Madison Marathon Profile: Douglas Dulli
Douglas Dulli didn't start running until he was nearly 40 years old - but the first day he laced up his sneakers, it evoked such a passion for the sport that his feet began making up for lost time. Now 62, he's preparing for his 100th marathon: the 2014 Madison Marathon, raced on familiar, oft-tread streets.
Madison, WI runner and neurologist Douglas Dulli (62) did not start running until just before his 40th birthday. He ran the very first Madison Marathon in 1994 and this year, the November 9 Madison Marathon will mark his 100th marathon event.
Focal Flame Photography, official race photographers for the 2014 Madison Marathon, asked him about why he runs.
Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons or Half Marathons have you run?
Douglas: Eight.
FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run?
Douglas: I've run 94 marathons and have signed up for six more this year, the last – number 100 - being the Madison Marathon on November 9. I’ve done approximately 35 half-marathons.
Douglas Dulli competes not just in marathons, his favorite type of endurance event, but also triathlons. Here he shows a tough countenance during the 2013 Devil's Challenge Triathlon. © 2013 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer
FFP: Do you participate in other similar events?
Douglas: I love the longer distance triathlons (half and full IronMan) because they are so much fun and much in the spirit of marathoning. I run many shorter races, both to keep up my tempo speed and to participate in these wonderful community events. Lake Monona and Shamrock Shuffle are two of my favorites, as are the Berbee Derby, the sprint triathlons of the Wisconsin Tri Series, the High Cliff and Door County half-IronMans.
FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you would like to mention?
Douglas: I've run the Boston Marathon 10 times, beginning in 1994 when there were only 8,700 competitors. My personal record in the marathon is 3:06:27, set in 1995 at Lakefront Marathon, at age 44.
My race highlights include:
- IronMan Wisconsin: 5 times (2003, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2011)
- 50-mile ultra marathon: 2 times
- Half-IronMan triathlon: about 12 times
- Community 5/10/15/20K running races and sprint triathlon: too many to count
- Birkebeiner XC ski race: 2 times
- 100-mile bicycle races (e.g., Dairyland Dare, Oconomowoc 100, Race the Lake): about 10
Douglas Dulli’s Personal Story
FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Douglas: Endurance races all have a sense of adventure in the challenge of merely getting to the finish line. With the marathon, "hitting the wall" at mile 17 or so may literally take one out of the race. With experience, that adventure becomes more rather than less exciting to me...I love every aspect of the race, from the preparation the night before to crossing mile 26 and seeing the big "FINISH" in the distance. Even when I don't do as well, I have the satisfaction of putting on that finisher's medal, and the reward of 26 miles worth of endorphin. There's nothing like it!
FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? What makes it special?
Douglas: I am from Madison and am first and foremost a marathon runner. It fits! The Madison Marathon is neither easy nor especially predictable. But it's my home and since most of my running "career" has been on its streets, I feel a special bond to it.
FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Douglas: I've coached first-time marathoners for the fundraiser "Train to End Stroke" and the Disney Marathon. I've trained with Movin' Shoes and HeadHunters, a local triathlon club. I also ran with my son to pace him for his first marathon.
FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Douglas: It's well supported, it's a lot of fun, but it "ain't easy"!
FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share
Douglas: All endurance athletes have a favorite or "specialty" race. Mine is the marathon. But we all, as athletes, have found such rewards associated with running, biking, swimming, or skiing distance that I am excited to see this culture as a whole develop. I'm particularly glad to see the proliferation of races like the Madison Half-Marathon, which makes endurance running more attainable for beginners or runners with their own challenges. Above all these benefits, I think it's most inspiring to be able to think of oneself as an athlete, a concept which is so foreign to many of us who didn't excel in high school team sports. The many other cardiac and health benefits are so important but secondary to that psychological one.
This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in the Madison Half Marathon or Madison Marathon on November 9, 2014. For more information and to register, visit Madison Marathon.
- Interview by Deb Proctor
Taking Care of Business: Dancing Lotus Fitness Studio
When Dancing Lotus Fitness Studio owner Erica Neis decided the time was right to create updated commercial photographs for her business, she knew that the end product had to capture the dynamic energy that pulsated through Zumba® sessions at the studio. So she contacted Focal Flame Photography. "I knew Focal Flame could capture amazing moments in motion," she said.
Dancing Lotus Fitness Studio, as you can probably tell by the name, is not your run-of-the-mill fitness center or gym. Located in Lake Mills, Wisconsin, Dancing Lotus is dedicated to the philosophy held by owner Erica Neis that fitness should be nurtured through music and movement. Recently, Erica also established Journey of Life Wellness Studio and plans to offer a range of services and workshops on different wellness modalities. The goal? “Dancing Lotus Fitness and Journey of Life will work hand-in-hand to make Lake Mills and the surrounding area the healthiest, happiest place to be,” said Erica.
Focal Flame Photography recently photographed Erica and her staff in action during a dynamic class session. We asked Erica about Dancing Lotus and why she chose Focal Flame Photography to create a library of commercial photographs.
Dancing Lotus Fitness Zumba sessions are full of vitality. The studio is housed in a former church; stained glass and high ceilings add to the ambiance while instructor Erica Neis (center) leads a high-energy class. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer
Focal Flame Photography: Tell us a little about Dancing Lotus Fitness studio. What are Zumba® classes like? Who takes them? What can a first-timer expect?
Erica Neis: You do NOT need to have dance or fitness experience to enjoy Zumba classes. It is our job, as instructors, to show you the moves and to make it easier for you. All you need to do is follow along and HAVE FUN!
