Embark on a journey into the realm of AI with Rory Flynn, the founder of Systematiq AI. Rory is recognized for his expertise on platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube. He is a prominent figure in operational AI. In this captivating discussion, he shares insights from his year-long AI journey, highlighting Midjourney’s impactful role in addressing operational gaps for businesses.
Rory envisions a future where AI seamlessly integrates into daily business operations, offering personalized solutions. Throughout the conversation, ethical considerations, copyright implications, and responsible AI practices are explored. Delving into Midjourney’s intricacies, Rory provides valuable tips, emphasizing managing expectations and unlocking creative potential through advanced prompts.
His insights extend to the monetization possibilities of Midjourney, where entrepreneurs leverage it for various purposes. The interview touches on the broader AI landscape, comparing Midjourney to alternatives. Rory also discusses the evolving role of AI in email marketing, showcasing how Midjourney enhances visual impact.
He also shares his reflections on Midjourney’s creative possibilities and its impact on the design community. His words resonate with optimism, encouraging an embrace of AI’s transformative potential in shaping creativity.
About Guest
Guest Name: Rory Flynn
What They Do: Rory is a dynamic individual with Midjourney Mastery, specializing in AI consulting for marketers. He is also an expert AdWorld Pro Speaker.
Company: Systematiq AI
Known For: Rory Flynn is the Founder of Systematiq AI.
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Video Interview with Rory Flynn, Founder Systematic AI
Interview with Rory Flynn, Founder Systematic AI
First Steps in AI and Midjourney
I know you’re a MidJourney expert, nailing it on LinkedIn, and YouTube, and speaking about AI and Midjourney. Can you please give us a quick brief intro about who you are and what you do?
Rory Flynn: Thank you for having me. This conference has been out of control, so it’s cool. My name is Rory Flynn, and I am the founder of Systematiq AI. Essentially, we are an operational AI agency. We dive into people’s businesses, identify operational gaps, and then fill those gaps with AI. Midjourney is a subtle obsession of mine, working in various business functions, especially for small businesses.
The accessibility of these tools to the average person is unprecedented. You don’t need to be a Fortune 500 company to leverage the incredible technology introduced since the internet. I’m pretty excited about it, as you can probably tell. It’s something I shout about from the rooftops at every chance I get!
For how long have you been in the AI industry?
Rory Flynn: I’ve only been doing this for about a year now. Around last November-December, I took a leap into ChatGPT and thought, “What the hell is this, and what else is out there?” It opened up a Pandora’s Box of possibilities for me! Coming from a digital marketing background, working in email marketing and paid media, it became clear that we’re so far behind if we’re not using this technology. Everyone else is going to lap us, so we need to get on this stuff ASAP. Don’t even think about it; just dive in.
Midjourney and AI
So, for people who don’t know about AI, especially for beginners, can you give us a quick brief about what AI is, and what Midjourney is,?
Rory Flynn: Sure, so if you’re not familiar with Midjourney, essentially, it’s a powerful image generator. What that means is, that you can type in some text, and it’ll generate a picture. It’s not as hard as it sounds; there’s definitely a learning curve. But for something like Midjourney, there are so many different uses for it. You don’t have to be a power user to get good results; you don’t have to be super talented as a designer. You can plug little holes easily, depending on what you need.
“It’s not just a tool—it’s a game-changer for businesses, providing quick, easy, and limitless visual solutions for scaling and innovation.”
Rory Flynn
Whether you’re building a website, an email, or a blog post, sometimes you just need a neon gradient or something similar. Instead of needing a designer or figuring out Photoshop, you can just type a few words, press enter, and it comes out in 30 seconds. The opportunity for scaling businesses with tools like Midjourney is wild, and it’s super easy to utilize. It can be a game-changer for any business that wants to get creative with it.
Copyrighting and AI
What about copyright laws that exist? Let’s say I want to create a picture of Spider-Man just wandering in New York. How does that work?
