It’s Called a LINK–Use It Correctly or Don’t Use It at All
As most of you know, I’ve only been blogging for about 14 months. During this time, I have been amazed at the kindness that is shown to me on a daily basis.
Through blogging, I have been fortunate enough to make some very good friends. Friends that I truly love, miss, and talk to on a daily basis. My email inbox, although not as full as most bloggers, usually includes a few sweet emails from readers, which never cease to bring tears to my eyes. I am a sentimental person, and these things I cherish.
Unfortunately, I had a bad blogging experience this week that I would like to share. Not because I am a mean person, or a bitter person, or a vengeful person, but because I decided NOT to react in the way I would like to, and this is a way for me to get it out, make peace, and move on.
The other day, while checking my Cookbook Queen Facebook page, I noticed that I had been tagged by another page, linking to my Shamrock Mint Oreos. I am always flattered and very grateful when anyone takes the time to link to me, so I headed over to their page to tell them so.
When I looked at their page, I was surprised to see that they had over 55,000 Facebook “likers”. I will be honest and admit that I was pretty excited that a site that popular was linking to my post, until I clicked the link they had posted.
On their blog, (under MY picture) was a short blurb they had written (not one word of which mentioned me or my blog) and under that was my entire recipe. Word for word, EXACTLY the same. Under the recipe, in much, much smaller font than that used for the post, was the following line: recipe and photo adaptation: Confessions of a Cookbook Queen, with a link to my site embedded.
The first thing that bothered me was that they posted my recipe at all. I have been fortunate enough to be featured on sites like Be Different, Act Normal, Craft Gossip, and Cupcakes Take the Cake many times, and they have always used my photo, but required their readers to click to MY site to get the recipe.
The second thing that bothered me was the fact that the tiny line crediting me was WAY at the bottom of the post. So unless a person was to read the ENTIRE recipe, and squint at the very small words underneath, they would not even realize that it was mine. Not to mention that they said the recipe and the photo were ADAPTED.
Adapted which means altered, not copy and pasted.
I am going to be honest and say something that people sometimes look down upon. I blog because I enjoy it, but also to make money. Admittedly, I get much more enjoyment, from my blog than monetary compensation, and that is fine by me. But having a food blog costs money. Money for materials, money for photograpy equipment and props, and money for blog design, should you choose to pay someone to do that.
I am not looking to get rich or famous off my blog by any means. All I hope to do is eventually make enough to cover my blog expenses and maybe have enough left over to put away for Christmas. If I can do that, I will be happy. I didn’t go to college, and spent most of my time as a young adult working in a restaurant. I have no huge financial expectations and am just proud that after almost 7 years of staying home, I am able to contribute financially, even if it’s just a very small amount to put towards Christmas presents.
With that being said, clicks are money for me. That is why I have an ad on my page. I get paid for every page a person views, and when a site posts my picture, my recipe, and makes it nearly impossible to figure out where it all came from, it pretty much leaves no reason for them to click over to my site.
Basically, I felt like this big site was taking advantage of me.
After thinking it over for awhile, I decided to send them an email. I made sure that the email was bordering on too kind, so that there was no way for them to interperet me as being aggressive in any way. I shared with them that I was concerned with the size and placing of the link, and that they were using my EXACT recipe. I explained that I am a much smaller and relatively new site, and I wasn’t trying to be annoying, just wanted to make sure that it was done appropriately. I also nicely asked if they would either change the wording of the recipe instructions to their own, or remove the recipe and give a link to my site instead.
They agreed to move the “adapted from” credit to directly under the photo, but refused to change or remove the recipe. They said that since they “clearly” gave me credit it was unnecessary. They also reminded me that they had over 55,000 Facebook fans who were able to see my work, thanks to them and that hopefully this was all resolved so they could “work with me again” in the future.
I didn’t reply, wanting to sleep on it and see how I felt in the morning. It was obvious that they felt they were doing me a favor and I wasn’t sure that I wanted to waste a ton of negative energy arguing my point.
In the morning however, there were three more emails from them. Two were responses to comments they had received from readers pointing out that they had used my EXACT recipe but hadn’t mentioned me in the post. The third was an email explaining that they had never encountered such problems with a feature they had done, and they would not be using my work again.
Ummm…I didn’t ask them to use it in the first place?
They have taken the Facebook post off (maybe they don’t want to call attention to my readers) but my photo is still up on the front page of their blog.
The recipe is still there too.
At this point, I am at a loss. I know I would be well within my rights to email them with bunch of legal talk and threats of telling everyone who they are, but that is just not me. I am not afraid of confrontation, I just don’t enjoy negativity. I prefer to spend my energy on more positive things.
Needless to say, I am upset that I was even put in this position. I didn’t ask for their “help”. And for those of you who are curious, I gained about 8 Facebook “likers” from their mention and about 11 people clicked over to view my site from theirs.
WOW. Not.
I guess what I am trying to explain is this:
My blog is my job and I take my job seriously. If I had a lemonade stand and someone took my lemonade to their own stand across the street and sold it, it would be pretty much the same thing. They are making money off of my work and my expense and it’s wrong.
What makes it worse is that they think I should stand there and watch them sell my lemonade and be happy.
Well guess what? I’m not happy and they are pretty much big jerks.
There. I feel better now.
At this point, I have not responded to their last email and I am not sure if I should. I would love you to comment if you have advice or have experienced a situation like this before.
I’d also like to point out that as always, you guys are a bright spot in my day. Thank you for being there, for reading, and for being so dang nice. I love you for it.
Have a happy Friday!!
Thanks for visiting my blog! I realize you could be doing more important things with your time. Like watching the news or washing socks. I hope you stay awhile. Much more fun than socks, I promise. 
That's just not fair! :( I'm sorry that you are having to deal with that. I'll gladly email them on your behalf if you'd like, but I doubt I'd be as diplomatic about it! Do you have a copywrite on your photos? If you do, you tell them to take it down and they have to, or they are stealing from you for sure!!
I know exactly who you are talking about – shame on them!!! I will not be visiting that blog ever again. Your blog is MUCH better anyway =)
I have no wisdom or advice but just want to say I'm sorry you've had to spend your time dealing with this. It must be incredibly frustrating and I think you're within your rights to be angry about how they've dealt with you. I'm a newcomer to your blog and love it. Mainly for the personal touch which big sites that rob material can never recreate. Keep going. Xxx
You KNOW i want to know who did this!!! Because they need to be strung up. This is the second such incident I've read about in the past few weeks and it's sickening.
What a bunch of weenie heads!!! I ADORE your blog & recipes…and have shared them in the past WITH the link only….and not only are your recipes yummy…I ALWAYS get a good chuckle from you as well!
I dont have much advise because Im not up on all the legal stuff when it comes to blogs…HOWEVER…if what they are doing IS illegal?…I would surely reply back mentioning that!
That is completely awful :(
You know my feelings on this. I am so so annoyed that this site thinks you should be grateful that they "allowed" you to fill their content void for free. It's ridiculous. I don't care how many facebook likers you have, you can't take someone's photos – copyrighted property – without permission, and expect them to be okay with it.
Big props for how you handled yourself. Sleeping on it was super wise. I think that a fresh day's perspective always helps.
And, then writing out your thoughts and feelings – I'm right there with ya. Sometimes you just need to get it "out" of you in order to process.
I'm never a fan of bullies – and their response sounds just like one!
Keep on, keepin' on. :)
Stephanie beat me.
I don't speak legal, but I was going to suggest putting a copywrite on your photos using your blog address.
The only other thing can offer, besides moral support, is to pray they gain 20 pounds right away.
OMW – People suck. On a daily basis I am confronted by self centered ignorance and it troubles me. How do you remain calm and nice and teach your children the proper way to address a situation when over all people suck. I'm very sorry this happened to you. Can you ask them to remove it as they never got permission to use it in the first place?
That is so disheartening. It's completely unethical to do what they did and I would be just as upset and frustrated if I were in your shoes. Way to go sharing that story with all of us and telling it like it is!! I have shared photos from your blog before but always just a photo and linking directly to your post for the recipe. I am a newbie on the blogger scene but it seems like common sense and common courtesy not to steal someone elses material for your own personal gain. Keep on keeping on…at least you don't need to worry about that site "helping you out" any longer.
I'd love for someone to email me and tell me WHO did this to you!!!
