Friday, 17 July 2026

Dreams Come True

It feels like my whole Storytime career has led to the special moments I have experienced in the last two years. The moment when I performed at London's largest indoor arena last year was the moment I realised it doesn't get bigger than this! In fact, when I think about it, it's actually a lifetime of work that I must thank for these moments. 

I have been extremely lucky in my life and have had the opportunity to perform on some of the biggest stages in the world. From Opera Houses as a professional Ballet dancer to some of the largest stages as a singer and musician. But I never could have imagined that my Storytime would take me all the way to ExCel London and The O2. From a local nursery to volunteering at libraries, for charities and community events, to MCM Comic Cons and The O2, what an extraordinary journey I have been on! Dreams can and do come true.

Anna Christina at The O2

The last few years have been extremely tough for me. Last year, I was still recovering from one of the most horrifying experiences of my life. I was extremely vulnerable. But I have always believed that I am one of the luckiest people on this planet, and not only do I have an amazing support system, but I have become unbreakable.

My career began at 8 years old. Too late for a pro dancer, but my ballet teacher said I had "something". She must have been right because I won a scholarship to attend a prestigious Ballet boarding school. It was extremely tough. It was there, in a tiny music cell with a piano, where I began to compose music and write songs. It would be years later, after I had become a Rock Star, when these particular skills of mine would come to light with Music Audio Stories.

It may seem crazy to say this, considering the careers I have had, but Music Audio Stories is my greatest challenge yet! With so many moving parts to it, so many skills and technical abilities needed, it really is multitasking to the max! I have to draw on all my training, experience and knowledge to make the company a success. But more than success, it has brought such joy, fulfillment, and magic into my life. Dare I say it, even saved my life at times! This is why I feel compelled to give back. This is why I have made it my life's mission to bring as much joy and happiness as I can with Music Audio Stories and my Storytime.

I am now experiencing a creative and peaceful phase of life. Once you have seen and experienced what I have, an empathy and understanding you didn't have before evolves. I forgive easily. I hold no grudges. I don't hold on to the past, I don't judge others or pretend to know their struggles in life because we all have no idea what others are going through. We may not notice the sad eyes above the smile. We are all at different stages emotionally and spiritually.

What I do know is that life is short. Share your talents and joy, connect with others on a deep level and be brave enough to keep your heart open to love as much as you can. Even if someone has broken your heart, even if you feel alone, you are not alone. Look to the power within; you have it. We all do.

♥ Anna-Christina 

I am delight to be returning to The O2 this month for Storytime, Book Signing and to run the Music Audio Stories stall! Come and meet me at the Upper-Level seating area at:

Outlet Shopping at The O2
Saturday 18th July
Sunday 19th July
Friday 24th July
Saturday 25th July
Sunday 26th July
11:00am | 11:30am | 12:00pm | 12:30pm

Full details here: musicaudiostories.com/blog/magical-storytime-at-the-o2

Storytime with Anna Christina

Monday, 6 July 2026

Second Book Out Now!

I'm thrilled to announce the release of my second picture book!


Chris the Caterpillar Picture Book

Fill your child's heart with magic and inspire their self-belief as they discover an enchanted garden with a fairy in my magical new picture book! Chris the Caterpillar inspires self-belief and will leave your child feeling uplifted and connected to nature as they learn about the beautiful, colourful flowers in the garden. During the story, children will learn the name and colour of each flower. Find out more below.

CHRIS THE CATERPILLAR
https://bit.ly/ctcpage

EBOOK & PAPERBACK
https://amzn.com/dp/B0F1SSNN6G

To celebrate the release of Chris the Caterpillar, I am offering the Kindle ebook on Amazon with a discount for a limited time. Please get the ebook and leave a magical review. Every review counts, and I would greatly appreciate it. This book has been a real labour of love, and I hope you enjoy it as much as we, my awesome illustrator, Jenika Ioffreda, and I have enjoyed creating it.

Dedicated to my dear father, who first taught me music. 

♥ Anna-Christina 


Follow my work here:

Website: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/ 

Storytime: http://storytimewithannachristina.com/ 

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MusicAudioStories

Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicaudiostory 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicaudiostories

Storytime with Anna Christina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storytimewithannachristina

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicaudiostories

Friday, 22 May 2026

Let The Magic Begin!