Rory Flynn: Copyright is definitely a hot-button issue. My understanding regarding the copyright portion is that Midjourney claims you are covered under their terms and conditions. However, I’m pretty careful with what I put out into the marketplace, especially on the content side.
I’m more risk-averse there. If I’m doing anything commercially, I won’t engage in anything that has potential copyright issues. I also use tools like reverse image search when doing anything commercially or for marketing purposes. What you generate with Midjourney can be pretty close to some existing images because it pulls images from all over the Internet, and we don’t exactly know how Midjourney was trained.
So, when you use a reverse image search, sometimes you can trace back where the generated content originated. It’s fascinating to see the connections. The good thing about Midjourney is that you can push send and get four image selections. You can re-run it as many times as you want. If something is close to existing content, just don’t use it; regenerate another image.
“Midjourney is a platform where innovation meets responsibility, and the power to generate brilliance is tempered with caution.”
Rory Flynn
In the design world, many lawyers use reverse image search to find their client’s work and potentially pursue legal action. It’s something to be aware of. I’m not a lawyer, but my understanding is that anything fully created by AI cannot be copyrighted under US law. Essentially, whatever you generate becomes free to use. It’s like your own personal stock photography that anyone else can use.
Sure, there are some risks to manage, but the potential upside of using Midjourney far outweighs the risks.
Do you have some suggestions or tips for people who are generating AI images for professional use?
Rory Flynn: Many online influencers who build or share their prompts tend to use specific artist names in their prompts, for example, “generate an image in the style of Michael Bay”. In my opinion, this can be done for personal use. But if you’re doing this professionally, there could be legal action when people get to your prompt and find you using artist names!
One way to avoid all of this is to simply use ChatGPT to understand the kind of composition, art style, technical equipment, or color scheme used by a specific artist. Then you can use that information, instead of the artist’s name, to build your prompts. I feel like it’s a better way to avoid any legal concerns.
Unlocking the Potential of Midjourney
Since we are on the topic of image styling, could you provide some examples of how to use advanced prompts to create amazing images?
Rory Flynn: One underutilized aspect of Midjourney is image prompting. You can put an image into Midjourney as inspiration and then add a text prompt to build off that image or make it more diverse. For advanced processes, I generate a lot of images in Midjourney in a two-step process.
If you want something diverse and intricate, you have to put a lot of detail in the prompt. But sometimes Midjourney won’t hit on every element of the prompt. So, I break it into two steps. I take one base image and create a pattern or intricate detail separately. Then, I blend them using an image prompt.
For example, if I want an intricate pattern on a shirt. But I want the model to be in a bustling area in Bangkok. So, I’ll start by creating the pattern separately and the model in Bangkok separately. Then I’ll blend them both with my image prompt. It’ll take that pattern and put it on the model’s shirt. This way, I get exactly what I want without spending forever trying to prompt every detail!
Do you have any tips on how to get the most out of Midjourney? Are there any key parameters or aspects of Midjourney that you find important?
Rory Flynn: Understanding Midjourney as a tool at the granular level is essential. Once you know its basic functions, you can build advanced images out of it. Understanding parameters like aspect ratio, stylize, chaos, and even the image weight parameter is crucial. Image weight allows you to put more emphasis on either the image or text portion, giving you more control over the output. Knowing these granular details can significantly trim 90% of the time spent on experimenting with the tool.
Is Midjourney the best tool, or should we consider using other platforms like DALL.E 3, Stable Diffusion, or others?
Rory Flynn: It’s a matter of personal preference, Kripesh. I see DALL.E 3 as the Canva to Midjourney’s Photoshop! DALL.E 3 is pretty easy to use, now that it’s native within ChatGPT. It’s excellent for prompt coherence, producing exactly what you put in the prompt. However, Midjourney offers a step up in quality. So, you essentially have to sacrifice some of the coherence for a better-looking image on Midjourney.
