, 1:22 pm

    Caitlin– do you worry that you subconsciously promote ‘thinness’– i know you are all about loving yourself and body, no matter what, but I find sometimes your comments, though very indirectly, promote the idea the thinner the better. For example, “granted, stretching out a leg and standing on tip-toe while wearing compressing bike shorts makes for a flattering pose”– more flattering because it makes you look MUCH thinner, when you are already very petite, and you yourself say that you are small-boned..

    • Kyla November 3, 2011, 1:27 pm

      I think in general anyone who wears compressing bike shorts and standing up on tip toes will make you look slimmer. It’s like wearing all of a monochromatic color and standing up taller because it slims you down. It’s just the rules of fashion! Besides, if you were on the cover of a magazine wouldn’t you want to look your best?

      • Danielle November 3, 2011, 9:25 pm

        Yeah and Ally’s point is that you (and Caitlin, in this post) are saying that “looking your best” and being in a “flattering angle” = skinny. You just said it yourself. “…will make you look slimmer…wouldn’t you want to look your best?”

    • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 1:30 pm

      Hmm interesting thought. Thanks for sharing this point! I certainly do not mean to promote a ‘thinner is better’ mentality and am very sorry if it ever comes across like that. I guess I only say these things to explain situations or photos. For example, I made that remark about the pose because I do think the pose is an important part of this discussion. My leg would not appear the same if it was straight on the ground, for example. Someone else above remarked how photographers position people in ‘flattering’ ways and I do think that’s relevant to the discussion. Even as I type this response, I can see what you mean about ‘flattering’ – everyone is essentially saying a flattering photo is a thinner photo. So you’ve given me a lot to think about! Our words are so powerful and it’s important to me to challenge and think about my verbiage. Thanks, friend!

      • Ally November 3, 2011, 2:09 pm

        Thanks for acknowledging my comment, Caitlin. I was worried as soon as I clicked ‘submit,’ that i might not have worded it politely enough (and might be the target of a list of attacking comments). I 100% completely agree that, in general, the world has a ‘thinner is better’ mentality– certainly it is portrayed excessively in the media, but I do believe that many people subconsciously portray this attitude without knowing it. I don’t think it’s necessarily because you feel that way (i.e. i’m not saying you specifically think being thinner is better), but I do think our minds our conditioned that way because of our external environment.

        What stood out to me regarding your use of the word ‘flattering’ is because you do acknowledge that you are petite and athletic, so I was wondering why you felt like looking even thinner would be more flattering. I know you didn’t mean to intentional say thinner is better, but sometimes its these subtle, indirect messages that can have a bigger impact than we might think– especially with those struggling with self esteem and body image issues.

        • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 2:14 pm

          Thanks for acknowledging my response, too! You really gave me a lot to think about in both responses. I don’t think anyone should (or could!) attack you for such a well-written and thoughtful remark.

          • Casey @ Pocket Full of Sunshine November 3, 2011, 9:31 pm

            I wish girls (Caitlin included) wouldn’t get backlash for wanting to be thin. Heck, I want be thin! I’ll say it. If I’m in a healthy weight range by doc standards—then what is wrong with it? I NEVER want to dip into the skinny territory where it’s dangerous for my body. But I like being a little thinner—I think I look better that way. Why is a girl applauded if she declares she wants to be “healthy and round” or something like that, but it’s an awful thing to want to be thin? We all want to look our best, and there is nothing wrong with that! Caitlin isn’t promoting anorexia if she’s saying she likes for her thigh to look lean! I mean, something has to be “flattering”—the term exists for a reason—so what’s wrong with wanting our bodies to be flattered?

    • HTPDad November 3, 2011, 1:31 pm

      I’ll step up here – every time in my life I’ve been in fit or very fit condition, people have asked if I feel okay because I look so thin – at 6’4″ and 205 pounds! Caitlin is a fit, active person about her mother’s size – and as far as I know, her sole food fetish problem is vegetarianism (hahaha).

      Which is why I’m coming for Christmas instead of Thanksgiving.

      • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 1:32 pm

        What – you don’t want tofurky?!

        • HTPDad November 3, 2011, 11:30 pm

          no fauxturkey this year.