'Storytime with Anna Christina' is back in 2026 with more stories, more music, and more magic! I am so excited for my first Storytime which is this weekend at MCM London Comic Con! I have created a magical, interactive, musical workshop of read-alouds, listening, learning, singing, and dancing. Children will hear 3 Music Audio Stories, including Superhero Bugs, specially written and composed for MCM. Plus, children at my Storytime this weekend will be the first to see my new picture book, Chris the Caterpillar! It's going to be great!

Not only that, I'm delighted to tell you I have been invited to do Storytime at all the shows this year!

Catch me on:

📅 Saturday 23rd May 
📅 Sunday 24th May
🕘 11:15am to 12:15pm
📍 ExCel London
🌳 at The Treehouse

📅 Saturday 8th August 
🕘 1pm to 2pm
📍 NEC Birmingham
🌳 at The Treehouse

📅 Saturday 24th October 
📅 Sunday 25th October
🕘 11am to 12pm
🕘 11:45am to 12:45pm
📍 ExCel London
🌳 at The Treehouse

💰 Children 4 and under go FREE!

Info and ticket link for the first show below.
ℹ️ musicaudiostories.com/blog/magical-storytime-at-mcm

It's a dream come true!

My mission is to make sure little ones leave my workshop feeling creative, confident, and inspired to believe in magic. Can you guess what my new theme is? :-)

Wish me luck...

♥ Anna-Christina 

Storytime with Anna Christina at MCM

Follow my work here:

Website: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/ 

Storytime: http://storytimewithannachristina.com/ 

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MusicAudioStories

Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicaudiostory 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicaudiostories

Storytime with Anna Christina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storytimewithannachristina

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicaudiostories

Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Debut Album Coming Soon

Hello, everyone, I'm back!

For the last few months, I've been locked away in my recording studio, and I'm delighted to announce that I will be releasing my first classical album later this year!

I spent time hunting down piano pieces I composed when I was at school, in my 20s, and more recent compositions. I found demos on cassette tapes, hence the multitracker! I love the idea of taking listeners on a heartfelt journey, inspired by my experiences ranging from my youth to more recent years.

The album will feature 8 classical pieces led by the piano, recorded and produced at my own studio, and will be available on all streaming platforms. I can't wait to tell you more about it. I also have lots more news to tell you about regarding the publication of my second book, events, and other releases, and lots going on at Music Audio Stories to report.

In the meantime, you can now purchase and stream all of my band's music, including the latest release of my Tribute song dedicated to my dear drummer, Belle Star. Visit Lilygun's Shop.

It's all happening...

♥ Anna-Christina 

 annachristinamusic.com

Saturday, 1 April 2023

When The Universe Has Other Plans!

Dear all,

I felt it necessary to tell everyone who has been following this blog, how much I have appreciated your support. However, I must say that this will be my last blog post for a while. There is a reason for this decision and I know that you will like it...

Over the last few years, I have experienced a huge transformation, both in my personal and business life. In 2020, I restructured, rebranded and relaunched my company, Music Audio Stories, and it has turned out to be one of the best things that has ever happened to me! My career has gone from strength to strength and exceeded my wildest expectations.

However, not many people know that around this time, I was being stalked online, not by a fan or follower, (my fans are the best), but by the most unlikely person imaginable. I collected photographic evidence of this stalker's behaviour. I blocked the profiles and those associated. This experience made me aware of the fact that I have become a public figure. I don't feel the need to name and shame this person as to me, they are insignificant and I'm a strong believer in karma!

Being a public figure is a challenge. I love being in my recording studio creating music audiobooks, classical film scores and rock music but it seems the Universe has other plans for me at the moment!

My book and Storytime with Anna Christina have taken me to some of the largest events and venues in London, such as the Barbican Centre, MCM London Comic Con at ExCel London and Olympia London, and is ever more popular and growing. With sell-out library events, school and nursery demands, it appears the Universe wants me to embrace the fact that my public appearances will not be ending any time soon!

I've still got all the moves and grooves I need... (yes, that is me!)

Anna Christina | Ballet on the Beach | annachristinamusic.com

On this happy note, bless you all for your love and support. I hope you will continue following my extraordinary journey with Music Audio Stories on the platforms below and you can follow me on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/Anna_Christina.

BIG things are coming and this story has only just begun!

♥ Anna-Christina

Continue following my work here:

Website: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/ 

Storytime: http://storytimewithannachristina.com/ 

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MusicAudioStories

Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicaudiostory 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicaudios... 

Storytime with Anna Christina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storytimewi... 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicaudiost...

Sunday, 23 October 2022

The BIG One!

