Metro Detroit Schools Cut Ties with Lifetouch Over Epstein Concerns

Districts suspend photography services amid worries about company's leadership ties.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Several school districts in Metro Detroit, including Dearborn Public Schools, Redford Union Schools, and Wyandotte Public Schools, have suspended or canceled their photography contracts with Lifetouch after the company was linked to individuals mentioned in the Epstein files. The districts cited concerns over student data and photo privacy, despite Lifetouch's denials of any wrongdoing.

Why it matters

The decision by these school districts highlights growing public concerns about the privacy and security of student data, especially when it involves companies with ties to high-profile individuals accused of misconduct. It also reflects the challenges schools face in vetting their vendors and partners to ensure student safety.

The details

Lifetouch, one of the largest school and family photography companies in the country, was linked to Leon Black, the former CEO of Apollo Global Management, which acquired Shutterfly shortly after Jeffrey Epstein's death. This connection raised alarm bells for parents and school officials, who worried that student data or photos could have been accessed or stored by individuals connected to Epstein. While Lifetouch has denied any wrongdoing, the districts decided to take a proactive approach and suspend their contracts with the company pending further investigation.

  • On February 17, Redford Union Schools suspended all scheduled photography sessions and services with Lifetouch.
  • On February 13, Wyandotte Public Schools announced it would end its relationship with Lifetouch and transition to a new provider for the upcoming school year.
  • In a February 19 letter, Dearborn Public Schools confirmed it has paused all contracted services with Lifetouch.

The players

Lifetouch

One of the largest school and family photography companies in the country.

Leon Black

A former associate of Jeffrey Epstein who previously served as the CEO of Apollo Global Management, the company that acquired Shutterfly.

Judy Nachman

Interim superintendent of Redford Union Schools.

James Anderson

Superintendent of Wyandotte Public Schools.

Ken Murphy

CEO of Lifetouch.

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What they’re saying

“While Lifetouch has released public statements asserting that no past or present board members had access to student photos and that they maintain strict adherence to federal and state privacy laws like FERPA, we believe a proactive approach is necessary.”

— Dearborn Public Schools (Dearborn Public Schools)

“We are writing to inform you that the district has made the decision to immediately suspend all scheduled photography sessions and services with Lifetouch. This action follows recent reports and social media concerns regarding ties between executive leadership and at Lifetouch's parent company and individuals under investigation.”

— Judy Nachman, Interim Superintendent, Redford Union Schools (Redford Union Schools)

“I want to emphasize that there are many kind, professional photographers we have worked with who are unfortunately impacted by this news. However, when it comes to student safety, I do not believe there is such a thing as being 'too safe.'”

— James Anderson, Superintendent, Wyandotte Public Schools (Wyandotte Public Schools)

“When Lifetouch photographers take your student's picture, that image is safeguarded for families and schools, only, with no exceptions. Lifetouch does not – and has never provided – images to any third party.”

— Ken Murphy, CEO, Lifetouch (Lifetouch)

What’s next

The investigation into the concerns surrounding Lifetouch's leadership connections remains ongoing, and the districts have indicated they will continue to monitor the situation and explore alternative photography providers.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance for schools to thoroughly vet their vendors and partners, especially when it comes to sensitive student data and privacy. It also underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability from companies that work with schools and handle student information.