Stable Diffusion, on the other hand, is a more advanced tool with the potential for custom training, but it requires more technical capability and a bit more processing power from a hardware standpoint. It’s all about what suits your needs. I think people will move towards Stable Diffusion as they begin to understand it better.
There are other free tools like Leonardo and Musafir AI, which I’ve had good results with and are user-friendly.
What are some of the common misconceptions people have about AI and using tools like Midjourney?
Rory Flynn: One major misconception is the expectation that everything needs to be a finished product. People often look for tools to do the entire job, like generating ads from start to finish. They think they can type in a request, and voila, there’s a perfect ad. Things don’t work like that, at least not yet!
You need to invest some hours to grasp how the tool functions before achieving optimal results. It’s not that easy. I’d advise thinking of these tools as a way to make you about 80% more productive. They can take you most of the way, but there’s still a portion that requires human touch. It’s about enhancing productivity rather than replacing the creative process entirely.
Can you share some examples of how people can creatively use it for various purposes?
Rory Flynn: You can use it for little things, even if it’s just a background or adding a textured layer to enhance your website. Need an icon or want to create a textured background for text? Midjourney makes it easy. You can add a little flair to your website or design patterns for different purposes. It’s about getting creative with the tool and using it for small enhancements rather than expecting a finished product right away.
Possibilities of AI and Making Money
Are people making money using Midjourney or designing AI images?
Rory Flynn: Absolutely, 100%. There are numerous ways people are monetizing it. Entrepreneurs and small business owners are taking advantage of Midjourney by selling patterns online, designing T-shirts, and more.
The beauty is that it’s all free to use, and while you can’t copyright it directly, people are finding innovative ways to create value. One of my LinkedIn connections is building branded stock photography for businesses, providing a consistent look and feel for their marketing efforts. The possibilities are endless.
“Entrepreneurs embrace Midjourney by monetizing creativity online.”
Rory Flynn
Can you share your experience in using Midjourney for email marketing?
Rory Flynn: In my previous agency, Midjourney proved to be extremely beneficial for email marketing. Email format is generally small, and Midjourney allows you to convey your message effectively with images.
We found it easy to slot into email marketing campaigns, especially when dealing with short attention spans. For instance, if you’re promoting a product like a soda, you can use Midjourney to create images that better align with your messaging, making your emails more impactful than traditional product photography.
You can’t directly sell when it comes to email marketing. So, making your message flashy and attractive becomes essential. It’s about being super creative with the tool, solving design-related problems, and finding unique solutions.
Are people actually making money by leveraging Midjourney to create graphics?
Rory Flynn: Entrepreneurs and small businesses are utilizing Midjourney to create graphics for various purposes, including T-shirts, mugs, and even wall art. The ability to identify popular trends on platforms like Etsy and Amazon and recreate them with Midjourney offers a pathway for monetization. While there are copyright considerations, the potential for building print-on-demand stores or selling branded stock photography is substantial.
What advice would you give to those exploring Midjourney for the first time?
Rory Flynn: My advice would be to start small and get creative with it. Don’t expect a finished product right away, and invest time in understanding the tool. Explore different use cases, experiment, and see where it takes you. The possibilities are vast, and the tool is constantly evolving.
Does AI, and the potential misuse of AI-generated content, concern you?
Rory Flynn: It does scare me a little, Kripesh. The ease with which AI can generate lifelike avatars and manipulate content is a bit unnerving. Deepfakes are a reality, and it’s a concern from both an artistic and societal perspective. Recognizing AI-generated content is crucial, and that’s where public awareness and education play a significant role. Understanding the tools and their capabilities allows us to decipher between reality and generated content.
I’m optimistic about the future of artists and designers. AI takes away mundane tasks, allowing creators to focus on their craft. Designers, in particular, can leverage AI tools like Midjourney to amplify productivity. The creative process remains in the hands of those who understand the nuances of composition and design. Designers can inject AI tools into their workflow, making the entire process more efficient and opening up new realms of creativity.