Grrrr! I am beyond frustrated for you and sorry you had to deal with this….
Clicked over from google to say hi!
<3 Laura @ Laura.newsol@gmail.com
Sorry to hear about the stress. I don't know how I would react in this situation but I am sure you did better then me. I love your blog, your writing and your recipes and its unfair that they treated you that way. Hope things get better.
I saw that post on your FB page the other day and didn't think that was right when I clicked over to their site.
You did the right thing and continue to do the right thing by staying positive and not wasting anymore of your precious energy on it!
And just so you know I thought their blog sucked! And I never use that word:-) Your blog is much more entertaining!!!! I look forward to opening it each night or morning and getting a good laugh and awesome recipe ideas!!! Thanks for your hard work!!
Amy
Ok- I have a few tips and I haven't read the other comments, so pardon me if they are repeats.
1- Add a copyright to your blog (if there is one and I missed it, sorry)- you have to claim your intellectual property. It is very simple to add an attribution to the bottom of your blog in your settings. You should also put a message in the lower part of one of your sidecars that all material on the blog- written and photographed is your express property and cannot be used without your permission. This gives you something to fall back on.
2- Watermark your photos. Since this post has no pictures and I can't remember I'd you already do this, I'm sorry if I'm suggesting something that you already do (but since they took the pictures I'm guessing that you don't). A watermark makes it much less appealing to take your pictures and even if they are at least your web address would be printed right on them.
3- if things like this continue to happen I would go so far as placing your copyright and permissions information at the bottom of every post that contains a recipe.
I'm so sorry this happened. It is heart breaking and angering to be stollen from! My best wishes to you!
MacKenzie
Boldturquoise.wordpress.com
I agree with all of the above- and I definitely second, third, or whatever number it is of the idea to put your blog and it's adddress on your pictures- that way your pictures can't be taken as easily- and it's there plain as day that it's someone else's. I'm sorry that they thought they were doing YOU a favor… I would say, please don't do me any more favors unsolicited. Now shake the dust off your feet and don't allow them to take any more of your mental energy and time :) I found the link to your blog from a friend on FB, so I clicked on it and think you're great.
I am sorry they are doing this to you.:( I was also going to suggest putting your blog site on your pics, and or disabling the right click button. People are so rude!
Kristan, I am sorry you have to deal with this – what they did is not ethical, no matter how "big" they are (or think they are). They took your work, and without even asking, and now they are telling you that they're doing you a favor? It's Cooks Source all over again, and it's not right. I'd be upset, too! *hugs*
I just started reading your blog about a week ago, and I am totally addicted. I'm so sad that this happened to you, because you totally deserve credit for your amazing recipes. I've already made the St. Patrick's Day oreos and the pot of gold cupcakes.
I just wanted to say, you're smart to get this off your chest and move on. Your blog is absolutely HILARIOUS, and I would hate for you to let something like this stop you. I have honestly spent hours (seriously. like, 4 hours.) reading your older posts in the past few days. Keep doing what you're doing, you're awesome.
Ugh, that is the unfortunate thing about the internet- it is SO difficult to control what people do with your words and work. So sorry that you have someone stealing your work… Hopefully some of their viewers will see through their inability to create their own material.
They should not have posted your recipe in it's entirety without your permission first. It's just bad ju-ju. I'm a blogger and if anyone posts my tutorials in full I ask them to remove it. Link or not, why click over if you can see the whole darn thing right there.
Anyways, as for the wording on their site, perhaps they said "recipe adaptation" because you adapted it from King Arthur's cookbook. Perhaps they weren't saying they adapted it, they were acknowledging you adapted it.
Hopefully getting it out there will help you move on.
I would look into watermarking your pictures from now on as well. That way people know where your pictures came from no matter what. If you need help with that, I'd be happy to assist.
cuteasafoxcreations@gmail.com
Kris: I also am appalled by this blogs treatment of your intellectual property. Recipes are not copyrightable, but the photos are.. If you ask them to remove them, by law are required to. Credit given or not. I am so sorry this has happened to you. You're a great writer I so enjoy reading your blog! Thanks for being here!
That sucks, and I feel for you. I guess the fact is… anyone can access and read your page, that is a blessing and sometimes, a curse, as it means those who don't have so much integrity, and are just searching for for data for a post can simply copy/paste anything you write. This happens with peoples' photographs all the time. It's too bad they didn't have more integrity.. at least they put your name on it, even if it was super small. They should have amended it or just taken it down when you contacted them… again, that's when integrity comes in to play. It may have happened with some of your other recipes too and you've never found out! I would email those you catch, but not worry to much about it, and instead try and focus on marketing your site yourself, I am guessing you will have more success setting your own goals than trying to police the internet; but I'm sure you know that :)
That said, I'm going to check out your site! I was referred by a link from one of my friend's blogs (no recipe was posted)!
Kristan,
I just don't know what to say – 'cause none of it is pretty. I pretty much want to strangle this other site (and yes, I know darn well who it is.)
You handled this so, so well.
Rest assured I will never, ever work with these idiots.
Arrrggggh! That would get my goat too!
My that is terrible. :/ I have come across some home-bakery business sites to only discover that they stole the pictures of other, more obviously talented decorators. In the future (and the past), though it is a huge task, I would recommend you watermark your pictures. A good site to use would be: http://picmarkr.com/index.php
You know, I went and looked at their blog the other day and I was wondering what was up with that. Don't let them bring you down, your cookies were adorable and I can't wait to make them!
Kristan, I am so sorry that they were taking advantage of you. I am sure it is something that they do on a regular basis and it makes me sad. I love you and all of your fabulous posts and your calm sensibility. I would have come out swinging and said stupid things and it wouldn't have done anything except make me more angry.
We will get you to 100,000 Facebook Followers so that they will be afraid of you in the future! ;D
Wow…what a flipping experience. You know…you did your part by being pleasant in the initial contact. The last part of them notifying you they won't be using your work again…ugh! You can let that last bit slide and just continue to keep an eye on it. Myself, I would have to resist the temptation to shoot off a snarky response, something along the lines of "WELL, DUH! At least we can agree on that much!"
But it's Lent. Snark is off the table. Baked goodies? Not so much.
PS – I just checked and I am not one of their Fans on Facebook…which is too bad because I wanted to unlike them! ;D
OOOOH — I am so angry for you. Its super frustrating because you can be sure that the other site is "big" because they shamelessly steal the work of other people. THEY EVEN STOLE YOUR PHOTO! I can understand using your recipe to create their own treat and photo and wording and then linking back to you with an "adapted from." And then to top it off — they tell you that you are hard to work with. Ha ha ha. Its so ludicrous its funny.
I admire your integrity. I admire you for not shouting their name and sending your minions to hate them.
I think you absolutely should respond and ask that they remove your work entirely. It's stealing, they know it and are trying to take advanatage of you. I've had similar experiences – I sell cookies on Etsy, and have seen a couple other shops, repeatedly selling "identical" items after I post mine. Adaptations are one thing, giving credit is also good, but taking someone's work without their permission is never acceptable.
PS – i read a TON of food blogs, and you are truly one of the best!
But I was following them on Twitter…was. ;D
Oh…and did I mention that you rock and you are awesome.
I am so sorry you had to be placed in this situation. I am sure it is incredibly frustrating. I think if this happened to me I would write as post as well naming the site, without a link to their website, calling them out. I'm sure with enough negative comments they would take the information down completly. I hope you get some resolution from the situation though.
Any photo you take is automatically copyrighted. Recipes are also copyrighted. (Not the ingredients list but the instructions.) It's not like you joined a party which would give a blogger the ability to post your material, they blatantly stole it. This type of infringement have to stop! I would send a cease and desist.
Wow, that is not cool! You have always been so kind to new bloggers and have always offered thanks to more experienced bloggers who have helped you so it's truly terrible how this site treated you. I'm glad you were able to approach them in a kind manner (I don't think I could have).
This sucks, I kind of went through the same thing although not with a huge site/blogger. They didn't get it…I let it go because I knew I wouldn't get through to them…but I still get pissed about it. I'm so sorry this happened to you. I think I would do it differently if it were a much bigger site.
(sorry I'm on my phone using talk to text)
This is so annoying! I found my stuff on another website earlier today with people praising this persons blog! It was all other peoples images!
