Is my child's photo safe? What happens to my photo?
Updated October 30, 2026 · 4 min read
When you create an avatar for a personalized book, we do not save the original photo you upload. We save the illustrated avatar created from it so you can personalize your stories. We do not use customer data, including uploaded photos and generated avatars, to train AI models. To request account or content deletion, email support@magicstory.com.
Your child's photo is used to create their illustrated avatar. The answers below come from our privacy policy, quoted where the exact words matter.
Do you keep the original photo?
No. The policy says: "When you create an avatar for a personalized book, we do not save the original photo you upload. We save the illustrated avatar created from it so you can personalize your stories."
The avatar is the illustrated character you see in your preview and your books. We save it so you can use it again. When you are signed in, you can find it on your page.
Is my child's photo used to train AI?
No. In the policy's words: "We do not use customer data, including uploaded photos and generated avatars, to train AI models."
The policy says we use information to understand how the service performs and to improve it, and adds: "This does not include training AI models on customer data." Information that has been anonymized may be kept for analysis and service improvement, and the policy says the no-training commitment still applies to it.
Who can see my child's information?
The policy lists the situations in which we share information. They include:
- Service providers that help us run Magic Story, including hosting, storage, AI processing, printing and shipping. "Information is provided as needed for the relevant service."
- At your direction, for example when you publish a review or use a sharing feature. Anything you share publicly may be viewed or copied by others.
- Legal and safety needs, where required by law or where we reasonably believe it is necessary to protect rights or investigate fraud or abuse.
The full list is in when we share information.
How is it protected?
The policy says: "We use reasonable safeguards designed to protect personal information. No online service, transmission method, or storage system can guarantee absolute security." Magic Story and its service providers may process information in the United States and other countries.
How do I delete my child's avatar or my account?
- To remove a saved character, open , tap the character and choose Remove, then confirm. See how to manage your saved characters for the exceptions.
- To request account or content deletion, email support@magicstory.com, as the policy directs. Please don't send passwords or full payment card details.
The policy explains what happens next:
- When you close your account, its content "becomes immediately inaccessible and should be purged from our systems in full within 90 days."
- "Content removed individually may remain on active servers for up to 30 days, and copies may be held in backups afterward."
- These periods may be extended if required for legal purposes, such as litigation holds, law enforcement requests, or tax or financial audits.
We keep account information, generated avatars, stories and order records for the purposes the policy describes, including providing your library, fulfilling orders, and meeting legal and accounting obligations. See retention and deletion for the full text.
Can I make a book for a child who is not mine?
Yes, with permission. Accounts and purchases are intended for adults 18 or older, and the policy says: "You must be the child's parent or guardian, or have their permission, before submitting the child's information or likeness."
If you can't get a photo, a gift subscription lets the family create their child's character themselves. Gift subscriptions are available for delivery in the United States only. See buying a book for someone else for the steps.
We do not knowingly collect personal information directly from children under 13. If you believe a child has submitted information without appropriate permission, contact us so we can investigate and take appropriate steps to remove it. Parents and guardians can also contact us about information they have provided for a child.
What photo should I upload?
One clear photo of your child, with no one else in the frame. The policy asks you to provide only the information needed for the service, and not to upload government identity documents, financial credentials, medical records, or content you don't have permission to use. For what makes a good photo, see which photo to use.
Questions parents ask
Does removing a saved character change books I have already ordered?
No. Books you have already ordered are not affected. A removed character no longer appears in your account, cannot be chosen for new books, and cannot be restored.
Why can I not remove a hero from my account?
A hero or companion used by an active Magic Story+ subscription, or one on hold because of a payment issue, cannot be removed. For a hero, switch the subscription to another hero first, then try again. If removal is still blocked, email support@magicstory.com.
Does canceling my subscription delete my account?
No. Our privacy policy says canceling a paid subscription is separate from deleting your account or personal information. Email support@magicstory.com to request deletion.
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