I have as well, despite it being pretty expensive to maintain, updating my own sites is so much more of a "stable growth" feeling and far less stressful than working excessively on a massive social media site that might shutter overnight, limit me, or over-moderate me. I am quite sure that building and maintaining my own sites has cost me a lot less than what it would cost to keep promoting posts on social media.
Now if only wen hosting companies weren't seeking to increase pricing and upsell us all the time, we'd have something really epic! har.
You touched some true points here. Your site = Your rules. And it's not that hard to have a photo/video gallery for family/friends to see or even contribute.
Hosting prices are on the golden age, not see any issues here. But well, depends on each requirements.
Now if only wen hosting companies weren't seeking to increase pricing and upsell us all the time, we'd have something really epic! har.