Our participants, who range from age 13 to seniors, come from all walks of life, and everyone is welcome! Many are just beginning their fitness journey, and many others are very fit and active already.
Classes, which do not require advanced registration, are typically 45 minutes long. The first class is only $5, then you have the option of dropping in or purchasing a variety of punch cards and passes that offer significant savings.
Classes open and close with a moment of centering. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer
Focal Flame: What have been the most interesting trends you’ve seen within your industry?
Erica: In addition to the obvious physical benefits, people seem to be looking for fitness options that serve them emotionally and spiritually. With busy lives and sometimes limited financial resources, people today need to get the most out of their "me time" and look for workouts that are just as much "therapy" as they are fitness.
Focal Flame: Are there any ways that your company tries to give back to the local community?
Erica: We offer a free class Zumba class nearly every month, and often other classes as well! Check out our schedule and monthly calendar at dancinglotusfit.com. We also make donations to various local groups and events throughout the year.
Focal Flame: What made you decide to commission this series of photographic images?
Erica: Our business and promotional photos were almost two years old and way out of date. Our Dancing Lotus Fitness (DLF) family had changed and grown, and we needed a fresh marketing image. We wanted to capture the joyful, welcoming, "family" feel that makes Dancing Lotus Fitness what it is today.
Focal Flame: Why did you choose Focal Flame to produce them? What thoughts do you have about the experience?
Erica: I met Clint when the idea of a photography business was just a glimmer in his eye. I have watched his business grow and have seen his amazing work with fitness and athletic photography. I knew he could capture amazing moments in motion. We enjoyed every minute of having Clint at the studio. The photographs are beyond fabulous!
For more information on Dancing Lotus Fitness Studio look for Dancing Lotus Fitness on Facebook, email erica@dancinglotusfit.com, or call 920-342-4381.
Need to freshen your marketing image? Want to capture the dynamism of your business in action? Contact Focal Flame Photography today. Our team of photographers would love to help you.
- Interview by Deborah Proctor
Madison Marathon Profile: Becky Pelnar
Madison runner Becky Pelnar fell in love with her sport and never looked back. Pelnar overcame injury to complete nine half-marathons and one marathon - and has her sights set on a personal record. "I never used to be a runner, but all it takes is pushing yourself a little further and further each time," she said. "You just need to remember to relax, enjoy the scenery as you go, and smile."
Madison, Wisconsin runner Becky Pelnar (28) has overcome injury to run - and has her sights set on improving her marathon time. Pelnar has completed six Half Madison Marathons and is training for her first Full Madison Marathon on November 9.
Focal Flame Photography, the official race photography firm for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked her about why she runs.
With a smile elicited by the sheer joy of running, Becky Pelnar pursues the sport she has come to love. Taken during the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Katie Richard
Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many total marathons or half marathons have you run?
Becky Pelnar: One full marathon and nine half marathons.
FFP: Have you participated in other events aside from the Madison Marathon?
Becky: I have run the Haunted Hustle, Tough Mudder, Warrior Dash, Ugly Sweater 5K, and Electric Run 5K.
FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you would like to mention?
Becky: I trained for the Madison Marathon in May 2012, but it was cancelled due to the heat so I ran the half instead. During my training I developed Achilles problems, but I still signed up for the Haunted Hustle Marathon that October. Due to my injury I did not train at all but still ran the entire Haunted Hustle and managed to finish under 5 hours (not great, but not terrible for my first full marathon, especially with a lack of training). I'm running the Madison Marathon this November to try to get a better time!
FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Becky: All it takes is one race to get someone hooked. The adrenaline, the excitement and camaraderie from fellow racers, and the support from spectators can be all the motivation someone needs to participate in a race. For me, I love getting to run through my hometown here in Madison, seeing familiar faces and places along the way. I get to support my city while feeling an amazing sense of accomplishment and pride at the same time.
FFP: With so many races to choose from, what makes the Madison Marathon special?
Becky: I love starting and ending at the Capitol! I think overall the course showcases some of the best features of Madison — the Arboretum, Governor's Mansion, Monroe Street, etc.
FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Becky: Get ready to enjoy a beautiful course, motivating spectators, and of course some delicious beer at the end (the real motivation, after all!)
FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you think we should know
Becky: I always tell people, if I can run a race, ANYONE can. I never used to be a runner, but all it takes is pushing yourself a little further and further each time. You just need to remember to relax, enjoy the scenery as you go, and smile.
This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in the Madison Half Marathon or Madison Marathon on November 9, 2014. For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.
- Interview by Deb Proctor
5 Things You Should Know: Tri 4 Schools Fall Mud Run
The Tri 4 Schools Mud Run is terrific fun for the whole family, with youth obstacle race courses ranging from 1/3 mile to a 5K - all with a mud pit at the end. We caught up with Tri 4 Schools founder Katie Hensel, who shared five tips for mud run success.
Calling all kids - and their parents! The Tri 4 Schools Fall Mud Run is fast-approaching and will be held on Saturday, September 27 starting at 8 am in Festival Park, Verona, WI. With three different distances for various ages and ultra-fun obstacles plus (of course!) an awesome mud pit, there's something for everyone. And your race fees directly support fitness and healthy lifestyle programs in schools.
Thinking about doing the Tri 4 Schools Fall Mud Run? We caught up with Tri 4 Schools founder Katie Hensel, who shared these five tips:
Hundreds of kids - and their families - participate in the Tri 4 Schools Mud Run. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Jacob Ennis
1. Dress for success. A dirty mud runner is a happy mud runner! Remember, dirt is a must-have accessory. Bring old shoes and clothes that can be adorned with soil and sweat, and also bring along a set of spare clothes and shoes for after the race. Pro tip: Mud pits can swallow shoes whole depending on your technique. Some find it helpful to secure footwear with duct tape.
