This New App Shares Your Photographs without the Anxiety of Views/Likes/Comments/Ads

Imagine an internet that is devoid of views, likes, followers, comments, and ads. Sounds like Nirvana, doesn’t it? Well, a new app for Google and iOS smartphones aims to do just that, but with a social photography twist. Irys is a photography-sharing social network that doesn’t force you to suffer through the self-inflicted worry that can be associated with the pursuit of likes, views, and followers. Rather, Irys is about hallmarking your photographs and not showboating your intangible popularity.

Founded in 2024 by Alan Schaller, who is best known for his association with Street Photography International (SPi) along with his monochrome candid dog portraits, Irys was forged as a nurturing environment for serious professional photographers, as well as the enthusiastic hobbyist. This concept originated when he became frustrated as more and more “social” networks began to push photographers towards a combative world of instant success versus viral failure. Based on this pervasive negativity, Irys is his vision of a “space that celebrates, supports, and uplifts the community.”

In order to achieve this visionary goal, Irys has created a dramatic shift away from likes, views, followers (you can elect to display your followers), comments (you can elect to block comments), ads, and the associated selling of your private data. Instead, you emerge in a blissful state of meet-ups, exhibitions, connections, and talent searches conducted by significant leaders in the photographic industry. These industry leaders will be slowly integrated into Irys beginning in October 2025. DIYP has learned that Leica Camera will be one of the premier members in this industry partnering with Irys.

What’s the Catch?

Wow, all of this sounds great, right? Is there a catch? Well, when you begin Irys, you have a FREE membership. While this level is a bit limited in your access to Irys, you are allowed only 100 image uploads, the creation of two collections, and the ability to join only five groups, you do have the ability to make an in-app purchase of a Premium membership. This $6 per month or $60 per year subscription takes the training wheels off your membership and allows unlimited uploads and access to everything that Irys has to offer. At this point, it’s worth noting that Irys is owned and operated by Silvertone Media Limited.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to break free of worrying about social analytics, Irys might afford you the opportunity to stretch your photographic wings. Just be prepared to pay to play.

Enjoy.

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