From Photographer to Founder: Reclaiming Creativity in the Age of Algorithms

As algorithms, AI, and advertising increasingly shape what we see online, many creators struggle to find their place in an ecosystem that rewards trends over originality. In this talk, photographer and Irys founder Alan Schaller shares his journey from artist to entrepreneur and reflects on how social media has evolved over the past decade. He explores why many photographers feel left behind by today’s platforms and how creator-led ecosystems can help rebuild healthier, more meaningful, and more equitable online communities.