Is there anything better than splashing in the mud?! © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Katie Richard
2. Towels and plastic bags are super-useful. A trash bag is not only handy for containing messy clothes; in a pinch, it doubles as a good seat on damp ground. You'll want a towel to dry off with, and a second towel can make a decent seat as well, either on its own layered on top of a plastic bag. Yes, changing tents are available courtesy of Tri 4 Schools. (They've thought of everything!)
Bring a friend and tackle the course together! © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Katie Richard
3. The family that runs together has fun together. NEW for this race: Parents or other adult friends and family members can register to run with your kids for any of the three distances! Choose from approximately 1/3 mi (recommended for age 6 and under), 1.5 mi (ages 7 to 11), or a 5K (3.1 mi, ages 12 and up). There's nothing quite like tackling a giant inflatable obstacle as a family, seeing whether Dad can beat the kids at a potato sack hop, or grabbing hands and diving into the mud pit together. Last one home is a rotten egg!
4. Do good while having fun. The unique nonprofit business model of Tri 4 Schools means that all of your kids' race entry fees will go back to your child's school to fund health and fitness resources, from equipment for physical education classes to healthy nutrition education programs. You can make a difference!
5. Scholarships are available. Any child that qualifies for free/reduced lunch at their school can participate in the Tri 4 Schools Mud Run for FREE. E-mail info@tri4schools.org for more information.
So what are you waiting for? Join in the awesome power of mud and more. And don't forget, your free FocalShare™ digital race photos will be available for download after the mud run, sponsored by Tri 4 Schools, Elements Massage (check out their new location in Fitchburg!), and Functional Integrated Training. Please send your thanks to these organizations for providing FocalShare photos! Our photographers can't wait to see your smiles on the course.
Taking Care of Business: J.H. Findorff & Son, Inc.
J.H. Findorff & Son, Inc. has designed and built some of the most recognizable structures in Madison. Focal Flame Photography recently created professional headshot portraits of several Findorff executives, leading to fascinating insights about the past, present, and future of the city. Read more about Findorff's role in shaping Madison's skyline.
Nearly 125 years ago, J.H. Findorff started a construction company. His first project was carpentry work at the UW-Madison Armory and Gymnasium, known today as the “Red Gym.” Over the years, the company - selected as the 2013 Builder of the Year by The Daily Reporter (among many other accolades) - has designed and built some of the most recognizable structures in Madison. Focal Flame Photography recently had the opportunity to create business portraits of Findorff executives. We asked Findorff spokesperson Nancy Mayek about the firm's role in shaping Madison's skyline.
Rich Lynch, Chairman, has served on the Board of Directors of many civic organizations including the United Way of Dane County and the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce. During his collegiate days as a swimmer he competed against Mark Spitz, who would become a 9-time Olympic champion.
Focal Flame Photography: Tell us a bit about your company.
Findorff: From [our founder's] humble beginnings as a carpenter, through the Great Depression, World War II, and changing attitudes and architectural styles, J.H. Findorff & Son, Inc. has established itself as an industry leader by adopting emerging building technologies and staying in front of innovative construction techniques. Today, the company employs an average of 700 people between its Madison and Milwaukee offices.
Findorff’s leadership has an average of 26 years of industry experience and serve as great mentors and leaders. In the last 10 years alone, Findorff has earned over 100 awards recognizing our commitment to quality construction and civic initiatives.
Tim Stadelman, CFO, has been a proud Green Bay Packers shareholder since 1997. He has served on the Board of Directors of the American Red Cross - Badger Chapter, among other nonprofits.
FFP: What is your company known for within your industry?
Findorff: Character. Community. Craftsmanship. These are the basis of our businesses, as well as innovative building techniques, uncompromising professional ethics, and commitment to client service.
FFP: J.H. Findorff has designed and built some of the most iconic buildings in the Madison area. Which ones might readers recognize?
Findorff: Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, Overture Center for the Arts, UW Hospital, Chazen Art Museum, Wisconsin Institute of Discovery, CUNA Mutual, and our own Findorff Corporate Headquarters.
FFP: Did any of these buildings present special challenges?
Findorff: Monona Terrace posed the unique challenge of building over the water which necessitated footings constructed in the bottom of the lake. Another major challenge was building the Camp Randall deck between football seasons; at times, every field employee was on that job (except for two).
FFP: What have been the most interesting trends you’ve seen within your industry?
Findorff: We are most excited about sustainable and green initiatives.
FFP: Are there any ways that your company tries to “give back” to the local community?
Findorff: In 1901, a fire destroyed the Findorff building, tools, full freight cars and everything stored within. The community encouraged J.H Findorff to rebuild. Ever since, the organization has maintained a focus on giving back to the community. Currently, we participate in and sponsor many community fundraisers, encourage our employees to volunteer, and provide financial gifts to local organizations and causes.
FFP: Why did you choose Focal Flame to create your executive portraits?
Findorff: We needed Executive head shots and Focal Flame offered great value. The overall experience was great. [Focal Flame founder and lead photographer] Clint Thayer toured the office prior to the photo sessions, determined the best location for the photos, and was very flexible, even rescheduling due to inclement winter weather.
We salute Findorff as the company prepares to celebrate 125 years dedicated to building Madison's future.