I'm with those who said to watermark pics and even to add more copyright info. Mostly though, I just wanted to say I'm sorry this happened to you and that it is definitely not cool!
It really makes you wonder how much of your stuff is taken without ANY props to you at all doesn't it?? I feel ya, sister. Just not right…unfortunately I am not as talented as you in the cooking department..so I don't think they will be stealing any of my Staying Home and Staying Sane stuff. :) But I did have a jerk who commented rudely on every single FB post I made on my blog's page…now THAT was annoying and really ticked me off. I blocked the person.
No way. No way. No way.
Someone did NOT take advantage of my Kristan! You know, I had a similar situation…asked for the post to be removed and was told no. It is beyond frustrating.
I just think that it will come back to bite them in the end. It will happen to too many bloggers and word will get out…I hope.
Proud of you for standing up for what you believe. Happy to call you friend. :)
Ok, I have to admit, I post other bloggers recipe's on my site. BUT I ALWAYS make sure to mention, and link to, their blogs several times throughout the post, as well as mention that they were the original source of the recipe. I feel like food bloggers put their recipe's out there for us to try, and I like to share my favorite's with my readers.
But I agree with you. They should have mentioned your blog as being the original source in a place more noticeable then the bottom {in small print.} I'm a little surprised they haven't either given you credit, or removed the item completely. I would contact them, and explain how unprofessional it is.
On a side note, I really enjoy reading your blog. I swear I have a hundred of your recipe's book marked for me to try. Thanks for everything, and I'm really sorry you're going through this.
I'm so sorry you have to deal with this, no one should have to. Someone else mentioned that you really have no idea what content of yours has been taken in the past and you have absolutely no idea because they have given NO credit whatsoever. It's scary, and people are shady. You have an AWESOME blog and I'm totally going to be a regular reader now!
Good for you for standing up for yourself. I'm sorry you're going through this in the first place.
Honey, you've been plagiarized. Take it straight to the person who did it, and don't be nice about it.
Wow, I can't believe how you've been treated. The initial way they posted your recipe was completely disrespectful but then they made it so much worse with their e-mails to you, unbelievable! I'm so sorry!!
I think this is an excellent blog post for new food bloggers (like me!) because I only recently stumbled upon a discussion on chowhound.com that made me rethink copying recipes. I've always linked in my first paragraph, but was posting the entire recipe too, so now I'm going through all my old posts to remove the recipes.
I just had a similar experience. A quick Copyscape search came up with a site that had four or five of my recipes copied verbatim, along with my photos, and absolutely NO credit whatsoever.
Luckily they don't seem to be have a lot of traffic and they took my content down as soon as I called them on it.
I'm very generous with sharing as long as I'm given the credit but stealing my content is a quick and sure way to make me angry.
Still, how the hell do some people have the nerve to STEAL??
That sucks! I know Amanda of iambaker had the same kind of issue with a food blogger that I follow (I noticed that they had the same photos, recipes, everything), and this blogger also treated her somewhat rudely, as you were treated. I always link to the recipes I use, and even direct-link to the specific post. Baking is fun and rewarding, and it's just poor ettiquette to do a direct copy and take credit for it. ESPECIALLY considering they even used your photo.
Thanks for sharing, and for letting it out. :) PS-I love your blog!
I agree with Cindy. You've been plagiarized and you are within your rights to seek amends. As someone who is both published in print and online, I've seen this too many times and it always makes me sick. Tweeting a link to your piece right now (I don't have many followers but I hope the will click through and read your post).
So sorry for you! It is completely unfair and they are bullies!!!!!! I love your blog and eagerly await for your new posts!!
I didn't read all the comments– but I agree with Kathy– you should add a small watermark to your photos (an easy photoshop thing to do) and then people will be less likely to steal from you. Sorry you had to deal with that. Love your blog!
You are being way too polite to these thieves (and that's what they are). First, you need to add a copyright to your site along with a message that your text, photos, etc., cannot be used w/out your consent.
Chef Dennis of More than a Mount Full blog answers readers' questions about blogging. He talked about copyright and copyright infringement this week: http://www.morethanamountfull.com/2011/03/chicken-teriyaki-and-ask-chef-dennis.html
Do NOT let these thieves get away with stealing your work.
So I just couldn't leave this alone:-) My husband is shocked by the way.
So I went over to their boring blog and posted a comment telling them to give credit where credit is due. It is awaiting moderation. I am sure it won't get posted but I feel better now. And as my husband always says "that is all that really matters!" Hope you do to Kristan!!!!!!!!
Hugs-
Amy
All this stress!
I think we need some comfort food!!
Kristan,
Whip us up something with chocolate!
Don't you love it when people steal your work and think they're doing YOU a favor? A similar thing happened to me but on a much bigger scale. They had the same attitude. It's real frustrating and I'm sorry your going through this! I would communicate with them one more time and ask them to remove the post entirely – if they don't go right to the source – if they're using blogger – flag them and report it.
Hey Kristan,
I can relate with everything you are saying and I had this happen too. I filed a complaint with Facebook's DMCA and they took the entry down the same day. You can report them here:
http://www.facebook.com/legal/copyright.php
Click on the part that says "automated IP infringement form" and just fill it in.
http://www.copyscape.com/
The company I work for is experiencing the same thing. We found out that another vendor stole 60+ pages of copy from our web site. Our company took screenshots of all their plagiarized web pages and are now pursuing legal action. I realize this is mostly a hobby and that it may not be financially viable for you to pursue the same course of action. Through this discovery process we found a service called Copyscape, that identifies plagiarism on the web. I don't know how much it costs but thought you would want to know there are solutions out there.
Er, or the part that says "automated DCMA form".
As a new blogger (only been blogging since Nov. 2010) I try not to step on other bloggers toes. If I ever get an idea or something from another blog I always link to it and make it clear that it isn't my idea or property.
The internet has been described as being the "wild west of the journalism world" because it's so easy to say what you want (with or without facts to back it up) and it's so easy to steal or use other people's work in inappropriate ways. I wouldn't bother e-mailing this site with legal threats or anything because even if you're in the right, they won't take you seriously. But I would post directly to their site in THIS post so people know who they are and what they're doing. (But that's just me.) I know that may seem a little extreme, but a blog's readers place a certain amount of trust in the blogger and I think this other blog's readers (or even potential readers) need to know what's going on. If they've done this to you, I'm sure they've probably done it to a ton of other people as well.
I wish you luck in however you decide to handle the situation and I hope everything works out.
You already know how I feel, Kristan. I'm so sorry you had to deal with this, but you obviously have readers who support you and are behind you.
If you're in a similar situation, Heather's (SprinkleBakes) link above for Facebook is a fantastic one, and when in doubt, you can always refer to David Lebovitz's post on Food Blog Alliance, which links directly to the US Copyright information.
I am so sorry this is happening to you! I love your blog and following you! Keep up the GREAT work here with the hundreds and hundreds of your loving followers. We are all here to support you and your WONDERFUL work :)
Um, er. They've taken the post down, so that is some consolation.
Not cool.
I'd like to know who did this, so I know not to visit their site/blog anymore.
sheina.torres@gmail.com
Some people never learn to play nice in the sandbox. Sorry, you've had to deal with a negative experience.
Kristan, this sucks! I am glad you decided to talk about it and it least get your frustrations out. I know that doesn't make it any better. I would continue to explain to them that they did, in fact, steal your idea!
I'm so sorry you are having to deal with this. I'm 90% sure who we are talking about, quick google search, and it looks like the post has been deleted from their page. I hope this is the case!! Shame on them!!
That really sucks! I think it is pretty unprofessional and to be honest, just tacky. I would be really upset too & I wouldn't blame you at all for anything you say to them! Good job on the idea too! I thought they were really cute!
"I'd like to know who did this, so I know not to visit their site/blog anymore."
I agree with Sheina T.!
mlrw70@gmail.com
If they posted it without knowing you'd be upset about it, then I think I could forgive that part of it, but keeping it up after being blatantly told to take it down, that's just wrong!
Here's a curse for them:
May your crotch be infested with the fleas of a thousand camels… And your arms be too short to scratch ;)
I love when people feature my stuff, but to try and take the credit for something that someone worked really hard on is just plain WRONG! I'm really impressed with your composer because stuff like that makes me mad and I think I might have been mean about it:) There is a small blog that has copied a few of my ideas without even a mention that she got her ideas from me and it really annoys me…but I decided to be the bigger person and just let it go because it was a really small blog. I hate that such a big blog who should know better treated you so poorly!
