“LaDonna’s photographs invite you in—they take you on the trail, into the woods or beside a waterfall.” SDJ, Joplin
Capturing Beauty, Inspiring Gratitude
If my fine art images stir emotions of joy, peace, curiosity, gratitude, or delight—if they make you smile, bring to mind cherished memories, or spark a desire to explore this ever-changing, majestic world—then I have accomplished my purpose.
As a native of southwest Missouri, the Ozarks have my heart. But my love for travel and adventure extends far beyond, with an appreciation for history and the fleeting beauty of the natural world I love exploring new places. Through my venture, Barns, Backroads & Byways Photography, I preserve images of rustic barns, disappearing landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. Some of my favorite moments come from chasing the glow of a sunrise, discovering hidden waterfalls, or witnessing nature’s quiet magic.
Whether I’m navigating a winding backroad, hiking a rugged trail, or paddling solo on a peaceful river, my journeys are fueled by curiosity—and sometimes, they lead to unexpected adventures. One such experience, surviving a freezing January night atop Taum Sauk Mountain in a lightning storm, became a defining chapter in my book, I’m Here for a Purpose: True Stories of Faith, Survival, Gratitude, and Determination.
Why Photography?
I am on a mission to create images that bring joy and gratitude amid the craziness and uncertainty of life. While the world may feel overwhelming at times, my art serves as a reminder that beauty still abounds, and God is in control. Time spent outdoors—or even a simple moment gazing at an image of a waterfall, sunset, or pastoral scene—can lift the spirit and restore the soul. I truly believe that gratitude is life changing–it can transform your perspective–and surrounding yourself with images of God’s handiwork can be a powerful, life-giving practice.
As the future of our national parks and natural spaces faces uncertainty, I strive to preserve these wonders through photography, encouraging others to explore, create new memories, and cherish these treasures before they disappear.
Ahhh! The Ozarks
Have you ever been to the Ozarks? The rolling hills, deep hollows, and hidden wonders of southern Missouri and northern Arkansas are among America’s best-kept secrets. My images merely skim the surface of what this landscape has to offer—caves, springs, waterfalls, wild horses, craggy bluffs, fields of wildflowers, moss-covered boulders, and an ever-changing array of birds and butterflies. I hope my work sparks your curiosity and inspires you to experience these wonders for yourself.
A Journey Rooted in Gratitude
My journey into photography began as an extension of gratitude. I first started capturing images of the Ozarks for my book series, 21 Reasons to Say Thank You, and what began as a creative pursuit quickly became a passion. Without formal training, I rely on an adventurous spirit, a keen eye for the memorable, and an unwavering appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.
Growing up in a large family on a small budget in southwest Missouri taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and an appreciation for the little things. That perspective—shaped by curiosity, adventure, and a commitment to gratitude—guides the way I see and capture the world through my lens.
The Gear Behind the Journey
For those who love the technical side of photography, I started with a Nikon Coolpix P500 before upgrading to a Nikon D5600. Sadly, my D5600 died on the second day of a Glacier National Park photo shoot. I spent the next two days getting a new D850 shipped to my hotel. If you’ve ever tried to get an expensive item shipped to a hotel it’s like moving a mountain–nearly impossible. It was June and there were fires to the west of the park. After missing the only two smoke-free days, the camera finally arrived. That’s how it goes sometimes. However, I managed to get some striking photos, despite the smoky environment. Today, I shoot with a range of lenses and filters, from 18mm to 600mm, and a sturdy tripod. A mirrorless Z camera and a macro lens are next on my wishlist—because, just like any good adventure, the journey never truly ends.
You can find more of my work at:
BarnsBackroads.com
21ReasonstoSayThankYou.com
Facebook
Barns Backroads Byways
21 Reasons to Say Thank You
Instragram
BarnsBackroadsByways
Print Features/Mentions
January 2024 Schweitzer Brentwood Library
March 2023 Missouri Life
December 2022 The Quill, Glendale High School, Springfield, MO
December 2022 Springfield Daily Citizen
May 2021 Metro Woman
Galleries
Missouri Life Mercantile, Rocheport, Missouri
Columbia Art League, Columbia, Missouri
Lucid TLC, Nixa, Missouri
Membership/Affiliations
2018 – Present Springfield Regional Art Council
2021 – Present Studio 55, Springfield, MO
2022 – Present Best of Missouri Hands (Juried Member since 2023)
2021 – Present Southwest Missouri Art & Craft Guild
2024 – Present Columbia Art League
2015 – Present 1 Million Cups Advisor/Organizer
2021 – 2025 The Victim Center, Board of Directors, Springfield, MO
