Jim Churchill
M. Photog., Cr., CPP
A man inspired by fine art, music and culture, Jim Churchill strives to go beyond the tangible in his craft. Photography is something he has pursued his entire life. Jim’s photographic chronicles began in small town Maine, where he was born. Those serene beginnings serve as a reminder of his great love for the outdoors. Growing up surrounded by a beautiful coastal panorama and inspired by a plethora of scenic overtures; he refined the qualities that shine through in his artwork today.
Jim’s passion for taking pictures began in high school and continued into the service, where he served his country for six years in the United States Army. “Can Not” have never been words in his vocabulary. Jim’s strong conviction that he can accomplish what he sets his mind to has served him well. He began entering in his first print competitions in 1996. Jim’s journey to achieving the esteemed title, Master of Photography was completed in 2001 and Craftsman Degree in 2002.
Jim’s work has been displayed at Disney’s EPCOT Center and he was most recently named Photographer of the year for the 3rd consecutive time. (Professional Photographers of Western Michigan). Jim has served as Membership Chairman, Program Chairman, Vice President as well as President for PPWM (Professional Photographers of West Michigan). Jim has also served on the PP of M. (Professional Photographers of Michigan) board as the Properties Chairman 1 year, Print Chairman for 3 years and is currently on the executive board as President Elect. Jim also served on the GLIP Board (Great Lakes Institute of Photography) As the Liaison between the state assn. and the school. On the national level Jim serves on the ASP Executive Board. (American Society of Photographers)
In a very short time Jim has received many prestigious awards. He has received Eight Kodak Gallery Awards, nine Fuji Masterpiece Awards, The Burrell Award (Highest-scoring image in the Mid-East States Competition) Jim’s print titled “Mortality “scored a 100. Jim also won Nine Best of Show Awards and twelve Courts of Honor. In 2001 Jim won the award for the best Black and White image in the show at the Mid-East States Convention. He has also finished in the top 5 Photographers in the state of Michigan for ten consecutive years. Jim has been Michigan Photographer of the year and most recently won the Mid East States Photographer of the Year (2004) and (2009). Jim is the only Michigan photographer to ever win this prestigious award twice. In 2004 Jim won the E.I (Electronic Imaging) photographer of the year for the second consecutive time in Michigan. Jim is also the recipient of the ASP Regional Medallion.
Jim Has had numerous images accepted into the PPA Loan Collection, Showcase Collection and the ASP Traveling Loan collection. Jim images have also displayed at the Imaging Korea convention.
Taking a closer look at Jim’s work reveals an ominous quality that is not immediately apparent to the viewer. Often times dark and provocative, these qualities, he feels, engage his clients to study, ponder, and reflect upon his art. Memory haunting in its style, his black and white fine art portraiture is the reason he is so often sought after.
The power of teaching is a belief that bears a great deal of significance in Jim's life. Along side his busy photographic schedule; he invests a great deal of time with his fellow photographers. Always willing to help in the camera room or darkroom, many great prints have been created due to his willingness to share the skills he knows and loves. Jim believes that this fundamental contribution is the key to strengthening and enriching the photographic community at large.
It is his belief that if you give people what the want, they will come back for more. It’s this conviction that continues to spill over into his vivacious personality and carry the imprint of greatness in his work.