    • Jen November 3, 2011, 2:27 pm

      I was going to say the same thing. I totally understand what you are saying here Caitlin. But it could and does come off as “Look at me, that’s really me”, etc.

      I know that’s not “right”, but let’s be honest, this is what girls and women think. Then they think that you look so thin and perfect in real life and it makes others feel like less.

      • Elle November 3, 2011, 5:01 pm

        I want to say that wearing compression bike spandex shorts and standing on tip-toes would not be flattering for the vast majority of our country.

        I do tend to think people in this community get a little carried away with perceptions, even when trying to be politically correct and body-sensitive. all the tip-toeing actually makes a lot of people feel worse, not better about themselves. some bloggers say how HUGE they are, and try and claim pride in being “thick.” then they stand next to others in a group shot and appear smaller than everyone else! i would never want to be in pictures with those girls, even though i bet they are awesome. words are powerful. being self-deprecating is very negative and is far too tolerated around these active / healthy living sites, imho.

        but, sigh, i still read and love websites like caitlin’s! in general, they do lots of people lots of good! but some days i know it’s best not to read because i am not strong enough to combat the unwritten text that is being written.

      • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 5:49 pm

        Jen – For what it’s worth, I definitely felt like this was a ‘damned if I do, damned if I don’t’ kind of post. Either way I kind of sound like an asshole. I hope you know I DON’T intend it in any way! Sometimes it’s very hard to be honest and open in such a public space, but I’m so glad people like you are along for the journey.

        • Jen November 3, 2011, 10:20 pm

          No of course!! That’s exactly what I mean. I think there’s no way to “win” here. You wrote the best that you could. Having to explain yourself or disclaim yourself – followed by another disclaimer about your disclaimer – is just ridiculous. Unfortunately, it’s the way our society is.

          Just like the celebrity that is slammed for being too thin, then gains a little weight to look healthy, then the magazines circulate she’s pregnant, to which she responds “I’m just eating too much” (when, uh, she looks healthy) – and the vicious cycle continues. No one can win.

          I. Hate. Society.

  • janetha November 3, 2011, 1:25 pm

    I agree with everyone else–you look great and I have met you in person and look just like the cover, no photoshop needed! But I, too, think that pose is funky. If anything were speculated to be photoshopped I would think that it would be the pose/foot on that pedal.. NOT how thin your leg is. You have rockin legs, lady.

  • Amber K November 3, 2011, 1:27 pm

    Your comment section rocks because different things are always coming up. But it also kinda stinks because people are always so harsh in the way they say things.

    You look great!

  • Nicole November 3, 2011, 1:30 pm

    Assuming you were photoshopped can be taken as a back-handed compliment. I get back-handed compliments all the time when people ask me if I wear color contacts. No, my eyes really are this blue. I credit my blue- eyed parents. I know the intent is good, but it comes off wrong.

    Btw–I can testify to the IRL skinniness of your thighs. bitch 😉

    • HTPDad November 3, 2011, 1:33 pm

      She got ’em from me. Look at those calfs.

    • Lauren November 3, 2011, 2:22 pm

      Wow, the last line of your comment Nicole was unneccessary and reinforced the WHOLE idea that we are trying to fight as women.

      • Jenn November 3, 2011, 4:56 pm

        I agree. I know it’s meant to be a friendly, joking comment but I’m sure I’m not the only one rolling my eyes over here.

        • Kate November 3, 2011, 6:26 pm

          Ditto.

      • April @ Grits and Granola Bars November 3, 2011, 6:03 pm

        Can you explain what you feel is wrong with the last line, please?

        • Kate November 3, 2011, 7:01 pm

          What’s wrong with the last line of the comment? Oh, you know, that it continues to perpetuate the idea that we should be envious of other women because they have thinner thighs than we do. You know, that whole thing that Operation Beautiful is fighting?

          Oh the irony…(Irony can also be found in the comment below about how no one would want to buy a magazine with a “gross slob” on the cover because we only buy magazines featuring people we aspire to be like. OBVIOUSLY we couldn’t possibly aspire to be like someone who is FAT. FAT GROSS SLOBS don’t have any other redeeming qualities, right?)

          • April @ Grits and Granola Bars November 3, 2011, 8:37 pm

            I think it’s kind of reaching to take that from Nicole’s last line. I had a completely different perception of what she meant. I read it as, “I’ve seen you in real life so I can vouch that you really look like that and it’s not photoshopping.”

