Kyle Newsom has a new film that captures his love of the Blue Angels with gorgeous footage.
Kyle Newsom’s passion for aviation is deeply rooted in his early experiences at air shows. At just seven years old, Kyle was captivated by the performances of the USAF Thunderbirds and the US Navy Blue Angels, a fascination that only grew stronger as he grew older.
His journey into aviation was marked by unforgettable moments, from his first aerobatic flight to his trek through the Himalayas, all of which fueled his desire to not only fly but also to capture the beauty and power of aviation through filmmaking.
Kyle’s Latest Work: “Angels In the Sky”
Now, as an accomplished aviation filmmaker, Kyle continues to share his unique perspective with the world, blending technical expertise with a deep love for the craft. His latest project, “Angels In The Sky,” is a testament to his dedication, offering viewers a breathtaking glimpse into the precision and artistry of the Blue Angels.
We sat down with him recently to learn more about Kyle’s most recent project. You can also watch his full amazing video below.
1.) Kyle, you’ve been an Avgeek for a long time. Tell us a bit about what made you fall in love with aviation.
My passion for aviation took off when I attended my first air show, the Vectron Dayton Air Show, in 1997. I was just seven years old at the time, and that experience ignited a lifelong obsession with aviation.
From that moment on, I eagerly attended the Dayton Air Show every year, immersing myself in the exhilarating world of flight. Even back then, I would memorize the entire performances of the USAF Thunderbirds and the US Navy Blue Angels, including their sneak passes.
I devoured every air show documentary I could find, captivated by the grace and power of the aircraft and the skill of the pilots. The air show community quickly became a second family to me. I relished every opportunity to engage with fellow enthusiasts, ask questions, and soak up as much knowledge as possible.
The sheer excitement of watching those incredible displays, combined with the camaraderie and shared passion of the air show community, solidified my love for aviation. It’s a passion that continues to soar to this day.
More so than just becoming a fan, you actually devled into the airshow community yourself…
As I grew older, my curiosity about the air show industry deepened. Inspired by aerobatic champion Michael Goulian, I attended the Gathering of Mustangs and Legends in 2006, hoping to meet and talk with him.
Although I didn’t get the chance to meet him in person at this specific show, I reached out via email, and to my delight, he promptly responded to my questions after meeting his wife, Karin at the air show and telling me to email him.
Two years later, I was thrilled when Michael invited me to the Indianapolis Air Show. He offered me the incredible opportunity to assist in setting up his trailer and work as a hospitality assistant. This experience not only fueled my passion for aviation but also provided invaluable insights into the inner workings of the air show industry.
In 2007, I ventured to Phoenix, Arizona, where I embarked on a thrilling and pivotal experience: my first-ever 45-minute aerobatic flight. As the adrenaline coursed through my veins and the aircraft danced through the skies ( we did over 15 different aerobatic maneuvers) , I couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement and anticipation.
For my parents, this moment represented a pivotal juncture in my journey as a pilot. It was a test of my courage, skill, and passion for aviation—a moment where my fate as a pilot hung in the balance.
Little did they know, this exhilarating experience would ignite a fire within me—a passion for flight that would only continue to grow stronger with each passing day. It was a defining moment that solidified my determination to pursue my dreams and soar to new heights.
You saw some pretty amazing things, then traveled around the world too…
In 2009, I embarked on an exhilarating adventure trekking and climbing in the awe-inspiring Himalayas. Our journey began with a thrilling landing at Lukla Airport, renowned as one of the world’s most dangerous airports due to its challenging terrain and high altitude nestled amidst the majestic mountains of the Himalayas. Undeterred by the daring start, we embarked on our trek, pushing ourselves to new heights both physically and mentally.
Our expedition led us to the breathtaking summit of Gokyo Ri, towering at a staggering altitude of 18,000 feet above sea level. Standing atop this majestic peak, surrounded by the awe-inspiring panorama of the Himalayan peaks, was a moment of unparalleled exhilaration and achievement. And this is where I picked up my first camera before trekking through the Himalayan mountains.
And you learned how to fly too, right?
In 2010, I embarked on my flight training journey with Whitewater Aviation in Harrison, Ohio, marking the beginning of my pursuit of aviation excellence. After a dedicated year and a half of rigorous training, I achieved a significant milestone by obtaining my private pilot license in 2011, solidifying my commitment to mastering the art of flight.
Driven by a relentless passion for aviation, I continued to expand my expertise by pursuing additional ratings.