Midjourney has stirred quite a buzz in the design community. What’s your take on the recent backlash from some designers on Twitter?
Rory Flynn: It’s true; there has been some resistance. I often find myself thinking about it in a two-step process. Change is inevitable. We saw it with the transition from horses to cars, and now it’s happening in the creative space. People have the option to embrace the new tools or resist.
It’s similar to the early days of social media skepticism. Some resisted, but eventually, everyone hopped on the bandwagon. Designers need to recognize that AI tools like Midjourney are here to stay. Rather than fighting it, they should explore and understand these tools. Talented designers will always rise to the top, even with the enhanced accessibility of design tools.
It’s like getting on a ship – it’s sailing, and we need to decide whether we want to be on it. The floor has been raised, making design accessible to a broader audience. It’s a matter of adaptability.
How do you see the future of these tools, especially in the realm of AI-generated content?
Rory Flynn: The trajectory appears to be moving towards video. We started with text, then images, and now video seems to be the next frontier. Platforms like Runway are already exploring AI-powered video production. As technology advances and data input increases, we’ll witness an explosion in creativity, potentially leading to AI-generated films and productions.
Deepfakes have become a topic of concern, especially regarding misuse and societal impact. What are your thoughts on the rapid advancement of deepfake technology?
Rory Flynn: It’s a double-edged sword. While I feel conflicted about showcasing how to create deepfakes, it’s crucial for people to understand the possibilities and potential risks. Awareness is the first step towards responsible use. Recognizing AI-generated content helps individuals become more conscious consumers, similar to understanding retargeting on platforms like Facebook.
You recently spoke at the Affiliate World Conference. What’s your experience been like, and what sets this conference apart for you?
Rory Flynn: The Affiliate World Conference is unparalleled. The energy, the people – it’s an eye-opener every time. I love the diversity of businesses represented. Every conversation leaves me inspired and eager to solve new challenges. The environment is unique, fostering a sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere.
What’s the one thing that you’ve learned from the Affiliate World Conference?
I’ve had people come up to me with something I said in my presentation and ask me questions with their spin on it. It just makes me realize I’ve never thought of it that way! So, whenever what I say is applied to a different business model like SEO or Google Ad Campaigns and it doesn’t work, it always gets me excited to solve their problems.
For instance, I didn’t really know what affiliate marketing was until the last time I attended this conference. So I’ve been finding anyone I can and trying to understand what it’s all about. Now, this whole new world of affiliate marketing has been exposed to me and I’m mind-blown! I could literally write a book on all the things I’ve learned here.
Describe your experience at the Affiliate World Conference in one word.
Rory Flynn: Insane. It’s just insane, in the best way possible. I love it here.
As we wrap up, any final thoughts or tips for our audience exploring AI and tools like Midjourney?
Rory Flynn: Embrace the capabilities of AI, but also understand its limitations. Use these tools for small jobs, enhance your productivity, and keep evolving with the advancements in the space. The future of AI is vast, and Midjourney is just a glimpse of what’s possible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rory Flynn’s journey through the world of Midjourney AI is pretty cool and shows how things can change fast. He got into AI just a year ago and now knows a lot, especially about using it in everyday business tasks. His company, Systematiq AI, fixes problems in businesses using AI, and Midjourney is a super helpful tool for that.
Rory talks about being careful and doing things the right way with AI, like not copying other people’s stuff and understanding the rules. He also gives easy tips for using Midjourney, whether you’re new to it or know a bit already. The part about making money with Midjourney and using it in emails is interesting and shows how it can be useful for small businesses.
In the end, Rory’s story about AI and Midjourney is not just about fancy technology words. It’s about being smart, understanding the rules, and using AI in a way that helps businesses and people. As we look ahead, Rory’s advice is simple: use AI, know what it can and can’t do, and keep up with the new things happening in this cool space.
