Major School Photography Company Under Scrutiny Amid Epstein-Related Rumors
One of the largest school photography companies in the United States is facing district-wide investigations and canceled photo shoots following unsubstantiated online rumors. The allegations suggest that children's photographs could have been accessed by individuals named in the Jeffrey Epstein files, creating widespread concern among parents and educators.
School Districts Launch Immediate Investigations
Several school districts announced this week that they have initiated formal investigations into Lifetouch, the popular photography company. This action stems from its former, indirect ownership by billionaire businessman Leon Black, who was an associate and friend of the late convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Clifton Public Schools, one of New Jersey's largest districts, wrote in a letter to parents on Wednesday: "At this time, no evidence has been presented indicating misconduct involving Lifetouch's operations within our schools or any compromise of student information. Nevertheless, we believe it is appropriate to review the matter carefully and transparently."
Lifetouch has firmly denied any wrongdoing, but the concerns have prompted significant action across multiple states.
Photo Days Canceled Amid Safety Concerns
In Arizona, Prescott Valley Charter School informed parents on Tuesday that it was canceling picture days scheduled for later this week "out of an abundance of caution." The school's announcement stated: "While we do not have any information indicating a direct impact on our school or our students, our highest responsibility is always the safety, security, and trust of our families."
California's Alisal Union School District in Salinas described the rumors as "disturbing" and an issue that "deserves immediate attention" in their communication with parents. The district's superintendent emphasized their commitment to addressing parental concerns seriously.
The Leon Black Connection
The rumors specifically focus on Leon Black, who served as CEO and chairman of Apollo Global Management until 2021. The private equity firm owns Lifetouch through its 2019 acquisition of Shutterfly, which had purchased Lifetouch in 2018. Notably, the Lifetouch acquisition didn't officially close until September 2019, one month after Epstein's death.
Black resigned from Apollo following an investigation that revealed he had transferred millions of dollars to Epstein between 2012 and 2017 for financial services. While Black has faced sexual assault allegations and lawsuits related to Epstein, he has not been criminally charged and denies any wrongdoing.
Online Speculation Without Evidence
Black's past connection to Lifetouch has sparked online speculation, without supporting evidence, that he may have benefited from inappropriate access to student photographs. Some have also incorrectly claimed that Lifetouch was nefariously listed in the Epstein files. While the company's name does appear in the documents, it's within a 2019 bank statement belonging to someone involved in the Epstein death investigation.
Lifetouch's Strong Denial and Privacy Assurance
In response to growing concerns, Lifetouch issued a comprehensive statement this week affirming its commitment to student privacy. The company emphasized that Leon Black never had access to student images and that they strictly follow all applicable federal, state, and local data privacy laws.
A company spokesperson stated: "When Lifetouch photographers take your student's picture, that image is safeguarded for families and schools, only, with no exceptions." They further described the claims as "completely false."
Lifetouch CEO Ken Murphy acknowledged Black's former ties to Apollo Global Management but stressed: "No past or present member of Apollo's Board of Directors or Apollo's investors have ever had access to student images, for any purpose."
The company detailed its privacy protocols:
- Student photos are only shared for school records and parent/guardian purchase
- Lifetouch has never provided images to any third party
- The company complies fully with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
- Lifetouch prints free SmileSafe cards for each photographed student through its partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
Parental Concerns Remain Unresolved
Despite these assurances, some parents remain unconvinced. Megan Montanez, whose daughter had her photograph taken by Lifetouch in the Clifton School District, expressed ongoing concerns about proper safeguards.
"It's not a stretch to assume that just because you don't have a direct role in something that you don't have access to other functions, especially as someone in a leadership position," she said. "I think we as parents aren't angry enough."
Montanez advocated for schools to use local photographers and for greater transparency in how companies are selected. She criticized what she called a "gross oversight" in vetting, noting that Black's connection to the company was public information since 2021.
Attempts to reach Leon Black for comment were unsuccessful, and Apollo Global Management did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The situation continues to develop as more school districts consider their relationships with the photography giant.
