JVL Photography

 JVL Photography was founded on April 8th, 2005

Specialize in Wedding and Portrait photography, we also offer a broad range of photography services and related product offerings to meet our customers needs.

We are an active member of the Professional Photographers of America, the Detroit Professional Photographers Association and the National Association of Photoshop Users, as well as several online professional communities.

 

 

 

Jim Van Luven

Growing up I was fortunate to be able to travel extensively with my family.  My father always had a camera in his hand, and we have a basement full of slide trays to show for it.  It would seem only natural that I would wish to continue the tradition and capture all of life's experiences as well.

I have been active in photography since an early age, developing my own black and white film and enlarging my own prints at the age of 12.  While in school, I entered many local and state competitions, including winning the "Grand Champion" ribbon for photography in the Michigan State Fair. 

Prior to attending college, I traveled extensively and took thousands of photographs around the world.  During college, I had to take a hiatus from photography and focus my attention towards a new endeavor - aviation. 

I am a 1993 Graduate from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science.  While attending the university, I received my Commercial Pilot's license with Single and Multi-Engine Instrument Land Ratings, a Certificated Flight Instructor license with Single Engine Instrument rating and a Ground Instructor license with Advanced and Instrument ratings.

I have been flying for over 19 years, with 13 years as a flight instructor and 7 years as a charter and corporate pilot.  To date, I have accumulated over 1500 flight hours and am still an active flight instructor.  I am also a volunteer with the Civil Air Patrol.

I have been employed since 1994 as a consultant for a major computer engineering software company.

In 1996, I acquired a digital camera for use with projects at work and rekindled my joy of photography.  In 2002, I purchased my first high-end digital camera, and began more serious pursuits, combining my passions of flying, photography and computers.

From aerial and event photography to portrait and wedding photography, 2007 has been a very successful year.  I am looking for 2008 to be an exciting year with lots to offer.