Well, what a Summer that was! The last few months have been about picture book business, sell-out Storytimes, great events and lots of book signings! My Library Book Signing Tour was brilliant and there are too many experiences to write about here, but I will say, please go and read this blog post which concludes my tour: https://musicaudiostories.com/blog/library-book-tour.

Storytime with Anna Christina - Library Book Signing Tour 2022

Tada! I have some very special picture books for you! When I began my Music Audio Stories journey, I never could have imagined how dramatically it would change my life and how many unfamiliar situations it would put me in. If you follow my posts on social media, you would have noticed by now that I cover many many aspects, both in the creative and business fields.

One thing I didn't think of when I started to produce children's products was the fact that I would have to sell them. Sales! Another fun-filled world to learn about and not just online sales. Selling in person is not for the fainthearted! 🤣 

I was thrown in at the deep end a few years ago and it was a tough learning curve for me. There are sales techniques that help and are worth learning but one of the best lessons I have learned over the years from running stalls is to simply have fun!

Never put pressure on yourself to sell. It doesn't help! Just relax and enjoy telling people about the things you have created and leave expectations at home. Don't take lack of sales personally and always be prepared for the unexpected!

At this point, I must direct you to another blog post I wrote here: https://musicaudiostories.com/blog/festival-fun about the fun I had at this year's Hidden River Festival! As always, there's so much I want to tell you about but Music Audio Stories takes up so much of my time these days, that I have to be very selective with my time and so I move on quickly here to tell you about my next event. It's a BIG one...

Storytime with Anna Christina at MCM London Comic Con

I'm so proud to announce that my Storytime is heading to MCM London Comic Con! 🎉 This is the largest event and venue I'll have the privilege of performing at and I absolutely can't wait! Earlier this year, I brought my new picture book, Billy Joins the Circus, to MCM for Book Signing and it was brilliant. Now, I have been invited to do my fun interactive musical Circus Storytime for the children on Sunday 30th October at ExCel London. 

 Full event details and ticket link here: musicaudiostories.com/blog/storytime-at-mcm-london-comic-con

Don’t miss out on the best weekend of the year and my super fun Circus Storytime. Your little ones are in for a treat!

See you there...

♥ Anna-Christina

Website: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/ 

Storytime: http://storytimewithannachristina.com/ 

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MusicAudioStories

Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicaudiostory 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicaudios... 

Storytime with Anna Christina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storytimewi... 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicaudiost...

Sunday, 24 July 2022

Here and There, This and That

Ok, so normally, I would be using this time writing this blog post to tell you about my next Music Audio Stories event and I will, but first I want to write about something else. Quickly!

Anna Christina from Music Audio Stories
Since my last blog post, I did have another event and it was a huge success for many reasons. Last weekend, I took part in Brompton Annual Open Day. It was the first time setting up the Music Audio Stories stall with my new picture books, Storytime supplies and my interactive space for children.

A table may not seem like such an important thing to write about but I felt so proud, just seeing all of the fun things I have created over the years for children to enjoy, all laid out looking so beautiful. With the evolution of my company, so too has my stall evolved and it's still growing all the time. I spend so much time rushing here and there, doing this and that, I rarely have a moment to contemplate what I am achieving. But standing there, at my stall, looking at my products, I've never felt so proud of myself.

I have spent years testing my products to make sure they meet my high standards so I could go out into the world with confidence and say, yes, children love this. Yes, this is recommended by teachers. Yes, parents love it too and yes, reviewers and customers have given these products 5-star ratings!

I'm glad I took my time to try to perfect every detail because now, nothing is giving me more joy than seeing children reading and enjoying my new picture book in particular. I realise this is only the beginning of my book journey but so far, it has been extremely well received. Both the parents and children love the concept of the book with the audio and activities inside. I've had so many wonderful comments on the story, the colourful vibrant illustrations and the high-end quality of the book. It was well worth the great effort and investment put into it.

I am about to start my Library Book Signing Tour tomorrow which is so exciting! A new phrase of my life and business has already begun and I know that life will be busier than ever before but I am 100% up for the challenge. I can do the long days that often stretch late into the evening. I can do the heavy administration involved. I can manage the many social media platforms at once (with a little help from a friend).  I can sit there making and wrapping up hundreds of books to perfection over and over again. Why? Because I love Music Audio Stories and I love the positive impact it's having on children.

Read about my last event and see photos of my table and Storytime in the chapel here: funday-in-brompton

All the years of hard work that have led me to this moment were completely worth it and I can't wait to see what unfolds in the months ahead.

