ANNA А | photographer
Anna A is my stage name. My real name is Afanasieva, and it is a name that I am deeply proud of. I love my family very much and dedicate my work to my late father, whose support I always feel behind me.
I grew up in a small town in Siberia called Tomsk, where I began my journey as a photographer. From there, I started my career, believing that hard work and dedication could open any door. Step by step, I explored the world around me, working in different cities and countries, and building my portfolio. This experience and knowledge have led me to help other photographers and artists believe in themselves and strengthen their work.
PHILOSOPHY
I always believe that art and photography can help people appreciate the beauty of life and focus on the most significant human values. Pictures are more than mere photographs; they are our memories and a powerful source of inspiration that can make our lives more conscious and meaningful.
I am convinced that photography has a therapeutic and profound psychological impact, as it allows for honest connections and authentic conversations between people. I like to think outside the box and am always open to new experiences, as I want to help others find happiness in the smallest details around us.
EDUCATION
Tomsk State University
Faculty of Journalism
Bachelor in Photojournalism’ 2013
Internship Hochschule Hannover, Germany
University of Applied Sciences and Arts (Prof. Rolf Nobel)
Internship street photography in Istanbul (Prof. Rolf Nobel)
EXPERIENCE and AWARDS
"I FEEL THE WORLD" 2024
Project with Sacer and UN, IOM Egypt
Work dedicated to men's mental health, challenging the stereotype of "Boys don't cry". Documentary, photo exhibition, panel discussion, merchandise (T-shirts and bags) with a brand.
The Egyptian National TV channel discussed the project
“Life through the Eyes of a Migrant” 2022-23
Project for UN, IOM Egypt
15 migrant ladies had been taught how to take pictures with professional cameras
Photo Exhibition at American University, Cairo, Egypt
Photo Book with pictures taken by migrants and documentaries photographers about participants
Documentary about the project
Charity photography work and Master Classes for Sudanese migrants in Egypt
Author of Mental Health Photography programs
10 years of experience in the event, and reportage industry in Russia and Europe
Winner Wedding Awards Siberia’18
Jury member Wedding Awards Siberia’19
Finalist TOP-100 Awards’20
The main Photographer in the author's Workshops in Montenegro, Cappadocia, and Moscow
Creator of author's project with famous dancer Alexander Mogilev
https://theanna-a.com/skulptura-zhizni
Founder online school for photographers
5 years of teaching experience
More than 700 photographers from different countries have graduated my courses
My students' works
https://theanna-a.com/masterclasses
The exhibition "I FEEL THE WORLD"
Cairo, 2024
Opening of the exhibition of documentary photography for UN, IOM Egypt,
"LIFE THROUGH THE EYES OF A MIGRANT"
Cairo, 2023