Connect with the peace and wonder of Nature through Radiant Spirit Gallery’s distinctive photographs and videos created while immersed in the wilderness experience. As a professional free-range photographer, I compose videos and photographs that are natural and organic, with no additives or artificial colors. Meander through a rich portfolio to satisfy your tastes and nourish your soul. Explore these inspirations from nature to find what speaks to you.
Hi there! I'm Dawn LaPointe, a photographer, videographer, and writer based in the Duluth, Minnesota area. I enjoy exploring the Great Lakes region and wilderness areas to compose unique photographs and videos of all-things-nature. Whether you need a special gift or wish to enhance the beauty and energy of your surroundings, I can guide you through the portfolio and search the archives to find what you are seeking. Many photographs and videos from my extensive libraries can be licensed for various purposes. I also welcome commissioned shoots and special requests.
Born and raised near the Mississippi River, I was drawn to the Lake Superior region for its abundant rugged, natural beauty, dramatic seasons, and nearby canoe country. For more than 20 years, I have enjoyed being immersed in Nature, learning about the flora and fauna and ecosystems I encounter, and creating meaningful photographs, video footage, and experiences to share with others. I am passionate about preserving nature's artistry through photography, its wonders through video, and my experiences through writings. Some of my favorite nearby wilderness areas include: the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Quetico Provincial Park in Canada, the Superior Hiking Trail, Lake Superior region, and magnificent public parks. My commitment to capturing unique images of the areas where I live and play, provide rich opportunities for nature lovers and art enthusiasts to enhance their surroundings with the energy and beauty of nature.
My distinctive fine art nature photography reflects my love, reverence, and appreciation of the natural world. My portfolio covers the spectrum, ranging from images of tiny critters on the forest floor, to intimate and grand landscapes, and everything in between, during all seasons, all weather, day and night. I prefer to "rough it" -- paddling and hiking, primitive camping, out in the elements day and night (among some pretty pesky insects, mind you!), away from the hustle and bustle of modern society, often without cellphone signals, immersed in the wilderness experience, flowing with the rhythms of nature, deeply mindful and connected, filled with gratitude. Each of my hikes and canoe trips presents unexpected photographic delights that educate me, provoke wonderment, and strengthen my innate connection with the land. My photographs, videos, and writings convey that mindset along with the essence of my experiences in Nature.
Several photographs have received special recognition:
- “Sunset Paddle”: Wilderness Forever Exhibit, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
in 2014-2016; winner of People in Wilderness category;
- “Through the Fog”: semi-finalist for Wilderness Forever Exhibit;
- “Paddling to Sunrise”, “Fall Landing”, and “Canoeing under the Aurora”: finalists in Smithsonian Magazine
photo contests.
- “Fall Landing”: finalist in 13th annual Smithsonian Magazine
photo contest in 2015.
- “Paddling to Sunrise” and the “Winter on Lake Superior” series: Honorable Mentions in the 2016
International Photography Awards
- “Subzero Shipping” series: Honorable Mention in the 2017 International Photography Awards.
My “Lake Superior Ice Stacking” video mesmerized millions around the globe as it quickly went viral in 2016. The Weather Channel stated, "It's the video we can't stop watching." It was a Highly Honored video in the 2016 Windland Smith Rice Awards.
My award-winning fine art nature photography, videography, and writings can be seen in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, various magazines (including Backpacker, The Boundary Waters Journal, Canoe & Kayak, Canoeroots, Nature's Best Photography, Northern Wilds, and Lake Superior Magazine), documentaries by The Smithsonian Channel, The Weather Channel, and NHK's Great Nature (Japan), and regional art shows and exhibits. I hope that the special recognition of these videos and photographs inspires and encourages viewers to enjoy the outdoors in all seasons and appreciate and protect valuable wild places.
To shop through my online galleries, go to the Galleries tab above. Either place your order online, or contact me by email info@RadiantSpiritGallery.com or phone at 218 . 491 . 3565. To shop in person through my retail partners, visit:
Duluth, Minnesota:
The Frame Corner & Gallery downtown
Two Loons Gallery, Lincoln Park Craft District
Ely, Minnesota:
Piragis Northwoods Company
I also license photographs and video footage and write articles; welcome special projects for individuals, corporations, and institutions (print and digital); and offer tailored guide services and public presentations. Please contact me for more information.
Thank you for visiting and please explore Radiant Spirit Gallery's online gallery often to see photographs from recent adventures with Nature. You'll also find photographs by guest photographer, Gary Fiedler, including images from decades of wilderness canoe adventures such as his 221-day solo canoe trip in 2014. For updates and special offers, "Like" Radiant Spirit Gallery's Facebook page and join my email list.
Find on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/RadiantSpiritGallery (main page)
Visit YouTube Channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/radiantspiritgallery
Follow on Instagram: @RadiantSpiritGallery and @Dawn.LaPointe
Connect with Nature...in Your Own Space
About Dawn
professional photography