Outside the Lens

The way we communicate globally is changing rapidly; more than 70% of internet traffic (and rising) is video. Outside the Lens prepares youth for this digital future by teaching them 21st century communication skills that build their digital and media literacies. We empower youth to use photography, filmmaking, and digital media to create change within themselves, their community, and their world. Since 2001, over 15,000 OTL students (in the US, China, Colombia, Thailand, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and more!) have learned photography, film, and digital media arts through hands-on projects exploring identity, family, community, the environment, and the world. Outside the Lens has four core program areas: Outside the Lens is based in sunny San Diego where we operate out of our media lab and gallery in the Liberty Station Arts District.