What a big bunch of meany-heads!! I say you throw mud pies at them! :) But I agree with Mandy. I don't read many other blogs besides yours, so I probably wouldn't visit it anyways, but even more so now. I'm sorry they were such stinkers to you.
From one blogger to another: I know nothing makes it better that they behaved this way (especially such a large site), but I'd like you to know that I have visited your blog many, many, MANY times…meanwhile, I never heard of them until earlier today through another blogger. It's not much, but I know it'd mean a little to me to know that I stand out for myself and not what I find everywhere else, and that's exactly what you do. :)
I'm sorry you had to deal with this, but do know that you were 100% right, and we support you!
I just googled and looks like they removed the post. I hate blogs that copy and paste other's work to make their own blog! I cannot believe how many blogs are using YOUR same photo for their posts. I'm sorry this happened….
You know I saw your post there and was like wow, that's cool. Well now reading your post I have to say so not cool. I just can't believe how big conglomerate bloggers can steal and get away with it.
This seems to be an ongoing problem with blogs these days. I find there is a lot of etiquette for new bloggers to learn, but everyone should know better than to take articles and pics without permission.
Aside from the monetary expense, I hate to think that they essentially stole your article, recipe and pictures, thus stealing your idea and your time.
I know from working in the cookbook industry (for a VERY short time) that you cannot copyright a recipe, but the proper etiquette is to ask, link, and give credit where credit is due.
I love how they think they did you some favor.
I hope your venting makes you feel a bit better…
I am so sorry that this happened to you. People with a conscience wouldn't do this sort of thing. I always make sure that I give proper credit and I would never, ever use someone's photo. My photos may be sucky, but they are my sucky photos and that is what goes on my blog. I just point people in the right direction to see the original beautiful photos. I have to admit that I did a quick search out of curiosity and I came up with a blog that has the same post with the oreos. It may be the same one you are talking about but this one did not have that many Facebook friends. They gave you a tiny little credit at the bottom. I am going to send you an email before I let them know how I feel about this. My little blog is just something I like to do, and I would be upset if someone stole my words and photos, let alone if this was my business.
First of all, you rock. Totally. You are funny, and personable, and if I was your neighbor, I would visit you all the time (even though you live in the boonies, and being your neighbor would be like a mile long walk… which would be totally worth it because of all the calories I would consume visiting tee hee!!) No matter how many of your recipes other blogs attempt to "work with you" on, (or how many followers they have) they could never be you.
Anyway, you can totally send them another nice letter, and include a link to this article: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/908549/stolen_blog_content_reprinting_articles.html?cat=15 which basically says that they owe you $750 for "working with you." Let them know that you will accept check, moneyorder, or paypal. You expect payment within 5 business days, or proper credit for your work, removal of the recipe, and LINKS back to your site.
Good Luck!
MAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAANNN…….I dont want my favorite blogger MAD or SAD, you are the sunny bright spot in my day! After finding you a few weeks ago and making your lipstick cookies and lips cupcakes for a friend who started chemo for stage iv ovarian cancer (who by the way almost fell out of her chair laughing and smiling when I brought them to her!) I feel like I owe you a TON for allowing me to bring a smile to her face – it had been a long time! I ALWAYS drop your blog's name to my buddies and any other place I can find because you are GREAT! I LOVE your honest writing, it crackes me up! THANKS and SCREW THEM (that is bascially my point but I like to ramble).
I just about cried over reading your post today. Just know th=at you are truely one of the most original, amazingly creative food bloggers I've seen in ages! You are going to be HUGE one day like Amy Atlas or Bakearella. I'm thankful to hear that "they" took the post down. Could you please e-mail me who the evil plagerists are? I'd prefer to know who the wolves are amongst the sheep. Hugs to you, my friend. :)
Sorry to hear this. It's so frustrating when you see your hard work copied or stolen. Get over to creativecommons.org to get some copyright verbiage for your blog. It gives you some protection & leverage for your work that is in plain sight before they copy & paste your content to fill their own site.
Thank you for sharing- I too am appalled that someone would treat another human being like this. People never cease to amaze me. I very much enjoy your blog and I will continue to come and enjoy your wonderful recipes! I also never realized how the "click" worked on links and now that I understand that, I will make sure to share recipes using links only! Good luck and I hope you are able to find a resolution that brings you peace.
ok, first of all, the silver lining in this is that it was through the "other blog" that I came to know about your site (love it!). However, as a totally unbiased peruser of blogs, I do remember thinking that it kind of looked (on their blog and on facebook) that they were indeed taking some credit for the recipe and I was somewhat confused at first as to whose recipe it actually was. Once I got through all the verbiage and found your blog link, it was my understanding that you had created the cute shamrock cookies. You do have to allow that they credited you in some way, although I completely agree that it was very misleading on their part as to who deserved credit, and they should have just linked to your post in the first place (no copying and pasting, except for maybe the photo with a link…which is what I do).
I feel for you, it's not fun to have a "virtual" disagreement with another blogger and then have to deal with the fallout. For the record, I like your blog better anyway; you're much more relate-able, and funny! :)
I'm sure that there aren't many things that we can say to make the icky-ness go away. But just know that there are so many of us followers who adore your work and will stick up for you in a heartbeat. Thank you for all that you do! Keep your chin up! :)
I can't believe how frequently this happens. I am sorry you've had to deal with it, but I am also sort of relieved to know that I'm not the only way who feels this way about the whole thing. I love when people like my recipes/photos enough to share them, but that afterthought "link" hidden at the bottom always makes me SO angry. I just can't understand how anyone could think that was acceptable… And oh my gosh – I can't believe they were so pompous about "helping you." WTF? You don't need help, girlie!
Before reading this, I never had the courage to say anything, but I'm going to start standing up for myself now, thanks to you! I'm really glad you said something, and I'm SO happy that their "fans" called them on the whole thing! I doubt it's the case, but I really hope they've learned something through this.
By the way, I agree with other commenters that at the very least your photos should have a watermark with your web address. If you have photoshop, it's easy-peasy to do and I'd be happy to give you a website address with step-by-step directions.
Wow! Ok, how did they did to be such a big sight ripping off other people's stuff? That is really wrong, and I am sorry you are stuck in the middle of it! They should know better and be respectful of fellow foodie bloggers. I don't have any advice for you, but I'm pissed off for you! I'd have to sleep on it to or else I know I'd do/say something rash. Good luck. I think you and your blog are great!!
I really hope you reply to my comment because I am very curious about this topic. I have a personal (though not private blog). The only reason I have this blog is so I can copy recipes that I like and when I want to go make them I have them in a central location and don't have to search a bunch of bookmarks. I can organize it my way. I also get asked all the time for my recipes from my friends so I can say "it's on my blog". I've tried to use the "link" feature in Blogspot but it never works for me so what I do is list the name of the recipe in my post along with the name of the blog. I don't want to offend anyone nor steal any work but i want an easy way to keep the recipes that I want. Can you tell me if this would be considered a copywrite issue or offensive to a blogger.
Educate me please.
I don't remember what blog I was on when I found your site, but I am SO glad I did because I adore you and I love your site. You make me want to be an amazing baker. Also there is no other blog that makes me laugh as much as yours. Dust those peeps off your shoulders because you are doing a GREAT job and I'm happy to help you make money as you provide me with happiness everyday. I wouldn't waste time responding to them. Seems like it would only fall on deaf ears anyway.
Send them an invoice. Add a generous honorarium for the unauthorized posting (STEALING) of your work.
Kristan, you are so talented and awesome. But i get what you are saying and you have the right to be upset.
I don't have any legal advice… and I'd probably resort to something like telling everyone who they are so they can be boycotted, i guess i'm not as mature as you are.
just look at all these fans commenting… including me… we adore you and your mad baking skillz ;)
Its disgusting what they did u-I noticed your cookie receipe when I visited the other day/thought it cute and clever…I am like Laura in post 12-I would like to know who did this to u
…if someone would like to email me: aunteegem@yahoo.com….tia….just wondering because if either I am a email sub…fb fan…I want to unsubscribe,unlike….
