Smile! Helicopter will be filming state

LINCOLN, Nebraska -- Nebraska landmarks from east to west and north to south will be captured on high-definition (HD) video by air and used to showcase the state's diverse landscapes, monuments, resources and attractions for future productions to benefit Nebraska. Residents across the state may see a low-flying helicopter July 3-10 as Skyworks, the largest aerial HD footage resource in the world, will be filming Nebraska from the air.

NET, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the Nebraska Tourism Commission and Nebraska Game and Parks have collaborated to hire the London-based firm to acquire this new image collection.

"This footage will provide incredible depth and quality images of our state which we'll all use to inform and educate our citizens," said David Feingold, NET interim general manager. "We're all really excited at this opportunity to capture the best of Nebraska from the air in stunning HD," he added. NET and its partners expect to utilize this new image collection for use on websites, documentaries, publications and for live presentations.

The Skyworks team specializes in top-end aerial filming, creating footage and shows for broadcasters all over the world including National Geographic and the BBC. Interactive content will also eventually be created using the US-built cineflex gyro-stabilized system for filming in full HD. Skyworks' specially- equipped helicopter also features sophisticated tracking and navigation systems.

Nebraskans can follow the flight route in real time at netNebraska.org/skyneb. Visitors to the site will see just-shot footage as well as background details and a daily travel blog from the crew. Follow the Skyworks' Twitter feed at hashtag #skyneb.

"This footage will serve as a testament to Nebraska's beauty and inviting recreation which will help our marketing efforts to expand tourism statewide," said Kathy McKillip, director of the Nebraska Tourism Commission.

According to Christy Rasmussen, communications director for Nebraska Game and Parks, "This project will allow us to showcase the wealth of our outdoor amenities. A big part of the good life in Nebraska is enjoying the outdoors, from our state park system to fishing or viewing wildlife."

"We are delighted to have the chance to film in Nebraska," said Colin Mills of Skyworks. "The combination of great landscapes and the human history of the state makes for a wonderful challenge: to tell some of Nebraska's stories from the sky."