          • Kris November 3, 2011, 8:46 pm

            Oh my word, it was a joke. Get off your high horse.

          • April @ Grits and Granola Bars November 3, 2011, 8:53 pm

            By the way, I just checked out the comment you referred to and it didn’t say a thing about fat or weight at all. Do you associate the words ‘gross’ and ‘slob’ with being a person being overweight/obese or something?

          • Kate November 3, 2011, 10:15 pm

            No, I don’t equate the terms “gross” and “slob” with fat–but this conversation has obviously been about body size and whether the picture was photoshopped to make her look leaner. Contextually, it was clearly, clearly implied in that comment.

            As for my “high horse”–look, I agree that these things can be over-analyzed. But the point is, Caitlin makes a living spreading the Operation Beautiful message. So, yes it is ironic when people defend her using messaging that she herself criticizes for a living. And it doesn’t matter if it was a joke. I think the OB message is that subtle messaging, like jokes, can harm too.

          • Nicole November 4, 2011, 12:04 am

            Kate–

            I think Miranda sums it up perfectly: “Just because you are envious of someone else doesn’t mean you don’t appreciate what you have or that you don’t think you are beautiful.” Furthermore, just because my comment implies that I value thin thighs, does not cancel out other opinions of beauty; afterall, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I reread the mission of OB (http://operationbeautiful.com/about-2/) and it seems the point is to eliminate negative self-talk, not necessarily to effect societies definition of beauty. I won’t even attempt to assume what it is that you believe is beautiful, but know that I think we are all responsible for coming to terms with our own definition of beauty.

    • Miranda November 3, 2011, 8:56 pm

      I don’t see anything wrong with the last line of Nicole’s comment. Maybe if she didn’t know Caitlin personally, but she seems to be very good friends with her.

      I feel like there is such a thing as thinking something to death. Not every little thing (or comment) needs to be taken so gosh darn seriously. Just because you are envious of someone else doesn’t mean you don’t appreciate what you have or that you don’t think you are beautiful.

      And maybe this is just the way I interpret the phrase “gross slob”, but I feel like that term has nothing to do with what you actually weight. To me a slob is someone who doesn’t take care of themselves or take pride in their appearance. I could look at a girl who weighs 120lbs and think she looks like a slob because her hair isn’t done and maybe she has on an old shirt and sweat pants, but the girl standing next to her can weigh 200lbs but be dressed nicely and have taken the time to style her hair or put on make up. In my opinion that is the whole point of Operation Beautiful. It’s not what you weigh, but it’s about taking care of yourself and actively trying to make healthy choices regardless of what you weigh. That makes you beautiful.

      Oh the irony…(Irony can also be found in the comment below about how no one would want to buy a magazine with a “gross slob” on the cover because we only buy magazines featuring people we aspire to be like. OBVIOUSLY we couldn’t possibly aspire to be like someone who is FAT. FAT GROSS SLOBS don’t have any other redeeming qualities, right?)

      • Miranda November 3, 2011, 8:58 pm

        That last paragraph wasn’t supposed to be included in my comment…oops!

  • Andrea November 3, 2011, 1:32 pm

    I truly don’t notice anything strange or awkward about the bike photo. I think it looks nice, and that you look like you do in any other photo on your blog.

  • Coree November 3, 2011, 1:37 pm

    I know everyone is hating on the pose, but I think if you were sitting on your bike “correctly” it would be a major crotch shot situation. And that would be awkward.

  • Ann November 3, 2011, 1:42 pm

    I know you would never knowingly let a photoshopped image of yourself be published. And, you do look fantastic! I fully intend to go around wearing compression bike shorts and standing on my tip toes as much as possible in hopes that my legs look that good!

  • Dani November 3, 2011, 1:43 pm

    Having met you in person, I agree that this is what you look like – no photoshop needed at all! You’re a smaller, but very fit, girl.

    Interesting post though.. this got me thinking about how I’d feel if I were to be on a magazine cover and photoshopped. I’d be pretty mad that I was asked by a company, but then my photos deemed not good enough.

