It’s time for apparel photoshoots! Seriously, we’ve been using folded shirts for way too long, so we finally decided it was time to use some live action shots. The only problem? We’ve never done a photoshoot before. Let the learning begin!

The first and most obvious step is to gather together all the necessary tools and equipment.

We tend to prefer white backgrounds for stick photos (it helps reduce the reflective tint), but decided to use the good old green screen for this particular occasion.

Our version of “studio lighting” is half a dozen shop lanterns placed in a blinding array in front of the model. Just take a look at Bryce’s face above and I think you’ll get a good idea of how it feels to be “in the spotlight.”

Wood shafts start out as a plank of premium grade aspen, ash, or birch.

The other day our team had a chance to spend time in our main wood manufacturing facility. The smell of glue fills the air and swaths of rainbow paint speckle the floor and walls. It’s a magical place, like Santa’s workshop, only we don’t use Elves (it’s an immigration problem).

As we wandered through the labyrinth, twisting and turning around massive power sanders, hissing steam heaters, and spinning dry racks, we felt the need to share our wonder and appreciation for the complexity of this great game and everything that goes into it.

Last year was challenging. From winning our first entrepreneurship competition to launching an initial product line and website, there was always 10 more projects than the money, people, or time to do them in. Luckily, we were able to grit and grind our way through the obstacles and make it to the new year – thanks, in no small part, to your encouragement and support!

So what comes next? We have a lot of exciting projects in the works for 2013. Here are a few of the big ones:

• Launching fully designed product lines
• Coming to a retailer near you
• Expanding our blog and site resources
• Adding supporting products like apparel and sports accessories