♥ Anna-Christina

Storytime with Anna Christina - Library Book Signing Tour

Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/musicaud... 

Website: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/ 

Storytime: http://storytimewithannachristina.com/ 

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Subscribe to get a free audiobook here: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/#sub... 

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicaudiostory 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicaudios... 

Storytime with Anna Christina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storytimewi... 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicaudiost...

 

Monday, 4 July 2022

London Film and Comic Con

Woohoooo! The surprises keep on coming. I've got another BIG announcement!

I'm brimming with excitement to tell you that my third book signing event will be at this year's London Film & Comic Con! July 2022 sees the return of Showmasters London Film & Comic Con at Olympia London. It promises to bring you some of your favourite stars from TV, Film and Comics as well as a whole host of fun activities including photo shoots, panels, autograph sessions and hundreds of stalls full of TV and Film memorabilia to browse.

The event has around 100,000 attendees over three days and takes up the whole of London Olympia. I am thrilled to have been invited to do a book signing with my illustrator, Jenika Ioffreda.

Anna Christina at London Film and Comic Con 2022
 

Olympia London

Date: Friday 8th July
Time: 10 am - 7 pm

Date: Saturday 9th July
Time: 9 am - 7 pm

Date: Sunday 10th July
Time: 9 am - 6 pm

Address: Hammersmith Road
London
W14 8UX

Train Station: Kensington Olympia (District line)


Come and meet the stars, comic book artists, authors and illustrators and of course me! I will be there on all three days, so come and say hello to me and my illustrator, Jenika, and get your signed discounted copy of our new picture book, Billy Joins the Circus!

See you there...

♥ Anna-Christina

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Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/musicaud... 

Website: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/ 

Storytime: http://storytimewithannachristina.com/ 

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Subscribe to get a free audiobook here: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/#sub... 

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicaudiostory 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicaudios... 

Storytime with Anna Christina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storytimewi... 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicaudiost...

Wednesday, 15 June 2022

MCM London Comic Con

Wow! This word pretty much sums up my time at MCM London Comic Con. As I mentioned in my previous blog post, I've been to a convention before but this was the first time I was there as an exhibitor and it was quite an experience. My illustrator, Jenika Ioffreda, takes part in many Comic Cons, all over the world, and it was absolutely brilliant to be there with her, signing copies of our new picture book, Billy Joins the Circus.

Anna Christina ad Jenika Ioffreda at MCM London Comic Con
 
I rolled into ExCel London, with my purple suitcase full of picture books, at around 4 pm on Thursday for set up. I purchased a snazzy new Beeswift Hi-Vis security jacket and as soon as the set up was complete, I headed over to check out The Treehouse and the Family Lounge area. It was a magical forest setting, complete with cute mushrooms, bean bags, little tables, sunflowers and a tree at its center point. I've never seen ExCel this way before. In set up mode. It was pretty cool seeing the artists and creators wheeling their things in and setting up. It was 'the quiet' before the show!

Music Audio Stories at MCM London Comic Con

We created an interactive space where children could listen, watch videos, read and learn about our story, Billy Joins the Circus. It was a lovely opportunity for little ones to meet us and get a signed discounted copy of our beautiful new picture book.

From the moment I stepped off the train at Custom House on Friday morning, I felt like I had stepped into another Universe! I rushed past Spiderman, Wonder Woman and many other superheroes as I was running late and wanted to make sure everything was ready to go before they arrived. After a few little adjustments, quick photos and a coffee, the doors opened and the fun began. MCM London Comic Con is the biggest convention of this kind in the UK, with about 130000 visitors in three days. Saturday was sold out and although there were times when I found it a challenge to keep up, it was fantastic!

We were in the Artist Alley close to The Treehouse and Family Lounge area, so every now and then I popped over to see the children and chat with the lovely folks over there. I didn't manage to see much of the exhibition or take many more photos as it was so hectic and there wasn't any time. I even missed taking photos of our book signings but I can say, that everyone we talked to had a great time and it was a very successful weekend. I feel so lucky to have been part of such an incredible event and now I can't wait for London Film & Comic Con coming up in July!

As always, I'm trying to keep up but I do have more exciting news, events and I must tell you about an adventure I had recently! More blog posts coming your way so watch this space...

♥ Anna-Christina

Author Anna Christina and illustrator Jenika Ioffreda at Comic Con

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Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/musicaud... 