  • Errign November 3, 2011, 1:53 pm

    My only question is… why are you riding sidesaddle? 🙂

  • katie @ KatieDid November 3, 2011, 1:55 pm

    I never would have noticed or thought anything of it had you not brought it up. Well you look great in the photo and its nice to know they didn’t tamper with your gorgeous body!

  • April November 3, 2011, 1:55 pm

    What do people expect, that you’d try to look like you rolled out of bed to do a magazine cover? Of COURSE you’d bring your A+++ game to look your best there! And of course, they posed you in a certain way so you’d look extra lean.

    I certainly wouldn’t buy a magazine with a gross slob on the cover. We buy magazines with people on the front that we look up to/aspire to be like.

    • lauren November 3, 2011, 2:18 pm

      And we look up to Caitlin because she’s a strong woman with an awesome message 🙂

    • Jamie@cupcakedynamite November 3, 2011, 7:10 pm

      Cause god forbid anyone look up to anyone unattractive or sloppy in appearance!

      • crystal November 3, 2011, 8:20 pm

        Yup. b/c outward appearance is what we should all look for!

        Comments like that piss me off. I tend to look harried and sloppy sometimes in public b/c I have 2 kids, didn’t sleep, washed the kids clothes, but forgot to do mine so all I have clean are sweats and I would hate to think someone is judging me/my personality based on that.

        And Caitlin, I think you handled this awesomely!

        • Kris November 3, 2011, 8:50 pm

          There’s a big difference between running around town looking sloppy and being shot for magazine cover looking sloppy.

          • April November 6, 2011, 1:13 pm

            Kris, thank you for understanding that that is what I meant. Just like you wouldn’t show up for say, bridal portraits with greasy hair, you wouldn’t be photographed for a national magazine looking scraggly either.

  • Emily November 3, 2011, 2:00 pm

    I read some of the comments on the last post. People can be harsh! In my opinion, challenging views are healthy, but some of those comments were down right negative. So glad you responded in this way. You look great!!

  • kristen @ livinlifeinlouie November 3, 2011, 2:12 pm

    wow. I never would have thought to backlash at you about your picture in a magazine. Never even came to mind, but im glad that they didn’t change anything! It is hard to look at magazines that change beautiful women into something that they are not, and compare yourself to them.

  • lauren November 3, 2011, 2:15 pm

    When I saw this cover, the first things that stuck out to me, aside from WOW, Cool, Caitlin’s on the cover! – was the white background and that your shirt and Operation Beautiful match. I’m a dork, layout and design interest me 🙂
    Photography is really hard, but I think “needing” or not needing Photoshop often has something to do with the photographer and his ability to put you at ease and capture you at your best.

  • Halley (Blunder Construction) November 3, 2011, 2:26 pm

    I would expect nothing short of a social media upheaval if your likeness was misrepresented! I love when you tap into controversial topics on your blog because the conversations are always multi-faceted and open-minded (and sometimes it’s just about sleeping nekkid)HA! looking forward to more on this sort of topic.

  • Katie @ Peace Love and Oats November 3, 2011, 2:41 pm

    I feel like it’s too bad that you even had to clarify! If you’re making comments about photo-shopping, then clearly you wouldn’t have a photo-shopped picture of yourself on your blog!

  • Callie @ Callieflower Kitchen November 3, 2011, 2:54 pm

    I don’t really have an opinion on photoshopping, but I always thought the pose in that picture looked a little awkward. Maybe it’s just because my bike cleats are super slippery and trying to balance on one tiptoe with one foot on the wrong pedal would be disastrous for me haha 😛

  • Nena November 3, 2011, 3:03 pm

    You go girl! 🙂

    People can be so mean. 🙁

  • Jen November 3, 2011, 3:05 pm

    The photo didn’t look doctored at all to me. And I don’t know how to ride a bike, so the pedal thing didn’t even register for me haha. Anyway, film always looks different from real life; it’s a reproduction, an image caught from a particular angle in a particular light.

    “I don’t rely on mirrors, so I always take Polaroids.” – Cher Horowitz

  • Tina @ Faith Fitness Fun November 3, 2011, 3:28 pm

    I’ve seen you in person. You’re fit and I would never have questioned that as your body. Regardless, I hate others questioned it, but applaud you for clearing the air.

    • Soraya November 3, 2011, 4:07 pm

      “Regardless, I hate others questioned it, but applaud you for clearing the air.”