Considering fresh imagery, headshot portraits, or video production for your business? Contact us today. We'd be happy to discuss your needs.
- interview by Deborah Proctor
Care2Tri: Inclusion and Acceptance of Differently Abled Athletes
Care2Tri is a nonprofit dedicated to making it possible for differently-abled people to experience the challenge, the thrill, and the joy of participating in triathlons and similar events by helping them compete. We caught up with Ryan Flynn, one of the founders and leaders of the Care2Tri Chicago chapter, after the Pleasant Prairie Triathlon and asked him about his organization. Read what he had to say about his personal experiences with Care2Tri.
If you participated in the 2014 Pleasant Prairie Triathlon, you may have noticed some special teams of athletes from the nonprofit organization Care2Tri taking on the challenge of the race. Founded in 2009, Care2Tri is dedicated to making it possible for differently-abled people to experience the challenge, the thrill, and the joy of participating in triathlons and similar events by helping them compete. The mission of the organization is to “create a sense of equality and help steer the views of mainstream society to one of acceptance and inclusion,” one race at a time.
We caught up with Ryan Flynn, one of the founders and leaders of the Care2Tri Chicago chapter, after the Pleasant Prairie Triathlon and asked him about his organization.
Focal Flame Photography: What was your motivation in starting a Care2Tri chapter?
Flynn: I have been racing in triathlons for 5 years and absolutely love the sport and competition, yet I’ve always wanted to do something more to share the experience with other people. I saw coverage of the Florida Rev 3 triathlon where Care2Tri was highlighted. I was very moved and spoke with founder Greg Simony about starting a chapter, which along with Carrie Wisniewski we did in September 2013.
A Care2Tri team prepares to head out for the swim leg of the Pleasant Prairie Triathlon.
© 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer
FFP: Adaptive vans, equipment, and traveling to races is expensive. How is Care2 Tri supported?
Flynn: We are fortunate to have some corporate sponsors in the form of product, but we rely solely on local businesses, friends, family, and fellow triathletes for funding. We held fundraisers throughout the winter, used the funds to purchase equipment and insurance, and had our first race in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin in the spring of 2014. That was really a big moment for the Chicago Chapter! And you can see it in the photos Focal Flame took!
The swim is a team effort, with Care2Tri members taking turns pulling an inflatable vessel carrying another member.
© 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Austin Cope
FFP: How many races have you run and how many people with disabilities have you served so far?
Flynn: I have completed 2 races with Care2Tri, pulling 3 athletes with disabilities; we have at least 3 more on the schedule for 2014. We plan to participate in the same 5 races next year and add more. Currently, we are trying to organize racing 50 triathlons in all 50 states in 50 consecutive days, pulling 3 disabled participants in each state.
FFP: How has starting this chapter of Care2 Tri affected you personally and/or professionally?
Flynn: It certainly has been a challenge, but the joy and pride our participants experience during the races makes all the hard work worth it! As long as I am able, I will continue to make these opportunities available.
A bike trailer converts to a running cart, helping the Care2Tri team achieve their goal. The Chicago chapter raised funds for the Wike cart for use in training and competition.
© 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit; Jacob Ennis
FFP: What impact has your organization had on the community?
Flynn: In the short time that we have been participating in races, we have had a lot of triathletes and spectators come to us and want to get involved and race with us. Just through modeling the right approach, others want to get on board.
FFP: Does your organization partner with support groups to either connect with people with disabilities, raise funds, or provide support?
Flynn: We partner with the Anixter Center, United Cerebral Palsy, Disabled Veterans, Wounded Warriors, and the YMCA, encouraging them to promote our organization and allow us to speak at health and fitness engagements. We have worked with people with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, autism, Rett syndrome, brain injuries, Down syndrome, and people who are blind, quadriplegic, or amputees. If someone has the desire, we will find a way for them to participate in any race.
FFP: If someone wishes to be a part of Chicago Care2Tri chapter, whom should they contact?
Flynn: We welcome race guides and volunteers for race day, as well as help with fundraising, marketing, and race organization. Contact: RFlynnCare2Tri@gmail.com
Focal Flame Photography is honored to capture moments such as the amazing teamwork of Care2Tri members during our service as the official event photographers for the Pleasant Prairie Triathlon. Thanks and congratulations to the entire triathlete community for your efforts in making this sport accessible to differently abled athletes.
A jubilant celebration at the finish line for a Care2Tri competitor.
© 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer
- by Deborah Proctor
Behind the Lens: Mid-Year Recap
It's been an amazing six months for Madison, WI-based Focal Flame Photography. Let's recap a brief bit of what's been done - because after half a year at this pace, the future looks as bright as a flame.
by Clint Thayer
Some of the Focal Flame Photography team: a rowdy crew, to be sure. L to R: Josh Zytkiewicz, Clint Thayer, Austin Cope, Katie Richard.
The middle of the summer often brings a slightly slower period for endurance sports event photography, which makes up one of the most visible components of our business (but by no means the only component). I thought it might be time to look back on the last six months and mention what the Focal Flame crew has been able to accomplish as a team - because, truly, just as sports is a team effort, so is photography. We have an phenomenal crew of photographers, editors, writers, marketing, and sales staff. When I look back at what we've been able to do in half a year, it's pretty remarkable - and worth recapping in case you missed it.
Version 2 of the Focalflamestore.com Online Store
Ooh....shiny new Focal Flame Photography online store.
