Hi, I’m Mels Kates. I’m a photographer and emerging theatre media creator recently graduated from studies in photography at Ithaca College. I love collaborating on productions and events to capture authentic moments and tell engaging visual stories. When I’m not behind the camera, I edit photos and videos with Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Premiere Pro, and I help design social media content that resonates with audiences. I enjoy learning new skills, working with creative teams, and turning ideas into polished visuals for stage and screen.…

Mels Kates

Hi, I’m Mels Kates. I’m a photographer and emerging theatre media creator recently graduated from studies in photography at Ithaca College. I love collaborating on productions and events to capture authentic moments and tell engaging visual stories. When I’m not behind the camera, I edit photos and videos with Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Premiere Pro, and I help design social media content that resonates with audiences. I enjoy learning new skills, working with creative teams, and turning ideas into polished visuals for stage and screen.…

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Mels Kates. I’m a photographer and emerging theatre media creator recently graduated from studies in photography at Ithaca College. I love collaborating on productions and events to capture authentic moments and tell engaging visual stories.

When I’m not behind the camera, I edit photos and videos with Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Premiere Pro, and I help design social media content that resonates with audiences. I enjoy learning new skills, working with creative teams, and turning ideas into polished visuals for stage and screen.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Photographer at Shutterfly LifeTouch
September 1, 2025 - November 1, 2025
Worked with people of all ages in a fast-paced environment; Quickly produced and edited photographic portraits; Called clients and scheduled appointments
Assistant Teacher at DEAN Adventure Camps
June 1, 2024 - August 1, 2024
Worked with people of all ages in a fast-paced environment; Taught and advised creative and STEM projects; Connected and communicated with new people daily
Independent Photographer at Self-Employed
August 1, 2023 - March 1, 2025
Barista at Dailies Cafe, Ithaca College
August 1, 2023 - March 1, 2025
Used online and in-person instruction to create orders for guests - Worked quickly and efficiently in a high-pressure environment - Provided customer service
Barista at Dailies Cafe - Ithaca College
August 1, 2023 - March 1, 2025
Used online and in-person instruction to create orders for guests; Worked quickly and efficiently in high pressure environment; Provided customer service
Freelance Photographer, Editor at Twisted Minds Theatre
April 1, 2023 - Present
Photographed and assisted in filming live events; Edited and produced photos using Adobe Photoshop; Curated groups of images for social media and album use

Education

Associate Degree in Photography at Bucks County Community College
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2022
Bachelor of Science in Cinema & Photography at Ithaca College
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2025
Photography at Bucks County Community College
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2022
B.S. in Cinema & Photography at Ithaca College
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2025
Photography at Bucks County Community College
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2022
B.S. Photography (Cinema & Photography) at Ithaca College
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2025

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Retail, Professional Services, Other, Travel & Hospitality