Outside the Lens
Melanie Kaplan is a seasoned media educator with a strong background in art and photography. Currently serving as a Media Educator at Outside the Lens since January 2022, Kaplan empowers youth through digital media tools. Previous experience includes working as an Urban Beats Youth Support Partner at San Diego Youth Services, where Kaplan utilized arts and social media to support transitional aged youth. Kaplan also has a history with Outside the Lens as a Media Educator through AmeriCorps, and as a co-owner and freelance photographer at Mel & Ariele Photography. Additional roles in customer service and photography include positions at Starbucks, Elite Photography, and the Illinois State University Photography Department. Kaplan earned a Bachelor of Arts in Photography from Illinois State University in 2013.