      +1

  • Averie @ Love Veggies and Yoga November 3, 2011, 3:48 pm

    Very cool side by side pics and thanks for sharing them and for your thoughts on the whole matter!

  • Sana November 3, 2011, 3:55 pm

    Haha, I would have asked to be photo shopped ON my bike. I fall off way too many times.

  • Annette @ EnjoyYourHealthyLife November 3, 2011, 4:07 pm

    Uhhh it didn’t look doctored to me–but that is a cool side-by-side pic of the ‘real’ thing and then what is on the magazine. A lot goes into photo shoots!

  • Moni'sMeals November 3, 2011, 4:14 pm

    Great discussion going on over here!

    You look great (duh) and people (woman) are always obsessed with other peoples (woman’s) bodies…WHY!

  • Lee November 3, 2011, 4:18 pm

    I never thought that picture looked photoshoped. Just a little awkward like you’re about to fall off the bike!

  • Nicole November 3, 2011, 4:23 pm

    wowww, people can be so mean. you have handled this whole situation with great maturity caitlin! I am so proud of you and you are STILL someone I really really really look up to. your successes have been amazing, and anyone who wants to try and bring you down should really just click the little “X” in their internet window and get off your blog page! I really think it is so unnecessary for people to deliberately be harsh, hurtful, and so unbelievably judgmental.

  • Lisa (bakebikeblog) November 3, 2011, 4:36 pm

    I never thought it looked photoshopped at all!!!!

  • lorraine November 3, 2011, 4:44 pm

    Caitlin, thanks for addressing this so directly. I am really sorry for making an incorrect assumption about the photo in the first place. You’ve been really graceful and mature.

    • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 5:48 pm

      Thanks sweetie. I appreciate this. I’m glad I could clarify it!

  • Jenn November 3, 2011, 5:00 pm

    I think you look great Caitlin and congrats for being on a magazine cover! I must have missed any posts about it because I totally didn’t realize your sidebar pic was for that haha.

  • Leslie November 3, 2011, 5:23 pm

    A photographer took care to use lighting and posing to show the subject(Caitlin) in the best way possible to get a photo that will promote the message of the magazine. I’m sure that multiple shots were taken and the one that was chosen was the one that fit the cover best and allowed for copy to be added along the sides. They needed a shot that was pretty straight down the middle of the cover which would explain the strange side saddle posing. Caitlin has spoken to the questions of photoshopping. I personally think she has been professional in her approach to the issue. There are some that believe that there was a sinister plot to discieve being employed by Caitlin or the magazine or both.Some of us just see a picture of a girl on a bike.

    • Sarah November 3, 2011, 8:59 pm

      “some of us just see a picture off a girl on a bike.”
      Yes. Well said!

      And well handled Caitlin. I have that magazine and the thought never crossed my mind. Strange the things people get hung up on. Keep on keepin on girlfriend!

  • Nathalie November 3, 2011, 5:23 pm

    I can’t believe people were ‘accusing’ you of photoshopping and leaving quite mean comments on the ‘Kristen’s missing an arm’ post??!! How ridiculous!
    I meant to say this when you first changed the photo and forgot, but now seems a good time: I think the bike photo of you is really great! You look fab and so athletic and when I first saw it I though “whoa…niiice legs!!!” There is nothing weird or awkward about the pic! xxx

  • Corrie Anne November 3, 2011, 5:38 pm

    Haha. That’s crazy. Of course it’s just beautiful you! 🙂

  • Vanessa (@IsleStyleLiving) November 3, 2011, 7:25 pm

    I didn’t scroll through all the comments… so sorry if this is a repeat!

    I never thought that your picture was photoshopped… I don’t pay attention enough to magazine covers and internet photos to recognize the difference.

    I think it’s great that you addressed the issue and are so transparent! Thank you for being so honest with your readers.

  • Briana November 3, 2011, 7:29 pm

    Caitlin, you put yourself out there in the blog world in a wonderful and beautiful way! You aren’t hiding anything, you post UN-photoshopped pictures of yourself on here everyday, so why would you confuse your readers and confuse your message of being you and being beautiful with a photoshopped picture? It doesn’t add up. But kudos for you for being kind and mature in your corrections. You set a nice example!

