Since I live in the same County as the inmate I'm wanting to send written Mail and photos to, it is still cheaper to use third party agencies or is it cheaper to just send them myself?

There is the cost of the supplies (stamps, paper, envelopes, etc.) PLUS the cost of your time makes the third-party option feasible. Either way, the cost is very similar, and people like our service because it provides a layer of security as your address is not displayed.