Quick answer: Immich is the leading self-hosted Google Photos alternative – Docker Compose on a VPS, data stays in Germany.
Related
Self-host on VPS: Order VPS · NexoraHost · nexorahost.com (Frankfurt · GDPR · NVMe)
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How much storage for Immich?
Photos/videos dominate. Plan NVMe + offsite backup. 500 GB library ≈ that volume + ~20% overhead.
Which VPS for Immich?
At least 4 GB RAM (ML). Comfortable: 8 GB + plenty of NVMe. CPU helps thumbnails/ML.
Mobile apps?
Official Immich iOS/Android apps with auto-upload. Server URL + API key.
Backup strategy?
Postgres dump + upload/library volume. Snapshots alone without DB are incomplete.
SSL and domain?
Caddy/Traefik in front, A record to VPS. Never expose unencrypted.