I am being honest here: I like u and like your blog…I think you are a sweet and nice person.
keep up the good work-don't let those dodo birds discourage u…
aunteegem@yahoo.com
(Posting from my phone- my comouter at work won't let me post comments-but I didn't want to wait until tonight to comment…) I really admire your talent and love your site. I look forward to getting a "post notification" from you- it's truly a highlight for me!!!
Unfortunately, many people don't seem to want to work for themselves and they rely on other people and the "easy way out". It's maddening that this is how many children are being brought up. I think your handling of this is mature and admirable. I wish you didn't have to experience it. Way to go though and please, keep blogging! You are an inspiration to the baker's out there… !!!
I too would be hurt and upset by this too!!! I am a fairly new reader to your blog and also follow it regularly!!! Although I haven't used any of your recipes… YET… but you inspire me so much especially with your creative cupcakes!!! If there is ever a time I want to share a particular recipe from your blog, I will be linking it properly to your page. It is only fair. I too would hope to expect the same thing to my bloggers that read my blog.
I have to say I am very curious how to make money from my blog. I have been blogging for about 3 years now, and would love to make my blog work more for me and eventually sell my own work from my blog. Any comments or suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated!!!
I am a huge fan of your blog and love your way with words!!!! You have a great sense of humour!
Cheers
Andrea
I have no new words of wisdom for you but just wanted to let you know how much I love your blog and guess I should just jump right on over to FB and like you!
Keep up the great work — always enjoy your posts!
Sue
I am new to your blog, but love it! You do a great job as far as I am concerned. And I know how you feel. I had a situation (completely different) and my feelings were exactly the same. Unfortunately, I let them have my wrath (through email, because I don't like confrontation). Then the next day I emailed back and apologized, knowing the anger was just not worth it. That was several years ago, and I still get riled up thinking about the situation, but again, I let it go. There was no money involved for me, so it was something I could abandon (it was a volunteer thing that was 'stolen' from me). Good luck to you!
Wrong and beyond RUDE!!! I'm so sorry you had someone do this to you. Makes me really, really angry. I've had something similar happen, and my little bitty blog is TINY. Whenever I am inspired by someone's recipe and I end up posting what I made–I link up a storm and give proper credit to the original source. I also send them an e-mail or comment on the post to let them know they inspired me. Anyone with 1/2 a brain would do the same, and should. When I first started blogging, I read your Blogger's Code of Ethics and make sure to follow it–although most of it is common courtesy if you are a decent person.
You truly are a woman of many sparkles! :) They way you handled yourself is very admirable. I would have been foaming at the mouth and ranting on their page! Good for you. I love, love your blog and you make me laugh. :)
Uhhhh, that would be *the* way. More coffee, please. :)
Great explaination of your heart and your business. The thing is that this blog is YOUR intellectual property and while they "cited" their source, they overstepped.
Sorry this had to happen. Yes, the other site has tons of followers (one less now!), but they clearly should have linked to your blog. Not much consolation, but they have removed the post, albeit the wording didn't acknowledge their mistake.
Seriously the nerve of some people!!! I am going to google and see if I can figure out who did this to you because I don't want to like their page either:-( I have had similar small issues with people taking my recipes and pictures and not giving credit back…right now I don't make any money with my blog, so I just let it go and started watermarking my pics with my blog name. I would highly suggest this for you too. Shake it off and move on…you are awesome! (just look at all the comments of everyone supporting you:-) You are an inspiration to me and I love getting my daily chuckle from you! Sure wish we were neighbors because I think you and I would have an absolute blast in the kitchen coming up with some yummy treats!
Hugs!
I am so sorry this happened to you. I love your blog and I check it EVERY morning when I get to work and hope for an update :) Try not to let this bring you down and I think you did the right thing by contacting them. It's just unfortunate that they aren't going to do anything about it. I am not aware of what site you are referring too, but clearly you are the bigger person (blogger) and should be proud of yourself for that. Take care and I look forward to many more fun blogs from you!
Sorry dear but Im agree with you I blogged three years almost four and happens these things I find my recipes in curious sites, but you have a lovely and nice blog (I discover a person that copy all my favorites blogs and let comments but she never comments in mine curious!!) You have an amazing blog and nice recipes, have a lovely weekend! gloria
I'm sorry this has happened to you and even sorrier that whichever site did this, the owners don't have enough common courtesy and presence of mind to give you the proper credit and link-backs. It is upsetting for sure that other people don't possess ethical blogging practices. To me, they are Blog Bullies and think that they are entitled to *take* something just because they want it without any regard for the blogger they are taking from.
I don't have any advice on what you should do next but you should be commended for taking the high road as you have. I believe, What goes around, comes around…good and bad.
Keep your chin up…you handled it the right way (way better than I would have for sure!) by being the bigger person. I don't know that I would have been able to "ignore" the second email though. I'm so bummed that the post has been removed as I was off to Google it and leave a bad comment for them!
I'm also sorry this happened. People continually amaze me with their arrogance. I don't blog (yet), but enjoy reading them, so I was interested in hearing how it works. As a result, I'll start clicking on the ads on your page. I agree with what others have said, good for you for taking the high road. I'm a firm believer in what goes around comes around, so I think this will yield positive results for you in the end.
I feel so bad for you. I have an idea though and I haven't read all the comments so someone else may have pointed it out but if you atleast watermark your photos with your logo it'll be harder for people to steal the photo with the link.
I'm glad you pointed out the money making factor about your blog because it lead me to ask this question – I get an email version of your blog and although I often click it open to come to your blog to check out the recipe I don't always. So, if I only read it in my email does that mean you're loosing a click that day?
What brats! And the snarky post that they replaced their stolen post with really seals the deal! I have unliked them and won't be following them anymore.
I love your blog…one of the few that I ALWAYS read when I get the notification, even if I won't make the recipe! Keep on keepin' on…we all love you!
Sarakate
I am so sorry to hear this happened to you. I am also a new blogger (only a couple of months) – and I want to make sure I never do something like this to someone else. What is the etiquette? I did a post about a recipe that I saw on another blog, I put a link to their blog, and used my own photo, but I did republish the recipe (because I wanted to add comments to add my experience to it). Did I do something wrong? Also, how do you know if someone publishes your work, did you juat happen to subscribe to this blog that took your work? I would appreciate your helping me out, so I don't commit a similar offence!
http://girlfriendlifeline.blogspot.com/2011/03/recipe-giant-chocolate-chip-cookie.html
Hello!! I am *new* to the world of blogs (I know, I'm like a decade behind the times) and I've just started reading yours and it shocks me that someone would do something so underhanded! And you are so nice! I think that you handled the situation with grace and (as a firm believer in karma) what goes around comes around. I don't know what I would do if I were in your shoes, but I think you would be justified in any action you take against them.
Keep up the awesome work!
P.S. I love your recipes :)
P.P.S I had no idea that was how ads on blogs worked – I will be sure to click away on your sponsor pages!
You were much more mature than I would have been in the face of blatant stealing. I love your blog and check it every day.
I guess just be flattered that they want to have your mad kitchen skillz (oh yes, I say skillz) and then pity them that they aren't creative enough themselves.
You're awesome!
I'm sorry this happened to you. It has got to be very frusterating! I have a friend who uses a blog for her business, and she is always writing about giving people credit where it is needed.
Sometimes to feel better you just have to let it go. Let karma catch up to them. It does happen. Although if they do it again, definatly get some legal advice and take action. They sound like bullies, and bullies should not be tolerated. Good luck with everything.
I have been reading your blog for a few months now and I just have to so that you are fantastic! I think it is great you took the "high road" on this one, but don't let those bullies take advantage of you! I will continue to share your site with my friends and family and before you know it, I am sure you will far surpass their 55,000 facebook followers. Good luck and keep blogging!
Kris — So sorry something like this had to happen to you because you are so smart and funny and generous with your readers. You handled the situation better than a lot of us would have and I applaud your sense of control and your manners when others have none. Here's hoping the weekend brings better times and joy for you.
First of all, this happens so often where "bigger" sites assume that they are doing you a favor or sending you traffic. "Bigger" sites…get this… your traffic may be great, but when you copy and paste someones entire recipe and photos, why would I want to click over to that persons site?
Secondly, your story about the lemonade, right on. If someone wants to "promote" you, as the site that took your content seems to think they were doing, what they would have done is this. "I know this really great lemonade stand across the street…this is what you can get there and why you'll like it… now head on over to her stand to get some lemonade!"