One of the most frequent comments we heard in the past is that our online store (for prints & digital image sales) was not mobile-friendly, and was a bit tough to navigate. To address these issues, we rolled out Version 2 of www.focalflamestore.com in March. This wasn't a switch to be taken lightly, given 2 million image views in 2013 - we had to make sure that the update happened seamlessly and without issue across all of the existing event galleries. We're so pleased see the benefits of the switch, some of which included:
- Responsive design for mobile and tablet browsers
- Improved navigation and communication tailored to specific folders
- Improved visual buttons to make it easy to download FocalShare digitals (for events that include this service. If free FocalShare digitals aren't included at your favorite event, please be sure to let us know - we'd be happy to discuss this service with event organizers.)
Updated Focalflame.com Website
Aaahh...shiny new Focal Flame web site.
Relaunching one web site isn't enough - how about two? You're reading this blog on our primary site, focalflame.com - and it also needed some love. On the heels of revamping the online Focal Flame store, we also completely overhauled our main website. Our goal was to make it a better, more responsive fit for our our love of storytelling and for the creative process and creative product. The new site involves a lot of updates "under the hood" that make it easier to share our passion for both image creation and word-based storytelling with much greater clarity and ease. Our site is now 100% responsive, allowing viewers a better experience on mobile and tablet devices. We've also taken this opportunity to more clearly share our offerings for Event, Headshot / Portrait, Video Production, and Commercial Photography services. The site also allows easier ways to showcase some of our best, most recent image creation work!
New Partners
A high-energy commercial photography session at Dancing Lotus Fitness. SO much fun.
We are extremely proud of our relationships and partners with businesses and nonprofits. One of the greatest perks of providing commercial photography, headshot, and video production services for businesses and nonprofits in the Madison, WI area (and well beyond!) is the opportunity to get to know so many different amazing professionals in a wide variety of industries. We make sure to survey each client after their project is finished, and honestly, their positive feedback has made us blush on many occasions.
We were honored to provide headshot photography services to J. H. Findorff & Son Inc., the construction firm behind such iconic Madison region buildings as Monona Terrace Convention Center, the Madison Central Library, Epic Farm Campus, and Epic Prairie Campus.
We believe in building a strong community, and our partners are literally the builders and caretakers of that community. We are so honored to be serving many new partners including Madison Festivals Inc, SportCrafters, UW Department of Emergency Medicine, Bikes Bikes Bikes, The Cookie Project, Environmental Chemistry Consulting Services, Inc. (ECCS Mobile Labs), J. H. Findorff and Son Inc. construction services, UW-Madison Continuing Studies, Tri4Schools, Lincoln Financial Group, Dancing Lotus Fitness, Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin, Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc....ok, you get the picture.
Here's the thing: these are amazing organizations. You may know some of them pretty well, while others you might have never heard about before. We'll be sharing some stories from several of our partners soon - stay tuned for more!
Lights, backdrops, and cameras come to play together at the Focal Flame Photography studio.
Studio Space
It happened. Although we do a LOT of work in the field, we're also portrait, video, and product photography junkies...and those are indoor activities. There came a time when we just needed to give ourselves room to grow in terms of square footage, and this spring we took that opportunity to set down some studio roots.
The Focal Flame Photography studio is now happily located just off Willy Street in Madison, WI! We have a 20' x 20' shooting bay available for creative projects, plus a similarly sized meeting area for use of our headshot/portrait and video clients as well as our growing list of commercial and product photography clients. The studio was also the site of our first-ever Girls' Night Out at the Studio event in the spring. The space will also give us a chance to offer some new and exciting services in the months to come. It's also got an amazing creative energy: in a former life, the building was a tobacco barn, which is the reason for the high ceilings and aged timber. It's a beautiful, quietly intense, meditative place for our photographers and videographers to work wonders.
We feel a need....a need for speed.
A Workflow That's Blazingly Fast
We spent much of the winter looking over our workflow for our event partners with one goal in mind. Make. It. Faster. Athletes have a need to speed, and similarly, WE wanted to be faster - because, let's face it: life is short, but time drags on forever when you're waiting around for your photos.
And talk about speed - holy smokes! We were able to provide athletes at larger events such as the Madison Marathon spring races with photos less then 12 hours after the final racer crossed the finish line. That same commitment to speed is pushing photo release time for some smaller events to less than 6 hours! And as racers at events we serve know - our commitment to speed does not compromise our continued commitment to quality and customer service.
We can't help but share the love.
Spreading the Love of Photography Through Lessons and Classes
You know how you fall in love with something and can't help but tell the world about it? That's the way we feel about photography. And we just couldn't hold back anymore - so we established the Focal Flame Photography educational program. Now you can take photography lessons with us, and soon we'll be announcing classes as well. So whether you're brand-new to photography or are experienced but want to brush up on a specialized technique, contact us. We'd love to help you grow.
What our employees are proud of...
"I think we've gotten very good at our process. It's almost second nature to us now." - Josh
(Editor's note: Josh also deserves a shout-out for accomplishing two semesters at Madison College with a 4.0 GPA!)
"The fact that we've had, and importantly still seek, continued improvement. Better images, delivered faster, from more events, and more of them. And still have this much fun doing it." - Austin
"I'm proud of helping the team capture people's joy in the accomplishment of goals!" - Kitty
"How much we've become a team together this year. Spending more time around FFP, I can see us really creating a team." - Katie
At the Heart of Everything: It's Still All About the Story
On any given day, stories are being created that will stop you in your tracks. We believe these stories need to be told.
