Self-hosting is not recommended at all.
You can have your own server but you must be very familiar with server administration such as
- Securing/Managing your server
- Monitoring your server resources
- Installing/Managing PHP
- Installing/Managing MySql
and .....
failing to do one of them could cause you much trouble.
Naturally, an online image gallery is resource intensive and if you didn't utilize your server well soon you'll face the problem.
I understand. But I must admit I disagree with the sentiment.
It discourages the learning process.
I have had my own server for three years now. I don't host other people's websites. It is not a business. I don't maintain any vital information on it.
By doing so and making a ton of mistakes. I have learned how to setup a basic webserver with Mysql and PHP. Setup DHCPD, DNS and Open PF. None of which for people who do that everyday is remarkable. But for those who don't is a step in the right direction. When I did the original setup a few years back. I didn't know anything about the my.cnf file. This time I gained some more insight.
I don't expect to ever be some great computer guru. But I also understand the risks with having my own server. The company that I host my main website with started with a couple of kids as an after school project. Not bad for something that turned into 34sp.com. Someone along the line has to learn and make mistakes. They just have to understand that those mistakes can be very costly sometimes.
The end result of what I did should also help you to write a better set of migration instruction. In the end everyone benefits.
I apologize if the comment seems trollish in nature. It is not intended as such. I personally do not believe in discouraging people from attempting to learn.
Sincerely,
Brendhan