I'm sorry this stuff keeps happening to you. Sounds like most sites are just ignorant to the rules, but if a site has this many facebook followers, it sounds to me like they should know better, for sure!
I'm sorry you face this. I teach high school students and a piece of the course is on ethics. It is interesting how so many people can rationalize their personal ethics and move forward as if others are at fault. Good luck on your blog and work. Really the true person is how their heart is!
That's terrible! I haven't commented before, but I feel like I should now to let you know that I absolutely adore your site. You crack me up, you should seriously consider doing stand up comedy :)
Good luck with all of this!
I don't have a blog either but thought I'd leave a comment I actually saw this recipe on their site the other day & thought it was such a cute idea of yours. I wasn't able to make the cookies but went back to their site this morning to find your link so I could come over to your blog to see it was removed.(so then I googled until I found your blog:) Being a follower of their blog I think they are a good company… and it looks like they made a mistake that they tried to correct it seems. I'm sorry that you feel like a victim in this. Can't wait to see more ideas of yours! Good luck!
I've been thinking about this post since I first read it last night…and now I wonder about my own habits. Occasionally I will post a recipe on my personal blog with my own pictures and an appropriate link (normally in the preceeding paragraph where is certainly clear where I got it from) but I do list the recipe with any changes and my comments.
Sometimes I do alter the recipe and as you said that means I adapted it…totally get that. But if I made exactly as the creator did & post it that way (with proper credit) is that considered bad blogger etiquette? In my opinion as long as I gave credit to the originating blog that was sufficent but now you've made me think.
I was curious, so I googled your recipe to find the other blog. They have a "statement" and I wrote a comment.
I am new to your blog and I like it. Dont know what possessed me to comment over there, except I thought they owed you an apology.
Forget about them as they are not worth your angst.
Kristan~Sweet Girl!
Your blog is too HAPPY to give them the time of day!
Everything that is meant will come YOUR~WAY and you will be BEAMING!
I wouldn't give them a second thought!
BAKE something instead!
Keep on baking and making and creating the SWEETness that YOU do!
How WEIRD are they!
55,000 "likes" and they refuse to give someone the deserving credit.
That's called DESPERATE!
It will come back to them…soon enough.
Just put it to rest and do what you do BEST!
SHIELD yourself from such negative ENERGY!
I wonder what's so great about them that they have 55,000 LIKES!
Whatever it is…they don't have what you have!!!!
YOU know that!
Let it go and keep on SHINING!
Hugs and PEACE and LOVE!
xoxoxoxox
Teresa
I think the worst thing is that they took your picture to try and carry off as their own! How downright lazy! I think I am right in that the law says you cannot copyright a list of ingredients but the wording of the recipe is different because that is personal to the person making the food…. So if someone adapts the recipe even slightly and rewords it they are ok to do that legaly. But not what this person did.
Also take it from a designer. You do not need to place copyright on any photos you have taken you automatically have the rights on it as you created it…proving it is a different matter!
Your shamrock cookies are awesome by the way! :)
YOINKS!! You've really got a lot of feedback!!
My thoughts: I post recipes all the time, but I never claim to write them, and I find them, try them, change them, then post them how I've made them with a photo of how it turned out for me. I've never linked back to people because I just don't copy and I don't ever truly follow a recipe, I always make it my own. Most of the recipes I've found are on forums where anonymous people have posted them. I would NEVER rip someone's recipe off.
Your recipe is like a poem. If someone took your poem, and the piece of artwork you made to go along with it, and posted it sneakily as theirs, I would make a stink. It's yours, it's not theirs. And like you said, you didn't ask for a favour so you don't need the condescending attitude either.
On the bright side, they think you're great because they copied you, so you can be flattered. Only your conscience can tell you what to do because you're the one who has to live with it. Sometimes we are wronged, and there isn't anything we can do about it, and we have to fluff it off and move forward with positivity. If this is one of those things you feel you can do that with, then more power to you sister. But if not, and you can't let it go, continue to pursue it, continue to be kind, as you have been, and reasonable, and gentle in your approach. A kind word turns away wrath.
They'll feel like doorknobs if they start to get cranky with a sweet girl who's just asking for her own work to remain her own work. But if you go away, you go away, and they'll likely continue to do this to other people. So you make the call, but make sure you can always say you handled it with respect and kindness. Then you win either way.
Be blessed, friend.
I'm sorry but I completely disagree with you.
First of all, for me blogging is a way to share recipes that would not have reached viewers otherwise. I find it somewhat selfish to think that you expect people to click around just to get your recipe, especially if credit is given to you. I am by no means a recipe developer and so I always post recipes from other blogs – although I ALWAYS post the link to the blog where it came from right under the title of the recipe to make it as clear as possible.
Secondly, the law on the copyright of recipes is pretty lenient – and it is much more difficult to justify that a recipe deserves copyright protection than most other works. Your photo, on the other hand, you have complete protection over and I agree that you should feel somewhat offended that it was used without your permission – you do not need to apply for copyright protection it is inherent when you create a work so you are protected for that. More can be found here: http://www.copyright.gov/fls/fl122.html
I don't mean to be critical of your feelings by any means, if you are hurt you have that right, but it bothers me to read something like this when I feel like blogging, although it may be your profession, is a sense of community. Pioneer Woman's recipes are splattered across the blogosphere but I've never once seen her complain – and I think that is just part of the industry.
I often link to sites on my blog (http://alittlenosh.blogspot.com) and I've never thought much about the specifics of how I do it. This was a really helpful post to me, so I don't do the same thing they did. Sorry they did that to you.
Anonymous 126 – Here's where you've got the wrong end of the stick. That site used Kristan's PHOTO. Without asking. Her photo that is very much copyrighted and her intellectual property. And then acted like she should thank them for taking it and using it without her permission. You can bet your backside that if someone has swiped one of PW's photos (that she sells, btw), she would be raising a stink. We know the copyright laws on recipes are lax, but a) common decency tells you you should credit someone's work at the very top of your own inspired post
b) Google can and will ding you for duplicate content. The other site has been around longer. Who do you think Google is going to blacklist and remove from Google listings entirely? That's right, Kristan.
c) The idea that because this site is more popular they have a right to take Kristan's work and fill their content void without paying for it is ludicrous. You would never expect a journalist to put up with that, or any "big" blogger. The fact is, this site can and HAS paid other bloggers when they wanted to feature their work. They thought they could get away with not doing so in Kristan's case because she's relatively new to blogging. Outright fraudulent behavior.
Anonymous-
yes, recipes are meant to be share, and come on, isn't that why most of us blog? to share? I do! and I LOVE to share…my stuff and all the fabulous things I find I like to share with my readers as well…..
But, when a site copies YOUR content word for word and YOUR picture….posts it like it's their content with a little tiny credit link to you below the post……….THAT is NOT sharing.
Also, this site knows better….there are other bloggers who were "featured" on this site and they were asked in advanced AND compensated.
Why some sites with big numbers think they are doing a favor by stealing content and crediting with a small link is beyond me.
Looks like has been removed, and they added a snarky comment on there. Knowing your side and enjoying your blog, I am so annoyed. They are annoying. It is unfortunate that I am reading comments here that indicate that you are being too sensitive. In my opinion, though I am not a blogger, I feel like this is a professional courtesy that they are very privy to that they should be sensitive to rather than holier than thou. This other site is also benefiting from site traffic and clicks, though they are simply summarizing other peoples works and articles to achieve that. They are annoying. They should have made the adjustment and moved forward. They spent more time and effort writing their little rebuttal than it would have required to make the change. If it is any consolation. I do not visit their site, I don't particularly enjoy sites that simply feed in other sites with commentary. I prefer original sites with interesting and entertaining information and photos. Kudos to you.
I am so sorry that this happened. That was wrong of them. And yes, that is your hard work and you deserve the clicks over to your site. I hope this will be a lesson to them.
xoxox
Jen
SUPER lame. You did the right thing. And, for the record, your blog is one of my favorites of all time.
That is SO jerk-ish!
I am a super new blogger and your post made me double check how I link. Once, I think it was my 3rd posting or something I had posted a recipe but couldn't remember where I had found it- the OP found me and ripped me a new one. I hadn't intended to offend anyone, and I about bawled over it! I'm glad that you are taking the high road. I do post recipes I find on other blogs- but I always post their link. I'm sure someone will let me know if that offends them. You are rockin the high road.
