Paris Chong Show features acclaimed photographer Alan Schaller, who discusses his journey into photography, starting from a crush on a girl to becoming a "golden boy" in the industry. He shares insights into his practice, including his initial investment in a Leica camera and his dedication to street photography, which he attributes to an "obsessive maniac" approach and a flexible freelance musician lifestyle.
Schaller also introduces his new company, Iriys, an "ecosystem" designed to support the photography industry. Irys aims to offer book publishing, an agency, galleries, a magazine, and a social media application for photographers. He highlights the company's mission to address challenges faced by photographers in the age of AI and video prevalence, and to create a supportive community where artists receive fair compensation for their work, such as a 50% royalty on book sales.
The conversation touches on personal anecdotes, including humorous stories about dropping cameras and a "midlife crisis" purchase of a vintage Aston Martin during lockdown. Paris Chong expresses excitement about Iris and her involvement as a curator, emphasizing the need for such a platform and Schaller's generous approach to sharing knowledge within the photographic community.
Episode Timestamps
(00:00:00) Intro
(00:01:11) Alan Schaller
(00:06:06) A Funny Meeting
(00:07:16) Irys Photo App
(00:11:32) Lockdown Experience
(00:14:30) Irys, but for real this time
(00:19:33) Book Publishing & PopUp Galleries
(00:25:09) When is the launch of Irys?
(00:27:24) Traveling Life
(00:29:16) Featured Print & Sponsors
(00:33:18) People are obssessed with Alan
(00:37:25) Explaining the Photo
(00:39:30) How we met again, but different.
(00:46:56) Irys Launch Party
(00:48:03) Playing with Chaka Khan
(00:50:02) Outro
Links to Matthew Rolston
- Alan Schaller's Website
- Irys' Photo App - Website
- Alan's Instagram
- Alan's Youtube
- Street Photographer International - Profile
🎵 Music by Andrew Raiher
📸 Shot & Edited at Visible Audio Studios
