1. Photographer Starter / Student
- verified_userRefurbished Mac or PC, tested in-store
- storageSSD so Lightroom and Photoshop don't lag
- schoolGreat for beginners, social shooters, and students
- upgradeUpgradeable later with more storage or RAM
Collection: Best Computers for Photo Editing
Best Computers for Photo Editing
Photo editing workstations tuned for Lightroom, Photoshop, and Capture One — fast, quiet, color-friendly systems built and supported by DC Computers in San Diego, with new and refurbished options.
Photo Editing Workstation Build Paths
2. Creator / Pro Editor
- computerModern desktop or laptop (Mac or PC)
- folder_openSeparate drive for catalogs and active shoots
- monitorRoom for dual monitors
- photo_cameraPerfect for wedding, portrait, and brand photographers
3. Studio / High-Volume Setup
- desktop_windowsExpandable desktop with multiple fast drives
- cableSupport for tethered Capture One shoots
- colorizeColor-friendly display options
- groupsIdeal for studios that need local support
Why Photo Editors Need the Right Computer
Modern photography workflows are heavier than ever. You're importing big RAW files, syncing with cloud libraries, running AI-based adjustments, and jumping between Lightroom Classic and Photoshop — sometimes with two monitors attached. If your computer is slow, previews take forever, brushes lag, and editing becomes a chore.
DC Computers builds systems specifically for photo editors, studios, and creators in San Diego. Whether you shoot weddings, products, real estate, portraits, or content for social, we can configure a Mac or PC that keeps up with high-res files, fast culling, and color-accurate editing. And if you're budget-conscious, we also stock refurbished and upgraded Macs and PCs that are perfect for photo editing without paying brand-new prices.
Recommended Hardware for Photo Editing
CPU (Processor)
- speedLightroom and Photoshop respond really well to a modern, fast CPU — it speeds up exports, AI tools, and day-to-day editing.
- thumb_upMost photographers don't need a server-class CPU; they just need something snappy and consistent.
- computerWe can help you choose Mac vs. PC based on your catalog workflow and what you're used to.
Memory (RAM)
- view_in_arOpen catalogs, large PSDs, and running Lightroom + Photoshop together can use a good amount of memory.
- starWe size RAM so you can edit and export without the system slowing down.
- upgradeBecause we build and refurbish in-store, we can upgrade memory later as your camera megapixels go up.
Storage
- rocket_launchPhoto editors feel storage speed more than almost anyone — a fast SSD/NVMe makes imports, previews, and opening files much faster.
- folderWe like to separate the OS/app drive from a working "Photos / Catalog" drive so Lightroom and Capture One stay quick.
- cloud_uploadWe can add larger SSDs or HDDs for long-term archives and client delivery.
Graphics & Displays
- view_in_arMost photo apps don't need a huge GPU, but a modern graphics solution helps with GPU-accelerated features and running high-res monitors.
- monitorWe can set up dual monitors or a single color-friendly display for print and retouching.
- 4kIf you work in 4K or use AI-heavy tools, we'll size the GPU accordingly.
Optimized for Popular Photo Editing Software
We tune systems for the apps photographers actually use:
- photo_libraryAdobe Lightroom Classic – bulk editing, culling, catalogs
- imageAdobe Photoshop – retouching, layers, composites
- cameraCapture One – tethered shoots, color, studio workflows
- folder_managedAdobe Camera Raw / Bridge – fast RAW processing
- auto_fix_highTopaz / AI photo tools – noise reduction, upscaling
Tell us which of these you use the most and how big your files are (mirrorless, medium format, commercial), and we'll size storage and memory properly.
Built & Supported by DC Computers in San Diego
You don't have to guess online which computer will run Lightroom faster — you can come into DC Computers, tell us what you shoot, and we'll configure it with you. We can also take your existing Mac or PC and speed it up with SSDs and more memory, which is a great option for photographers who want better performance without buying a whole new system.
- buildCustom photo editing workstations
- recyclingRefurbished Macs and PCs for budget-friendly setups
- upgradeSSD and RAM upgrades for aging systems
- monitorDual-monitor and color display setups
- verifiedLocal warranty and diagnostics
Photo Editing Computer FAQ
Yes. A refurbished Mac or PC from DC Computers with SSD and enough memory is perfect for many photographers. We test and upgrade these systems in-store so they run Lightroom and Photoshop smoothly.
Both work. Lightroom, Photoshop, and Capture One run on both platforms. Choose Mac if you prefer that ecosystem, or PC if you want more upgradeability — we support both locally.
Yes. DC Computers can configure dual or ultra-wide displays and recommend color-friendly panels for retouching and print work.
We can upgrade RAM and storage later, or move you to a faster workstation — that's the benefit of working with a local shop in San Diego.
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16" Macbook Pro
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Benefits of Building a Pro Workstation
- Quality: High-quality components are carefully selected for durability and performance to ensure your lasts and is optimal for your exact workflow.
- Performance: With a Custom-Built PC tuned for top performance, you can enjoy seamless multitasking, quick response times, and smooth gameplay.
- Reliability: Thoroughly tested components work harmoniously to deliver constant performance for gaming and professional workloads.
- Transparency: Transparency is what sets us apart from other Custom PC Builder. You can stay informed throughout the customizing process with transparent communication and updates on your PC’s development.
- Affordability: Premium performance at an affordable price – competitive pricing provides outstanding value for your Custom PC workstation.
- Customization: Our Custom PC Builder services allow you the liberty to select everything from the processor, cooling system, and GPU, to the case design – personalizing your ideal setup.
- Elite Workstation Power: By constructing your own custom PC, you are guaranteed access to the latest technology, which guarantees supreme gaming performance, providing speed and agility in your workflow.