Honestly Kristan, you handled it a lot better than most people I know (including myself). I'd be curious to know how many other people they've done this to. Are you able to snoop around their Facebook and see if they're done this to any other bloggers? It's one thing to do it to one person (which is still rude) but it's a whole other ballpark if they've done it to a whole community of bloggers. There would definitely be a case against them if there's proof they're doing this to others. Even if it just bans their facebook page, it still stops them from hurting other hard-working bloggers.
wow. That is crazy. You were way too nice. Well, much nicer than I would have been. They have absolutely no right to take your work and post it on their site at all. I work for a large international "food" brand doing their social media and I find this behavior outrageous. When we find something we want to use (and trust me, you're on our radar *wink wink*)I email the person directly and ask permission and if they have any requests with how/when to post. I follow their requests exactly. They are doing US a favor by letting us use their original work, even though we are fully and clearly crediting another "author". I am so sorry that they did this to you, don't take it sitting down sister! You work hard…. don't be afraid to put your foot down and demand they take it off of their site. As your original work you own it. Ok… I'm rambling. Again, though, SORRY! Hope it gets resolved. Would LOVE to know who they are… tsk tsk unknown blog!!
Ok, I found their site and they posted a sort of retraction today. I looked at their other posts and their credits below the photos are way too tiny. I had to squint and lean into my monitor. tsk tsk LG.
I understand how frustrated you must be! And thanks to this post, I have a better understanding of the blog world. I never thought about the whole just-post-the-link-and-not-the-whole-recipe thing, and I'm going to go through all my old blogs to make sure I haven't done this myself. I was just proud of myself for finally figuring out how to link back to posts. ;) Good luck with this situation, and thanks for opening my eyes to something I didn't know before. :)
I was sent to this post by a friend who has a personal blog because she had concerns herself that she was following the "etiquette" of the blogger community. I found several of these comments puzzling because everyone seems to be taking things to a personal level but clearly did not read this original article in its entirety. There was a link provided by them and when Kristan expressed to them that she was unhappy with the location, they moved it for her. So they were working with her to make things right but when that wasn't enough, this article happened? Stand up for yourself yes, but why is everybody jumping to the conclusion that they are "thieves", "meanies" and "bullies"? That I don't get. They moved the link and then took down the recipe after you posted this article. Let's play fair here and leave the name calling to the playground.
Also, I'm very surprised that no one here has mentioned a little thing called "link juice". Google it and learn that not only were they exposing your blog to their 55k Facebook likers and Twitter followers which include many other blog and industry sites but they were LINKING to your site which strengthens your blog. From there, who else would have picked you up? There is no way to tell now. You're unhappy with 8 followers in one day? You were short sighted in your thinking because the link value in itself wasn't even considered neither was the exposure to other larger blogs that follow them. This could have been handled differently and I'm speaking as a web developer that has designed several blog and ecommerce sites. There are factors here that you didn't consider.
With all that said Kristan, I do wish you the best of luck because you are clearly passionate about what you do. What I hope for you in the future is that you look at things a little less as if you are being attacked and take a step back to look at the bigger picture.
http://www.laylagrayce.com/blog/2011/03/16/shamrock-mint-oreos/
Just found that. They seem to have taken it down, if it's the right blog.
Hope you're feeling better, I adore your blog, especially your savory posts and your tuxedo cupcakes.
If it makes you feel better, I decided to post a couple recipes of your on my friends' facebook pages because of this post. How ridiculous of them to not give you credit. I hope my food-loving friends will undo the horrible treatment from those jerks.
I am sad to read this… I stumbled upon your blog about a month ago and I love it! Thank you for all you do and your hard work… you have a lot of great ideas that are inspiring :)
Thanks again for all you share!
Cindy
I don't think it is fair to write credits or links down below in very small letters….The credits/links should be given in the same size font as the post, at the beginning of the post. Many many bloggers do this. Blogging is showing not only what you do but also what you like in the open.
I understand you are feeling bad that you had to go through this. I have only one thing to say, which is,you don't have to bother too much about people trying to cheat you. You and your blog have a huge fan base and we recognize your incredible talent. Thatis why food bloggers like me keep coming bck to your blog again and again.
Take Care
Yikes. As a semi-new blogger that sometimes gets blogging etiquette wrong, I would understand an innocent mistake. But stubbornly standing their ground when it's your material that they're posting? Wow.
I admire you for holding your tongue and not unleashing on them. 55,000 Facebook followers or not, I say you're pretty classy and it makes me want to support you all that much more.
I think this shows just what a class act you are.
Me? Not so much. And now I know where the offending blog is located. If I had an oily mustache I'd be twisting it. Mwahahahahahahahhaha!
I am really sad to see that happen. I can understand why you did not link to them. 1. You are being the better person and 2. as you said, every click gives you money. If I ever figure out who it was though, I will make sure that the last click they get from me is to remove me as a follower. I love reading blogs and I love seeing referrals on blogs. I have been so interested in getting started blogging in the future myself because of people like yourself that make the blogging amazing.
Hang in there. Popular does not equal right. <3
@Desiree—- "Stand up for yourself yes, but why is everybody jumping to the conclusion that they are "thieves", "meanies" and "bullies"? That I don't get."—–it's because of the way the post was published in the first place, it was copied word for word from Kristan's blog….not worded in their own words. Also, they have featured other bloggers who were asked in advance for permission to publish (with compensation)
"they were LINKING to your site which strengthens your blog."—–but in this case there's the issue of DUPLICATE CONTENT! They copied her post word for word. GOOGLE does NOT like that.
I am relatively new to blog subscriptions etc. I got very confused when I first saw your St. Pattys Day cookies post, then on another site I saw the same photo and recipe. I took a ouble take an wondered what happened? I never SAW your name and thought Hmmnnnn, either you knew about it or it was something fishy! I was disappointed that I saw a "repeat". I love your site and your clear and consise writing. No one would have ever known you didn't attend college. I will make a point of hitting all your ads doll. That site has mud on their face and shame on them. I agree though, you need to reference them and expose them, but on the other hand, that just sends more people to their site. Maybe that's their strategy? You Win! Bravo! Those of us who already saw it, won't return to their site based on principal. You are a class act!
I'm so sorry for you decided all I could do to help is follow you .
best of luck with everything and keep up your great and creative work!
—
Daniela
http://isreview1.blogspot.com
I literally fell on your site from another food blog link – and at first was excited to see another baking blog until I saw this absolute craziness being posted here of late.
I don't really see what the problem was. You were credited. Period. There are images + recipes passed around all the time in the blogging world with appropriate credits, no? I have seen some large credits + some in smaller font, and from what you said the facebook link came directly to you. I am new to your page, and don't know what blog you are referring to – but it pays to play in the blogger world, and it is a small world.
My opinion was based on the facts you presented on your post cutting out the emotional clutter. It just seems like much ado about nothing since it looks from your blog it was a king arthur recipe to begin with. As a blogger and marketer, to have credit and linking from a place you said had 55,000 fans is a huge win. And call me crazy, but a company / blog (whatever) does not get to 55,000 fans by posting things unlawfully.
I don't know how you can possibly call this copyright infringement. If you really want to look at copyright infringement – look at your use for oreo. Are you licensed for the rights for that? And with your linking of your adapted recipe – the same thing was done as what was done with your information on that other site from what you said. You linked to your reference as you posted the recipe on your site. You did not link to the recipe.
I just don't get this malarky – good luck getting advertisers after this bantering post.
I'm sorry that you are going through this. I adore your blog. Some poeple wil just be like that…
That's awful!!! How can those people sleep at night?
I'd put "(c)Confessions of a Cookbook Queen.com" on EVERY Picture like I see on other blogs. Maybe even images of the recipes with that on there too…
I hate people like that! So sorry you are dealing with that! I don't blog but we run a bakery, have a facebook page, website etc. The other day i was cruising our local classifieds and someone had posted an ad for cupcakes using MY pictures!They actually used pictures from Georgetown cupackes in another add. I reported it and the ad was pulled but i was still upset/annoyed. We've since started watermarking our pictures. I'm a member at several cake decorating communities and unfortunately people using others pictures/recipes without proper permissions is a real problem.
So, i agree. Watermark and copy right!