In 2013, I embarked on a new challenge and obtained my private pilot license seaplane rating, further enhancing my proficiency and versatility in the skies.Each phase of my flight training journey has not only equipped me with the technical skills and knowledge necessary for safe and proficient flying but has also played a pivotal role in shaping me into the aviation filmmaker I am today.
The advanced knowledge and safety measures ingrained in me through these experiences have not only elevated my capabilities as a pilot but have also enriched my approach to aviation filmmaking, ensuring a nuanced understanding and portrayal of aerial dynamics and safety protocols in my work.
2.) What was your big break into aviation as a filmmaker?
My big break into aviation as a filmmaker occurred in 2008 when I was invited to help out Mike Goulian and his team at the Indianapolis Air Show. My responsibilities included documenting the air show alongside David Kicklighter, cleaning the airplane alongside Matt Chapman, setting up the trailer, and assisting with autograph signings after Mike’s performances. This experience ignited a deep passion for the air show community and a desire to learn the ins and outs of the air show industry.
In the following years, I continued to support Mike Goulian as he partnered with ASB.TV and Goodyear Aviation. During this time, I gained invaluable insights from each team member, particularly Chris Porter, Mike’s ferry pilot and media coordinator for several years. Chris, a talented filmmaker, taught me a great deal about aviation filmmaking and the art of storytelling. He provided me with the tools to succeed and guided me through the nuances of the craft.
I watched every single one of Chris’s videos, using them as learning tools to continually improve my own work. I developed new techniques to make aviation filmmaking more engaging, especially within the air show community. Chris’s mentorship and inspiration have been instrumental in shaping my career and fueling my passion for aviation storytelling.
As I continue to immerse myself in the aviation filmmaking and air show industry, I’ve developed several storytelling techniques that define my style.
My approach focuses on intertwining the narratives of both people and aircraft. The air show industry is fundamentally about the people who attend and participate, and through filmmaking, I’ve realized the importance of capturing the synergy between airplanes and people. The art of storytelling, which seamlessly blends these elements, is what I find most crucial in the air show arena.
After graduating from college, I joined several Facebook filmmaking groups and became involved with multiple filmmaking teams around the Cincinnati, Ohio area. I worked on movie, documentary, and commercial sets to learn more about the fundamentals of storytelling and filmmaking. I quickly became obsessed and started participating in filmmaking forums and educational courses regularly. Nearly every week, I was on set, eager to gain as much hands-on experience as possible.
I learned various roles, from production assistant to second camera assistant to first camera assistant, before eventually becoming a director of photography on my own movie set.
Those experiences provided me with a solid foundation in filmmaking, equipping me with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in the industry. Learning the intricacies of each role, from production assistant to second camera assistant to first camera assistant, allowed me to develop a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process.
This journey culminated in my role as director of photography on my own movie set, where I honed my craft even further.
These invaluable lessons have been instrumental in shaping me into the aviation filmmaker and storyteller I am today. The technical expertise, attention to detail, and creative vision I cultivated during this time have enabled me to create compelling and visually captivating narratives within the aviation and air show industry.
3.) Can you tell me about your latest project?
“Angels In The Sky” is a captivating short film documentary that delves into the awe-inspiring world of the Blue Angels, the legendary precision flying team of the United States Navy. Through breathtaking aerial footage, intimate interviews, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, the film pays homage to the dedication, skill, and sheer daring of these elite aviators.
Filmed with ground-breaking slow-motion cinema, “Angels In The Sky” immerses viewers in the heart-pounding excitement of the Blue Angels’ aerial performances like never before. Every twist, turn, and gravity-defying maneuver is captured with stunning clarity and precision, allowing audiences to experience the thrill of flight in exquisite detail.
From their humble beginnings in 1946 to their current status as icons of aviation excellence, the Blue Angels have enthralled audiences worldwide with their mesmerizing aerobatic displays.
Through their unwavering commitment to honor, courage, and excellence, they have inspired generations of aviators and enthusiasts alike.
The documentary takes viewers on a journey behind the scenes, showcasing the rigorous training and selection processes that Blue Angels pilots undergo. From mastering the intricacies of the F/A-18 Super Hornet to executing flawless maneuvers in the sky, each pilot’s journey is a testament to the pursuit of excellence.
But the Blue Angels are more than just pilots; they are a tightly-knit family supported by a dedicated ground crew. The film highlights the indispensable role of the ground crew, whose precision and dedication ensure that every aircraft operates flawlessly, even under the most demanding conditions.
As the Blue Angels take to the skies, the film captures the heart-pounding excitement of their aerial performances, from high-speed passes to gravity-defying maneuvers.
