I have the lowest level mac and can do A LOT re: photos.....about $1200.....unless you are editing in Final cut Pro you do not need the top of the line.

Have always had a mac ...and love it. No viruses. Love the imagery. The way it works. And the fact that you can go into any Apple store in the world and walk right up to the Genius Bar and get help if they have an opening or book an appt online. Plus you can sign up for the One-to-One for 99 bucks and get 1 private lesson every single week of the year should you so desire. The best deal of the century. Yes....that is 52 private lessons for 99 dollars but this must be purchased at the time of computer purchase. Even if you use it 3-4 times, it is worth it. I wait until I have a bunch of questions then make my appt then go in for my lesson.

If you are a visual person which I think you are.....MAC is the way to go. I would not even consider anything else. my 02