Well, I love Kristan so I'm going to be a little biased here but I want to respond to some of the critical comments above.
One, there is this assumption that if you are a smaller blog you should be grateful if a bigger blog wants to take your content and photos and put them on their blog like they are exempt from common courtesy. I have been blogging for a little over a year and even I knew from the beginning to always give full credit to the original recipe developer, adapt the recipe directions to my own if possible, to link back to their blog and personally I NEVER use their photos I always take my own. I question even writing a food blog if you aren't willing to at least photograph your own food. Even if your photos are not the quality you would like it's better than just taking someone else's.
I can't even IMAGINE people like the Pioneer Woman just copying and pasting someone else's entire post and putting it up on her blog. When she features someone she always writes her own posts, gives them full credit and links in a very pronounced way back to their site.
The large blog in question copied and pasted Kristan's content without permission, word for word with very minimal credit just to fill a void. This wasn't just a case even of taking her recipe and photo but if I remember correctly they took THE WHOLE POST! If they appreciated her work so much then they should have asked her permission, thanked her for such great content and given her plenty of credit. That is how a "big blog" helps and promotes a "smaller blog".
All they seemed to care about was having quality photography and content on their own blog with no thought on how they could benefit Kristan.
Integrity is integrity. If you want to blog with integrity than that comes first before google juice, facebook exposure and marketing. Bloggers who "create" content for their blogs whether it be food, home decor, photography, our writing… and don't just copy and paste everyone elses content…care first about the process of creating. We feel passion about it. It should be respected and honored.
This should serve as a reminder that no matter how big you get you need to remember the common courtesies associated with blogging and if in doubt err on the side of over promoting a smaller blog instead of trivializing their contribution. You never know when that smaller blog will become a huge blog….as I know Kristan is destine to become. :)
You make me smile every time I see a new post Kristan! Keep doing what you're doing and we will be there!
Heather
Legally, your recipes (list of ingredients) are not copywritten, but your photos and instructions and delightful little stories that keep us all coming back to you are yours. You don't have to declare it. The moment you snap a photo or write these things down, they are your artistic and intellectual property. I wouldn't back down to the internet bullies. If they don't use your photos in a way you approve of, they can't use 'em. As in, it's against the law. You work hard on these posts, and you do a great job. Nobody else gets to take the credit from you, and they definitely don't get to tell you they're doing you a favor.
I always enjoy reading your blog posts, just wanted to tell you that I linked you in this week's favorite things.
Thank you for being so funny with all your blog posts! The recipes are always incredible too!
I am proud of you. It takes guts to stand up for yourself and what you have made of your name. I wish you the best…. and I will continue to read your blog and be entertained.
Tracy Fisher (www.tfisherart.com)
I can absolutely sympathize with your avoidance of confrontation and negativity – I'm exactly the same way. But I really think this just crosses the line – like you said, they are STEALING your work and STEALING your revenue. What about that is OK? Nothing!
You tried to be nice and it didn't work… I don't think you should give up there, this is too important and standing up for yourself is key here. Email them back and point out to them that this recipe is your intellectual property, and it was taken WITHOUT permission – credit is irrelevant – they didn't ASK first. Tell them because of this, you want it off their website. I don't think you should need to worry (at this point) about any specific legal threats – just a firmly worded request of removal will hopefully do the trick, and show them you won't back down.
Good luck!!
I just found you tonight for your Oatmeal Spice cookie. You had me laughing outloud! It's too bad to hear about what you have been put through with this situation. And for them to turn around and tell you that they will not be working with you again because of the negative responses (for getting caught!) is just absurd!
My hat is off to you for what you do. Great photography and great writing. I'm looking forward to trying out your recipes.
I hope that you can get some educated bloggers to help guide you in the correct direction of dealing with this. Maybe enough was done? But I think they owe you a HUGE apology for how they have treated you after the initial contact.
In the mean time, go have some fun with your Calorie App! I'm still laughing about that one!
http://www.facebook.com/Lambitious
What was done to you is WRONG and while you don't want to publish the name of the site I would appreciate it if you would email me their name so I can be sure I don't subscribe or click on them again.
mtsliquori@yahoo.com
If your pictures are not copywrited please make sure they are from now on.
Michelle
Alabama
I am so sorry. That so totally sucks. At least you are a super rock star blogger. I just found you. Love your sense of humor!
thats awful that some people dont take pride in things and give credit where credit is due, PROPERLY though. i use to make a lot of graphics and custom work, for FREE and people would tear my graphics apart and slap on their own watermark or just share with others without crediting me and i was beyond upset and just completely done with it all. being the nice person i am, i didnt do any confrontations and i just stopped making it all. i was happier in the end not thinking about the stress. anyways, hopefully you are stress free now and no worries…because you know whose recipe it was and you know that all your true followers know whose recipes they are.
Just found your blog through Today's Creative Blog. Think I'll become a follower even if my diet says, "Nooooooo!" :=) Your site is VERY Professionally executed! Love it!! With that said, I'm off to check out a bunch of your sponsors… Merry Christmas!
I am so sorry this happened to you. You are a bright new star in the blogging world, and I love everything you do! I would love to know who did this to you, so we all can be aware! I hope you feel better, and that they get their "just desserts"! :)
SO sorry that they were such weenies about the whole thing! If I were this blog and I got your email, I would feel so DUMB about it! I don't see what the big deal was about putting a link rather than the recipe, it would take an extra 2 seconds, and be RIGHT. Well I hope that they figure it out and don't do this to anyone else! Found you through TCB! Congrats! :)
You SHOULD make money from your amazing blog, and anyone that thinks you should donate your work to make money for someone else should suck it. It wasn't hard to figure out who the smelly pole cats were. Since my very brief glance at their site revealed blatant pinching without links from other sites I love, I sent them a strongly worded (but totally polite) email. They should send you some fruit roll ups and a box of wine. Thinking that would smooth your ruffled feathers.
What they did was absurdly unethical and, frankly, craven. I think you showed enormous restraint, both in the way you communicated with them, and in the fact that you refrained from naming them in this post! (How in the world did you find the self control to do that?) You really took the high road and you deserve a lot of credit for that. Personally, I cannot stand it when I see someone has adapted a recipe from my blog or even linked to it directly without explicitly noting the name of my blog! It's no different than plagiarizing or stealing. It's pitiful and pathetic on the part of those doing it. Those folks are the lowly scavengers of the food blogging world.
What kind of Internet doofus doesn't understand that you always give the link and let the reader visit the original website? They should definitely remove your recipe from their site. Who needs that kind of "help?"
I'm with you, that's completely uncalled for. It's one thing if they were new to blogging and had made a mistake but were unwilling to correct it, but even after you nicely asked them to give you due credit, they ignored you. People….
By the way I love your blog, keep doing what you do so amazingly!
My friend just sent me a link to your blog… so darn cute, I just keep clicking to read previous posts. We'll not talk about how late it is here and how I really ought to be heading to bed :-).
Anyway, I just thought you might want to check out the Creative Commons. Some parts of recipes can be copyrighted; others cannot… so you may still have to fight that battle, but for other stuff, like photos, attribution or commercialization, creative commons will give you some backup. And it is so nice and simple (and cathartic) to say to someone, "Your post is in violation of my creative commons license. Bwahahaha." Okay, well maybe you would just think that last bit.
http://www.copyright.gov/fls/fl122.html
http://creativecommons.org/
I realize this is months after the fact, but I am just reading your post now. I love how you handled yourself! I agree with Bridget when she says it'll come back to them somehow. Karma.
I was excited to read this and your blogging code of ethics. I'm new to the blogging world – I have two! Count 'em…TWO posts!! – and I want to make sure I am never improper about my work.
If you have a second, come visit me @ maiabees.com I'm a new Stay at Home mom and I just can't seem to enjoy my free time!! I've started a blog instead!! :)
Thanks again for your honesty. I love your candid posts!!
Found you via pinterest which had a kool-aid cupcake photo linking to your recipe up…and now I'm hooked.
BUT, I wanted to pass on: http://linkwithlove.typepad.com/ Kal Barteski's crusade after having art and such ripped off recently. I thought that it was apropos after reading this…you aren't alone! Some people just have no idea how to use the internet!
Now I am going to go drool on your blog….err, my computer and wish I had a kitchen to bake in at the moment.
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