Through stunning cinematography and ground-breaking slow-motion footage, viewers are transported into the cockpit, experiencing the thrill of flight firsthand.
But beyond the spectacle of their performances, “Angels In The Sky” explores the deeper impact of the Blue Angels on audiences around the world. From inspiring a sense of wonder and awe to fostering camaraderie and unity, their airshows transcend mere entertainment, leaving an indelible mark on all who witness them.
Through the lens of “Angels In The Sky,” audiences will gain a newfound appreciation for the dedication, skill, and courage of the Blue Angels, whose soaring achievements remind us that with determination and a shared sense of purpose, anything is possible in the vast expanse of the sky.
4.) This project features the Blue Angels, why is this project so special for you?
“Angels In The Sky” elevates the tribute to the Blue Angels to new heights, capturing their extraordinary aerial feats in stunning detail with groundbreaking 5K resolution at 600 frames per second slow-motion cinema.
This state-of-the-art filming technique immerses viewers in the heart of the action, allowing them to witness every intricate maneuver with unparalleled clarity and precision. As the pilots execute their daring maneuvers, the slow-motion footage reveals the graceful choreography and intense focus required for each flight, showcasing the dedication and skill of both the pilots and their support crew on the ground.
Beyond the sheer spectacle of the airshow, “Angels In The Sky” delves into the profound impact of the Blue Angels on the air show community, inspiring admiration and unity among spectators of all ages.
Through innovative cinematography, the film captures the essence of flight in a way that transcends traditional storytelling, reminding viewers of the boundless possibilities that exist when we push the limits of what is possible.
With each frame, “Angels In The Sky” invites audiences to embark on a mesmerizing journey through the skies, where angels dance amidst the clouds, inspiring generations with their courage and grace.
5.) You have quite the camera for it. What did you film this Blue Angels video with?
I shot “Angels in the Sky” using the high-end slow-motion camera, the Freefly Ember S5K, which delivers breathtaking 5K resolution at an astonishing 600 frames per second. This state-of-the-art technology allowed me to capture each aircraft with remarkable clarity and precision, bringing every detail of their extraordinary aerial maneuvers to life.
The Freefly Ember S5K’s capabilities enabled me to film the intricate choreography and seamless coordination between the Blue Angels pilots and their support crew, revealing the true artistry and dedication behind each flight.
With its ability to record in ultra-high definition and at such a high frame rate, I was able to slow down time itself, providing viewers with a unique and mesmerizing perspective on the Blue Angels’ performances.
This cutting-edge cinematography not only highlights the technical prowess and skill of the aviators but also transforms their high-speed maneuvers into a graceful ballet in the sky, capturing the essence and beauty of flight in ways never before seen.
6.) How can our fans watch your film?
You can watch “Angels In The Sky” on YouTube by visiting the “Kyle Newsom Aviation” channel. Simply enter “Kyle Newsom Aviation” in the search bar to find this visually stunning documentary and immerse yourself in the breathtaking world of the Blue Angels.
7.) What advice do you have for other avgeeks who might be interested in following in your footsteps?
A few lessons I’ve learned over the years and continued pursuit in the aviation filmmaking world;
Passion and Dedication: Cultivate a deep passion for aviation and commit yourself to continuous learning. Your enthusiasm will drive you through the challenges and help you stay motivated
Invest in Quality Equipment: High-quality equipment can make a significant difference in the outcome of your projects. Invest in the best cameras and editing tools you can afford to capture the stunning details of aircraft and aerial maneuvers.
Learn Cinematography Skills: Take the time to learn the fundamentals of cinematography, including lighting, framing, and editing. Understanding these principles will enhance your ability to create compelling and visually stunning content.
Network with the Community: Connect with other aviation enthusiasts, pilots, and professionals in the field. Attend airshows, join aviation forums, and engage with the community online to build relationships and gain valuable insights.
Practice and Experiment: Regularly practice filming and editing. Experiment with different techniques and styles to develop your unique perspective and improve your skills.
Stay Updated on Technology: The field of cinematography and photography is constantly evolving. Stay informed about the latest advancements in technology and incorporate new tools and techniques into your work.
Share Your Work: Don’t be afraid to share your creations with the world. Use platforms like YouTube, social media, and aviation forums to showcase your work and receive feedback.
Be Patient and Persistent: Success doesn’t happen overnight. Be patient with your progress and persistent in your efforts. Keep honing your craft and stay committed to your passion for aviation.
You can see more of Kyle Newsom’s work on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.
