Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted School and Family Photography Services Nationwide
Olan Mills has been the professional photography choice for schools and families for over 80 years. Founded in 1936, we pioneered school photography and expanded our services to include preschool milestones, senior portraits, sports events, and yearbooks. Our acquisition by Shutterfly in 2018 strengthened our ability to deliver high-quality personalized products through advanced technology. We operate a nationwide network of photographers and have captured over 58 million images annually across the U.S. and Canada. Our patented equipment and innovative processes ensure efficient, accurate results.We introduced underclass photography, ID cards, and digital solutions for school administrative systems. Our Employee Stock Ownership Plan since 1978 reflects our commitment to employee ownership and community impact. We partner with schools and organizations to create lasting memories while maintaining a trusted household name. Our history includes the acquisition of Jostens' school photography business and Olan Mills' church photography division. Two of our patented cameras are preserved at the Smithsonian Institution for their cultural significance.
Services
Preschool Photography
School Portraits
Senior Portraits
Sports Photography
Yearbooks
Business Headshots
JCPenney Portraits
Details
- Year established: 1936
Highlights and features
- We have over 80 years of experience in school and family photography.
- Our patented technology ensures accurate and efficient image delivery.
- We offer nationwide coverage across the U.S. and Canada.
- Our Employee Stock Ownership Plan demonstrates long-term commitment to quality.
- We pioneered underclass photography and digital administrative solutions.
Services
School Portraits
We provide professional school portraits for students from kindergarten through graduation. Our services include traditional individual portraits, class composites, and ID cards. With patented equipment and digital systems, we ensure efficient, high-quality results for schools and families.
Senior Portraits
Our senior photography captures milestone achievements with personalized sessions. Through school partnerships and studio locations, we offer customizable packages to highlight each student's unique personality and accomplishments during their graduation year.
Yearbooks
We create comprehensive yearbooks featuring student portraits, sports teams, and school events. Our programs include design assistance, production, and distribution services to document annual school memories for students and families.
Sports Photography
We specialize in capturing team dynamics and athletic achievements with individual and group portraits. Our services include customizable product options and professional techniques to showcase team spirit and player personalities for leagues and schools.
JCPenney Portraits
Our JCPenney studio locations offer accessible family photography sessions for special occasions. Services include holiday portraits, milestone celebrations, and lifestyle sessions designed to create lasting memories for households nationwide.
People
Bruce Reinecker
Co-Founder
Co-founded National School Studios in 1936 with $500 startup capital. Pioneered school photography partnerships and later established the company's ESOP in 1978 to transfer ownership to employees.
Eldon Rothgeb
Co-Founder
Partnered with Bruce Reinecker to launch National School Studios in 1936. Developed the initial business model for school photography expansion across rural Minnesota before nationwide growth.
Dr. Decker
Principal Partner
Principal at Panther Creek High School who emphasizes the historical importance of photography. Trusts Olan Mills for capturing student milestones and creating lasting educational records.
Mrs. Batchelor-Mapp
School Partner
Assistant Principal at River Dell Elementary who collaborates with Olan Mills for school photography programs. Focuses on delivering high-quality images that families treasure across elementary school levels.
Mary-Sue
Preschool Partner
Owner of The Goddard School who partners with Olan Mills for preschool photography. Values the company's ability to capture early childhood milestones as important family traditions.
Questions
How do I order school pictures?
Visit our website to find your school's picture day and place your order online.
What photography services do you offer for families?
We provide JCPenney portraits, senior photography, and special event sessions.
Are you affiliated with Shutterfly?
Yes, we joined Shutterfly in 2018 to enhance our product offerings and technology.
Do you serve schools outside the U.S.?
We primarily operate in the U.S. and Canada.
How can I find a photography studio location?
Use our online studio locator tool to find the nearest JCPenney Portrait Studio.
What makes your sports photography unique?
We specialize in capturing team spirit with customizable products and professional techniques.