We started Focal Flame with a core goal of storytelling. That passion is still at our core, and it has come to life in several written projects that allowed our fans a glimpse at some of the coolest people in the world. If you didn't see our series of Madison Marathon athlete profiles, hear about a heartwarming duo of an athlete living with Parkinson's Disease and his best friend, see this touching glimpse into a nine-year-old's take-home lessons from Girls on The Run, or watch the video about one family's decision to stand up for radical love by fighting for a little boy's special medical needs, settle in for some excellent reading and viewing.
The Future is as Bright as a Flame
The flame in our logo isn't a gimmick. It's a symbol of life's determination and passion. And it is at the heart of everything we do, see, share, tell, and create.
While we are proud of what we have accomplished in the first half of 2014 - we can't wait to uncover some of the things we are currently building. Watch this space for more updates - and in the meantime, we look forward to seeing you from behind our lenses, in the classroom, or just hearing your thoughts on social media or in the community! Thanks, as always, for your support. As a locally-owned business, it means everything.
And thank you for joining us on our mission to put good things into the world, one image and word at a time.
Behind the Lens: Rhythm and Booms
A commercial photography assignment for the Madison, WI Rhythm and Booms created unique opportunities and challenges. Read more in this behind-the-scenes take.
"Chance favors the prepared mind." - Louis Pasteur
What do you do when your commercial photography assignment is to cover an event that lasts a mere 28 minutes, but that takes place over several square miles and took over a year to plan?
And that event happens...in the dark?
You prepare. You research, plan, strategize, and gather a team. This was the process required to cover the 2014 Rhythm and Booms Fireworks Celebration in Madison, WI.
Rhythm and Booms transformed the Madison, WI skyline - offering an amazing opportunity for fireworks photography. (c) 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer
Rhythm and Booms, founded in 1993, experienced a rebirth in 2014 by moving from its previous location in Warner Park on the city's north side to the heart of downtown. Though the change in locale was not without controversy, it was deemed necessary by the city to accommodate growth. Taking advantage of the natural landscape of Madison's isthmus, v2.0 of Rhythm and Booms was designed as theatre-in-the-round: fireworks shot from a barge on Lake Monona, reflecting off the water, with spectators gathered on shorelines.
Focal Flame Photography was hired by the Rhythm and Booms organizers Madison Festivals Inc. to document the afternoon's festival and the fireworks display. Creating a media library of images that depicted the festival and fireworks with both sense of place and sense of purpose was essential. "It started weeks in advance, scouting locations, looking at angles, determining the story and assessing the requirements," said Focal Flame Photography founder Clint Thayer.
Pyrotechnical effects of every hue illuminated the Madison, WI sky and reflected off Lake Monona. (c) 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer
"For example, we knew we had to tell the story of Rhythm and Booms being relocated to the shore of Lake Monona, so key photographs needed to depict crowds, the Wisconsin Capitol building, and - obviously - spectacular fireworks," said Thayer. "And while it only takes a few seconds to describe those images, it takes significant time to articulate that assignment to other photographers and communicate the clients' needs, so that as a team we could be successful in our image-making."
Thayer took on the role of both art director and photographer. "We elected to position four photographers in key locations to help tell a unique visual story of Rhythm and Booms," said Thayer. Those photographers - Thayer himself, Focal Flame associate photographers Katie Richard and Josh Zytkiewicz, and freelance photographer Matt Apps - were assigned to four different vantage points around Lake Monona. Thayer had a specific shot list for each position. "I’m very impressed and proud to work with our team...they executed beautifully," said Thayer.
Mirrored by Lake Monona and decorated with the city skyline, the fireworks danced and glowed in the night skyscape. (c) 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Katie Richard
In describing the role of art director, Thayer said, "A common technique for photographers is to pick up pencil and paper, then sketch out and pre-visualize the kinds of shots that they’d like to get," said Thayer. "You have to prepare the mind so that when it’s go time, there’s no questions. There’s no drama. You’re just executing the process that you’ve already visualized." He then talked with each photographer about details.
The focus on preparedness was critical for Zytkiewicz. Despite scouting out his location beforehand, he realized as soon as the fireworks began that he needed to make adjustments. "I had everything set up at my first location, hoping to get the Capitol with the fireworks right behind it," said Zytkiewicz. But when the pyrotechnics started, his heart sank - the angle wasn't right.
The Wisconsin State Capitol building becomes ornamented with light during Rhythm and Booms. (c) 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Josh Zytkiewicz
When the situation isn't conducive, change the situation. "I put my camera under the seat of the moped, camera bag on my back, and had the tripod resting between my feet and up on my shoulder, still extended." Parking his moped and running up Wisconsin Avenue, he found a suitable alternative location and immediately set up again. The result was an intimate view of the Capitol, ablaze with light.
Crowds filled the venue throughout the Rhythm and Booms festival in the afternoon. Thousands of people gathered to enjoy a summer Saturday with family and friends. (c) 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer
Officers from the Madison Police Department collaborated with organizers to develop traffic entry and exit plans, and make sure that everyone was safe during the event. (c) 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer
Positioned near the fireworks barge, Matt Apps was pleased at being able to readily find a good position. "I scoped out the barge and made sure it was visible at my vantage point, framing it between a few trees with also a view of the capitol....Figuring most of the fireworks would go straight up, my 16-35mm lens allowed me to frame the capitol and a good deal of area for the fireworks." But he soon found himself doing a balancing act - with hues. "The lights on John Nolen were pretty bright, and created a while balance issue as they were very yellow," said Apps. He was able to compensate, though, and made a photo that depicted both the forceful beauty of the fireworks and the sense of peacefulness evoked by a gathered community.