Website: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/ 

Storytime: http://storytimewithannachristina.com/ 

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Subscribe to get a free audiobook here: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/#sub... 

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicaudiostory 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicaudios... 

Storytime with Anna Christina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storytimewi... 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicaudiost...

Sunday, 22 May 2022

Epic Book Signing Events

I can hardly believe this is happening and how lucky I am to announce my first-ever book signing is at one of the largest events in the UK! MCM London Comic Con! It's back from 27th to 29th May at ExCel London. It's the biggest convention of this kind in the UK, with about 130000 visitors in three days and I am going to be there with my illustrator, Jenika Ioffreda, signing copies of my new picture book, Billy Joins the Circus. WAHOOOOOOO!!!

Anna Christina from Music Audio Stories at MCM London Comic Con

This convention has its roots in comic books. Comic Con started in 1970 as the Golden State Comic-Con, a three-day event that drew about 300 people. As comic book movies have become of increasing importance to Hollywood, there has been more and more movie and television involvement in Comic Con, in turn attracting more mainstream media attention and a wider base of potential attendees. Conventions take place all around the world and they probably have the most comprehensive selection of comics in any one location. Fans dress as their favourite superheroes and it really is packed with fantastic entertainment and so much to see and do.


Check out all the family-friendly interactive sessions, entertaining performances and things to do with your little ones here The Treehouse. Gather your padawans, young wizards and little superheroes! Kids ten and under go free when accompanied by an adult ticket holder – so you can bring the whole family along to enjoy the show, explore the Treehouse family area and make some memories together. I'll be there on all three days, so come and meet me and my illustrator, Jenika, and get your signed discounted copy of my new picture book, Billy Joins the Circus! Don’t miss out on the best weekend of the year...

 


My book signing adventure continues at one of my favourite libraries, on Monday 30th May, with a Storytime Special. I will be entertaining children with my fun interactive musical circus Storytime at Wimbledon Library. Following this, I will be signing discounted copies for the lovely families at the library! Details for both of these fantastic events can be found here:

Storytime Special and Book Signing | MCM London Comic Con

As you can see from the banner above, I will also be at London Film & Comic Con in July! Details for this event will be posted soon, as well as more Storytime Specials, festivals and book signing events throughout the Summer. I can hardly contain my excitement!

Let the adventures begin...

♥ Anna-Christina

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Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/musicaud... 

Website: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/ 

Storytime: http://storytimewithannachristina.com/ 

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Subscribe to get a free audiobook here: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/#sub... 

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicaudiostory 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicaudios... 

Storytime with Anna Christina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storytimewi... 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicaudiost...

 

Saturday, 30 April 2022

On Radio This Weekend

As a winner of the Funky Kids Radio People's Choice National Artist of the Year - Europe 2021 award, I was invited to do a live radio interview on Sunday 3rd April. The interview was broadcast at 7am in Melbourne, Australia.

Anna Christna from Music Audio Stories - Interview on Funky Kids Radio

My interview will be rebroadcasted, along with my music audiobook, Billy Joins the Circus, on Funky Kids Radio this weekend on:

  • Saturday at 8am and 10pm
  • And Sunday at 3pm

Listen here: https://streamdb3web.securenetsystems.net/v5/FKRADIO

And here's a short video with a little message for everyone who voted for me to win this award! 


 BIG THANK YOU once again to everyone who voted for me! I am extremely grateful to you all!

 ♥ Anna-Christina

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Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/musicaud... 

Website: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/ 

Storytime: http://storytimewithannachristina.com/ 

 ---------- 

Subscribe to get a free audiobook here: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/#sub... 

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicaudiostory 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicaudios... 

Storytime with Anna Christina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storytimewi... 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicaudiost...

Friday, 1 April 2022

Live Radio Interview

This is going to have to be a very quick blog post as I'm rushing around doing way too many things at once at the moment! But I did want to keep you up to date on my news, so here we go...

Live Radio Interview


I am super excited to announce that I will be doing a live radio interview on Funky Kids Radio this Sunday 3rd April 4-5pmAEST / 7-8am UK. Live broadcast station: 94.1fm 3WBC Melbourne

Tune in to listen here ➡️ tunein.com/radio/3WBC-941FM-s106230/

This week, I received my lovely new winners badge and certificate. It's been a long time since I've done a live radio interview and I've never done one for Music Audio Stories, so I'm really looking forward to it. I know it's early for UK folks but I hope some of you can tune in and listen to it live!

