Schools Cancel Class Photos Over Epstein Concerns

Lifetouch, a major school photography company, denies any connection to Jeffrey Epstein

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Several school districts in the U.S. have canceled class picture plans after widespread social media posts linked Lifetouch, a major school photography company, to billionaire investor Leon Black, who had ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Lifetouch and Apollo Global Management, which acquired Lifetouch's parent company in 2019, have denied any relationship between Epstein and Lifetouch.

Why it matters

The cancellations highlight ongoing concerns about Epstein's connections to prominent individuals and organizations, even years after his death. The decision by schools to avoid Lifetouch reflects a desire to distance themselves from any potential association with Epstein, given the sensitive nature of the case and the impact it has had on many communities.

The details

Lifetouch, which photographs millions of students each year, was acquired by funds managed by Apollo Global Management in 2019 - a month after Epstein's death. Apollo's former CEO is billionaire investor Leon Black, who had regular contact with Epstein and received financial advice from him. Both Lifetouch and Apollo have denied any relationship between Epstein and Lifetouch, stating that neither Black nor Apollo's directors or investors ever had access to Lifetouch photos.

  • In September 2019, Apollo's $2.7 billion acquisition of Lifetouch's parent company Shutterfly was completed - a month after Epstein's death.
  • In March 2021, Leon Black stepped down as Apollo's CEO, citing a desire to focus on his family, health, and other interests.

The players

Lifetouch

A major school photography company that photographs millions of students each year.

Apollo Global Management

An investment firm that acquired Lifetouch's parent company Shutterfly in a $2.7 billion deal in 2019.

Leon Black

The former CEO of Apollo Global Management, who had regular contact with Jeffrey Epstein and received financial advice from him.

Jeffrey Epstein

A billionaire investment manager who died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Lifetouch (Lifetouch statement)

“Apollo and its funds also have no role in Lifetouch's daily operations and have no access to student images.”

— Apollo Global Management (Apollo statement)

What’s next

Schools are evaluating alternative options for class pictures for the 2026-2027 school year, as concerns about Lifetouch's connection to Epstein continue.

The takeaway

The cancellation of school picture days highlights the ongoing impact of the Epstein scandal, as schools and parents seek to distance themselves from any potential association with the disgraced financier, even through third-party vendors like Lifetouch.