  • Christina November 3, 2011, 9:11 pm

    That’s pretty funny! I just want to say I really don’t like it when blogs switch to the “click to read more” format for old posts. I like to read a day or so of your posts at once and I’ll happily click on “next page” but I seldom bother on the “click to read more”. I’m saying this because I really like your blog and I want to keep reading all the posts! Honestly I stopped reading eat live run because you have to click on something extra for every post. Sorry I wrote a blog post myself… just wanted to make myself heard, and I love your honesty and humor!

    • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 9:13 pm

      Do you mean how on the homepage there are 2 not full posts on the bottom? This is just part of the new design – I thought it was easier for readers compared to the old design, which had two full posts on the front page and no clickable links to the third and fourth on the bottom. You just had to hit “next page” and I think you’d only get one post then.

      • Caitlin November 3, 2011, 9:13 pm

        Also – I hate ‘read more’ on all posts too!!!!

      • Nicole Mullins November 4, 2011, 4:20 pm

        I use Headway on my site too and it’s pretty easy to change the number of posts that are full size and the number that show “continue reading”. I think since you usually post 3 times a day, you could have 3 full posts visible and then a few below that are click-able before going to the next page.

  • kirsten November 3, 2011, 9:54 pm

    great post! 🙂

  • anon November 3, 2011, 9:55 pm

    I think there are several issues that are clouding this topic. First, regarding your comment about the Kristen Stewart cover. Her arm may have just been removed because of posing, just as your body may have been altered by posing. Why discuss this as a possibility for you but not in her case? Also, if her arm was removed with photo shopping, how does this affect body image or portray an unrealistic body ideal? I think ALL pictures on magazine covers are photo shopped and I would actually be shocked if your image on the cover was indeed a raw, unaltered photo. However, it seems that the question at hand is whether the photo shopping was done to alter body size and your photos do not appear to have had this alteration. Photo shopping is a tool all photographers use to improve images. The issue of whether the ‘improvement’ is an unrealistic body ideal is the real issue, not photo shopping, per se. I really think the imprecision in this discussion has created more confusion than clarification.

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) November 3, 2011, 10:46 pm

    I don’t know how anyone could have thought the photo was photo shopped – you can tell it is not. It looks great, and you are really beautiful Caitlin 🙂

  • Marissa C November 4, 2011, 12:07 am

    Yup…I saw a girl on a bike, too!

    Sometimes I think we overanalyze things a little too much as women…

  • Khushboo November 4, 2011, 12:53 am

    Wow the thought never even crossed my mind, before nor now!

  • Libby November 4, 2011, 1:49 am

    My Journalism class on media and society spent our whole class talking about magazines and the editing of photos in magazines and on the covers. Thank you for your two posts that dealt with that issue.

  • Pam November 4, 2011, 2:39 am

    I haven’t read *all* the comments (rookie mistake, I’m sure), but my first thought in regards to everyone commenting on the “flattering pose” is this: stretching your leg is going to accentuate muscle tone. While I don’t think “thin is better,” I feel like people are extrapolating from that comment. Thin is not better, but healthy and *fit* are better. I think we can all agree that, even if a person isn’t naturally thin, someone who exercises and eats right is going to be toned, regardless of their weight, and pointing your toe and flexing your calf is going to accentuate that tone!

  • Heather November 4, 2011, 7:35 am

    I really appreciate your honesty, Caitlin. You’re so real and that’s why we love you!

  • Kelly November 4, 2011, 7:53 am

    I will admit that while I never publically commented I did think that your body had bene photoshopped. I guess we are all so used to seeing and knowing photoshopped work that we have become almost jaded to it. I expect it. But I honestly never thought about it again. I didn’t connect to the 2 incidents to the Glamour Kristen Stewart piece you wrote either. I just assumed you had been photoshopped just like every other peson who is on or in a magazine. But thanks for clearing this up although I didn’t feel it was necessary to explain yourself. If you had been photoshopped you would have had zero control over that situation.

  • Hayley @ Oat Couture November 4, 2011, 4:37 pm

    You look great! And I think you have handled this situation with grace and admirable honesty, so hats off to you!! 🙂 Although in my opinion you shouldn’t have had to explain yourself in the first place!! Some people really need to give it a rest and find something else to do with their time!

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