How can server performance impact the loading time of PHP scripts, especially when dealing with image galleries?

Server performance can impact the loading time of PHP scripts, especially when dealing with image galleries, as slow server response times can lead to delays in fetching and displaying images. To improve loading times, optimize server resources, use caching mechanisms, and consider implementing lazy loading techniques to only load images when they are visible on the screen.

```php
// Example of lazy loading images in PHP
echo '<img src="placeholder.jpg" data-src="image1.jpg" class="lazyload" />';
echo '<img src="placeholder.jpg" data-src="image2.jpg" class="lazyload" />';
echo '<img src="placeholder.jpg" data-src="image3.jpg" class="lazyload" />';
```
In this code snippet, the images are initially loaded with a placeholder image, and the actual image source is set using the data-src attribute. This allows the images to load only when they are about to be displayed, reducing the initial loading time of the page.