Lifetouch Responds to Epstein & School Photo Concerns in Washington State

There’s a growing conversation happening in parent groups across the country, and now here in Washington, about the school picture company Lifetouch.

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The concern centers around online claims tying the company to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Parents in multiple states have posted questions about whether their school districts should continue using Lifetouch for student photos.

Washington State Parents Concerned About School Photo Company

In Washington, members of the “50501 Movement Washington State” Facebook group pointed out that many local schools use Lifetouch. Some parents say it is about transparency and understanding who ultimately owns the company, photographing their children each year after concerns of ties to Epstein emerged.

Here’s what’s driving the controversy.

Lifetouch is owned by Shutterfly. In 2019, Shutterfly was acquired by investment firm Apollo Global Management. Apollo was co-founded by billionaire investor Leon Black, who has been publicly reported in major outlets regarding his past financial ties to Epstein.

That timeline matters. Apollo funds purchased Shutterfly in September 2019, only one month after Epstein’s death, while awaiting trial.

There is no evidence in publicly released federal records that Epstein ever had access to Lifetouch photos or databases. Still, for some parents, the indirect corporate link raises concerns about student data and image storage.

Lifetouch Responds to the Allegations

Lifetouch has strongly denied the claims. In a statement taken by our sister station, the company said:

“No Lifetouch executives have ever had any relationship or contact with Epstein and we have never shared student images with any third party, including Apollo. Apollo and its funds also have no role in Lifetouch’s daily operations and have no access to student images.”

The company also emphasized that Apollo acquired Shutterfly after Epstein had already been jailed and after his death.

How Schools Are Reacting

Some districts in other states have postponed or canceled picture days after parent feedback. In places like Malakoff, Texas, schools chose to keep photos in-house for the remainder of the school year while reviewing options.

Here in Washington, districts appear to be monitoring the conversation. As of now, there have been no widespread cancellations announced locally.

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