I'm always fascinated by "photoshop disasters" - those hilarious-yet-sad horrendously bad photoshop photo manipulations that inexplicably make it to print. Models missing an arm, a hand appearing out of thin air, obvious use of the liquify tool all make me feel more confident about being able to find a job. I mean, if these morons are gainfully employed, then there is hope for me, right?!

But I am also fascinated by photoshop disasters that go beyond the humorous mishap. Like this one:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1343026/Bollywood-star-Aishwarya-Rai-Bachchan-left-furious-alleged-skin-whitening-Elle-magazine-cover.html

Basically, the Indian actress is rightfully upset that her skin has been lightened on the cover of Elle magazine. It is amazing to me that the editors of Elle find it acceptable to alter reality in this way, and expect their consumers to buy into it like spoon-fed sheep. I personally had never heard of this actress before, but she obviously has many fans who did recognize her and instantly noticed what had been done. It would be like someone taking a picture of Beyonce and lightening her complexion.....oh wait...that has been done.

This goes beyond the casual over-zealous photo edit. The greater implication of this is who decides what is acceptable? Who decides what is beautiful? Someone had to approve the final edit and decide that this actress looked better on their cover as a lighter version. What kind of message is this sending to the public? Beauty is not generic. Beauty is not only found in a size negative three pasty white girl. Beauty is diverse.

These lessons can be applied in design as well. Don't just design for the generic. Don't allow misconceptions of what is beautiful or accepted to drive your design. Stay true to yourself and your convictions and the beauty will shine through.