Thayer anticipated the possibility of challenges. "Trees, light posts, people, boats - they can all obstruct the image you're trying to make," said Thayer. "It takes thinking on your feet, adjusting, and adapting to your circumstances. And not settling for mediocre."
Because the Focal Flame team had already completed an assignment for an early-morning triathlon event that same day, they were also working a late night after a 4 AM wake-up call. Dedication in the face of fatigue adds its own challenge. "You have to keep pushing yourself as a photographer and continuing to ask yourself, 'Could this be better? If I move a foot to the left or right, will that be a better shot?'" said Thayer. "It goes back to knowing your equipment, knowing your conditions, understanding light so that you’re not having to think about those things consciously anymore. You're only thinking about the final composition of the shot."
Despite the heat and crowds, Thayer found the afternoon festival easy to access. "I found it extremely easy to get to the heart of the festival, and found parking close by," he said. "The crowds were easy to work with, and people were smiling. They were clearly having an enjoyable time at the festival. I was impressed with how easygoing the Madison police officers were to the event goers, and to me as a media team member. They didn’t make a fuss; they were very accommodating."
Composition, deep understanding of light, technique - it all comes together when photographing fireworks. The great irony is that photography is painting with light, and yet fireworks photography spans the extremes of far too little light (due to nighttime) and far too much (due to explosions) - combined with split-second timing.
The first explosion of the show brought an elegant brilliance to the Madison skyline. (c) 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer
But all of the photographers were able to tap into knowledge built upon years of action photography to capture the timing of the fireworks. They also brought practical know-how from nighttime events like It's Glow Time 5K and techniques such as light painting.
The band Big Head Todd and the Monsters headlined the free show at the Rhythm and Booms concert stage. (c) 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer
In the end, the most lasting impression of Rhythm and Booms for Thayer had nothing to do with photography - and everything to do with being a Madisonian. "It’s bigger than a venue change," said Thayer. "It’s bigger than logistics about vendors and food and pricing of food and beverages and all that. It’s about people like Madison Festivals Inc., and their event production partner Race Day Events LLC, and the pyrotechnic experts at J&M Displays, and nearly 2,000 volunteers all working extremely hard to provide a city an opportunity to celebrate and come together as a community."
Rows of onlookers gather at the shoreline, coming together for the Rhythm and Booms festival. (c) 2014 Photo credit: Matt Apps on behalf of Focal Flame Photography
Thayer paused to let the reflection sink in, then continued. "A community of all different races, socioeconomic strata, all different demographics. It is literally a meeting in the middle of a city that is often divided. I walked away from that night feeling like the location is central now; it serves everybody. Everyone has to come together. In that, I think one can extrapolate more meaning."
All ages, all walks of life, together as one. For as he documented the festival in the afternoon, he saw thousands of people from Madison and beyond gather in the sweet, heavy, humid summer air to laugh, linger, and celebrate both togetherness....and independence.
- by Robyn M. Perrin
Prints of fireworks photographs from the 2014 Rhythm & Booms event are available for purchase. Half of the proceeds will benefit the Madison Festivals Inc. fireworks funds to ensure that this community event will be sustained for the future. Thank you for your support!
Girls on the Run: Thoughts from a Participant
What does the Girls On The Run program mean from the perspective of a student? This is the question posed by a Focal Flame Photography co-founder to her daughter, a four-time participant. The answers took her breath away.
"I wonder," said Girls On The Run-Dane County Executive Director Sara Pickard, "if you may be able to reflect on your daughter's transformation through her GOTR experience?....I'd love your thoughts on what benefits she has received from her participation, strengths gained, beliefs formed, etc. Might that be something you would consider?"
When a writer receives an assignment that connects personal experience with at-large message, it is a gift. I cannot think of a greater gift than the ability to interview my own daughter about her experiences with the Girls On The Run program.
In truth, I hadn't imagined at first that she would participate in Girls On The Run for more than one session. The 10-week program is offered to over 700,000 elementary- and middle-school-aged girls at locations across the United States, Canada, and beyond. It is a grassroots, nonprofit program that is powered by an army of volunteer coaches.
She has completed Girls On The Run four times, and will likely continue participating until she ages out of the program.
At its heart, Girls On The Run is meant to allow young women to experience, discuss, reflect, and be empowered. Despite its name, it isn't really an athletic program; running is a means to an end, a way to strengthen oneself physically and mentally by taking on a big challenge (5000 meters is a tremendous distance for any young person to run!) - and, in the process, allow the transformative aspect of striving to work its magic.
On an evening in June, my daughter had this to say about Girls On The Run.
"I’m addicted to it," she said leaning forward earnestly, eyes bright. "I like that there’s learning and there’s running, but they’re joined together."
The learning bits refer to the Girls On The Run curriculum, a well-thought-out series of messages and activities that focus on subjects such as self-confidence, cultivating a positive body image, how to resist self-diminishing media characterizations of femininity, how to support others, and the damaging effects of bullying.
In short, good stuff.
"Self confidence is a pretty big [lesson]", she explained to her mother in a tone that made clear there were no hard feelings about the need to expand one's thoughts to a listener who is over the age of 35.
"I’ve definitely been plugged into the positive cord," she said. "See, there's a positive cord and a negative cord. You want to be plugged into the positive cord, which is filled with rainbows and unicorns. The negative cord is filled with gunk and goo and bad stuff. So you want to be plugged into the positive cord and around other people who are too. Who wants to be mopey and sad? It’s just not a good feeling."
GIrls on the Run coach Meredith Rhodes Carson, a health coach with From This Day Forward Health Coaching, uses a message to help girls complete about 224 laps around a school yard. For every lap they completed they crossed off a letter in the statement.
