Photoshop Lightroom 60 MB Raw files How much Mac Mini internal SSD storage needed?

[Rik Guns]

I am a photographer working with 60 MB Raw (sony alpha) files. A shoot can include up to 250 of such files that I upload in photoshop and lightroom on my iMac. It is getting too slow. I want to buy a Mac Mini with the 4MB chip, 16 GB memory. I already have 2 external SSD cards (2 TB and 4 TB) to connect. My questions: 1. Will 16 GB memory be enough or should I go for 24 GB? (Not cheap). 2. Must I opt for the 1 TB internal drive instead of the standard 512 SSD? (Internal SSD extra capacity is very expensive at Apple).

 

[MajorFubar]

16GB RAM will be enough. 250x 60MB files is 15GB, for which a 512GB internal storage is giving you plenty of room for. Plus you said you have 2TB and 4TB external storage. Don't overpay for huge amounts of internal storage if you really don't need it, when Apple will SA your wallet in broad daylight for the privilege.

 

[Ray2]

I’ve worked with the same files. As you’ve seen, they are resource intensive. Given Photoshop, I’d consider 32gb ram a minimum. As far as an internal, it’s a function of how tight you want to go. With 512 move as much as possible to a fast external. I prefer 1tb on a desktop, work internal, move my completed work to a WD BN850 in an OWC 1M2.

I’m also looking to upgrade as my those files bring my M1 Air to its knees when I start batching 60mp files through AI routines. I would configure assuming Adobe will increase its use of AI as well as its historical tendency to write sub-optimal code. I’m leaning to waiting for an updated Studio as I'm still on the fence to which 60mp camera I’ll get.

 

[Fishrrman]

16gb of RAM won't be "enough".
Nor will 1tb of storage.

You need 32gb or 48gb of RAM, and 2tb of storage...

 

[OldITGeek]

I use Lightroom not PS, but my Z8 creates big raw files, I have a 48GB Mini with 2TB storage for working files, then I have a 16TB Raid external drive to keep my files on.