Funky Kids Radio - National Artist of the Year Winner

Storytime Workshops

On Monday, I begin my Easter Storytimes at various libraries which is so exciting. I heard today that Wimbledon Library has sold out which is AMAZING! This is the second time one of my workshops has sold out this year! Although I'm very busy doing book stuff right now, I actually can't wait to be back at the libraries to see everyone again and to entertain the kids and meet the families. Even though I have enjoyed bringing my Storytime on YouTube, I have missed this side of Music Audio Stories greatly. Dates, times and locations can be found here: https://musicaudiostories.com/blog/easter-storytimes

Storytime with Anna Christina Easter Storytimes flyer

Product Photography

And finally, I wrapped up product photography and there's a new Behind The Scenes YouTube Playlist with all the videos here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhtHjyeLaQXl9-xGR4vS4dGKM-ijZ0Hwb

Anna-Christina doing Music Audio Stories product photography

Right, that's it for now. Got to dash...

♥ Anna-Christina

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Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/musicaud... 

Website: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/ 

Storytime: http://storytimewithannachristina.com/ 

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Subscribe to get a free audiobook here: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/#sub... 

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicaudiostory 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicaudios... 

Storytime with Anna Christina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storytimewi... 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musicaudiost...



Friday, 18 March 2022

Behind The Scenes

After running around in London last month, enthusiastically showing librarians my new picture book, this month, I've switched it up and been in the studio learning how to master product photography. Those of you who have ever attempted to do this may be thinking 'Why? Why AC would you want to put yourself through that trauma?' Well, I thought it would be a fun project and I am always up for a challenge!

First, I had to buy a new camera. Although Nikon cameras are known to be better for beginners due to the fact that their settings and terminology are easier to understand, I went with the Canon. Not only is it a great camera for photography but the video capacity is awesome too. My Canon has a mic input and flip screen which is so important for a YouTuber like me. Plus, people I work with use Canon so in the long run, it will be easier to match up film/photo footage later on.

I can't even tell you the number of times I have turned the camera on and been puzzled as to why there was no picture on the screen, to then realise, I'd left the lens cap on! 😆 It's a good job it comes with a strap too as I have almost dropped the camera several times! Although this camera is pretty straightforward, for a novice like me, it's a little overwhelming. Hello, YouTube tutorials...

Anna-Christina from Music Audio Stories doing product photography

I decided to use my Fovitec Soft Boxes. Lighting is a huge topic especially when it comes to product photography, so before I even attempted to take any photos, I did quite a lot of lighting research. I'm a bit of a studio tech person so I find this kind of thing interesting anyway. It doesn't matter if you have all the correct camera settings and angles right, if the lighting is wrong, the photo won't be good. It's as simple as that. I also decided to go with a white backdrop as I felt products photographed on white would be the most versatile in terms of posting them on Etsy and on the Music Audio Stories website.

No better way to learn than on the job! I set up my products on the floor and began to photograph them. However, about halfway through, I realised two problems...

One, because the display was on the floor, I found that the light was not hitting the products in the right way. This was especially noted on my picture book where I wanted to capture the high gloss finish of the cover. The light was hitting everything from the bottom and not the sides. Plus I was fighting with all sorts of shines and shadows in all the wrong places!

Two, crawling around on the floor for any length of time is agony for the knees and back and not something I would recommend. How did I ever build Lego cities on the floor! It also meant that I couldn't use my tripod for my front-faced shots which was a bit of a pain. However, I still managed to get some nice shots...

For my second shoot, I set up my display on a table which meant I could position my Soft Boxes exactly where I wanted them to be, use my tripod and sit on a stool! Ahhhhhh, this is how 'they' do it... At last, I was getting the hang of using the Canon, taking some decent photos and rather enjoying myself. My mission was to not only take good clear photos but to create lovely scenes and experiment with different angles and layouts. Get creative and have fun. That is so important when you are trying to do something that is challenging. At the end of the day, you've got to be having fun.

Anna Chrisina from Music Audio Stories taking product photos

It's important to learn as much as possible about product photography if you are going to do it yourself but at the end of the day, nothing beats experience. It can be difficult to follow what you may have learned online as everyone's set-up, lights, space etc is different. Make a start, even if you're not ready to and just do it. I haven't fully learned everything about the Canon camera but it has been a fun experience being thrown in, somewhat at the deep end!

Shorts on YouTube here: Music Audio Stories YouTube

Enjoy!

♥ Anna-Christina

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