I mused over this for a moment, considering. What about the times in life when Really Truly Awful Incredibly Bad Things happen? What then? How do you plug into the positive cord when there's nothing...really positive going on?
She had an answer at hand and didn't miss a beat. When bad things happen to a friend, she explained, "I try to comfort them, and listen," she said. "Listening is key. You don’t just want to talk."
Word.
Tell me more about what you've learned, I said. Like that rainbows and unicorns reference. What is that?
She smiled, willing to share. "[Rainbows and unicorns] is a pretty popular phrase in our group," she explained. These are things that "make you happy, they’re pretty, they’re nice. They basically make you giggle."
So, the reasoning goes, evoke them. Bring them into your life. Make them part of your thoughts. Because when we can laugh, we can connect. We can relax. And we can relate.
Even about hard things, cruel things....like bullying, something that not long ago was just simply accepted as part of Americana childhood, represented nostalgically as a rite of passage in movies like "A Christmas Story." Now, not so much.
Why is it important to talk about bullying?, I asked.
She responded without hesitation. "If it happens to you, you don’t just try to bury it inside of you. You have to open up and tell somebody. Otherwise it gets worse and worse."
Sometimes a parent has to stop and gather their composure, because the simple wisdom of what is before you takes you by surprise. This is what it's like to raise the next generation. They astonish you with their insight on a regular basis.
Could a running-and-empowerment after-school program really make a difference? Could it help someone spread peace, become more joyful, become more empathetic, become more confident?
I don't have an answer.
What I do know is that on the vast majority of mornings, my daughter bounds into our room saying, "MOM, MOM, I'M SO EXCITED ABOUT TODAY!"
On more days than not, she listens with keen insight to those around her.
On more days than not, she shows me how to live life with integrity, strength, compassion, and joy.
On more days than not, she is my right-hand woman at the tender age of nine. She is the one who says, "Hey, Mom, tell me about your day," on a day that has been a handful and a half. She is the one who cracks a joke at just the right moment and who tells me her favorite Eleanor Roosevelt quote.
She is the one who is teaching me.
I know in my heart that every experience in her life has influenced her, and Girls On The Run is one of many influences. But I know full well - and full stop - that it is a positive and genuine influence. And I am forever grateful.
This idea is a simple one, an amazing one, and a life-changing one:
"We envision a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams." This is the vision of Girls On The Run International.
By gosh, I think it just might be possible. One girl and one household at a time.
- by Robyn M. Perrin, co-founder of Focal Flame Photography
Focal Flame Photography is honored to serve as the official event photographer for Girls On The Run Dane County, which provides free FocalShare™ digital images to all participants in the Spring and Fall 5K events.
Lake Mills Triathlete Profile: Klaas van Zanten
Diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2003, Klaas van Zanten discovered a love of triathlon and refused to be deterred by his illness. With the help of his friend Jay Handy, he competed in the Lake Mills Triathlon and encourages others with Parkinson's to "be physically active - choose an activity you like, one that challenges you."
Parkinson's Disease no match for determination
Eleven years ago, Klaas van Zanten (45) of Johnson Creek, WI was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. The illness is characterized by progressive damage to the nervous system and can severely affect movement. But van Zanten was determined to keep dreaming and doing. Although he considered himself "a novice when it comes to any sporting event," van Zanten was intrigued by triathlon. "The three disciplines attracted me," he said, and he began running recreationally. "Just a little bit of exercise," he said - moments dedicated to fitness that he pursued during busy days as a father of three young children ages 12, 10, and 7.
Klaas van Zanten (right) emerges from the water at the Lake Mills Triathlon supported by his friend Jay Handy (left). (c) 2014 Focal Flame Photography. Photo credit: Josh Zytkiewicz
Given that Klaas' condition causes challenges including momentary lack of control of his body, he wasn't sure whether he could persevere during competition. "My challenge is the swim," he said soberly.
But he was encouraged by his friend Jay Handy (51) of Madison, WI, who has competed in IronMan races while managing his own condition of diabetes. After meeting in the Madison Dutch Club (Handy's wife is Dutch, as is Klaas), he two men became buddies and began training together. "We have worked on a system where I hold his head up while he lays on his back and I side stroke along," said Handy. "It has been a rather powerful and unfolding process between the two of us. He can propel himself for about 30 yards, then poops out, I assist for 10 yards, then he goes again."
Klaas (left) and Jay (right) cross the finish line of the Lake Mills Triathlon, hand in triumphant hand. (c) 2014 Focal Flame Photography. Photo credit: Clint Thayer
On Jun 1, 2014, Klaas and Jay emerged from the open water swim portion of the Lake Mills Triathlon with jubilant grins. Together, they had done it. Klaas continued on to the bike and run portion of the race. He finished the Lake Mills Triathlon with a total time of 1 hour, 54 minutes, and 14 seconds.
When asked what message he would want to share with others living with Parkinson's Disease, Klaas minced no words. "You need to get off your tush and start doing something, get active. Whatever it is. Move around. It’s a good thing," he said. "Choose an activity you like, one that challenges you."
And surround yourself with positive people - just like his friend Jay.
Focal Flame Photography is honored to share the story of athletes such as Klaas who have embraced a love of sports despite personal challenges. We are proud to partner with event production firms such as Race Day Events LLC - which produces the Lake Mills Triathlon and Wisconsin Tri Series - that hold safety paramount. If you are a physically challenged athlete considering participation in any race, always contact race officials prior to registration so they will know how best to support your needs.
- by Robyn M. Perrin