Lifetouch History

Lifetouch became the world’s largest photography company one portrait at a time.  Our story began in 1936, when Bruce Reinecker and Eldon Rothgeb decided to bring their “School Photography of Distinction” to one-room schoolhouses throughout rural Minnesota. Sharing a tiny apartment, a cramped office space, and a dream, the two hopeful young men poured their talents into their company. A little more than a decade after its founding, it had become the largest school photography firm in the country.

After 50 years of business, the emotional value of Lifetouch photography services was apparent. To celebrate our anniversary, we commissioned the sculpture “Familia,” which depicts the family as a nurturing base and reflects the spirit of our mission: to capture images that celebrate life.  This same dedication to quality photography has served Canadian families for over 30 years.

Today, under the leadership of chairman and CEO, Paul Harmel, we continue as an industry leader, connecting communities and preserving cherished moments. Lifetouch truly provides photography for a lifetime.