RAW files are getting bigger and PSD-files are getting huge! Working with those files takes a lot of computer power and RAM. 64bit OS gives you the possibility to work with 4 GB RAM or more - but do you really need that?

I realize this is a completely subjective question, but how many GB RAM do you RAW-shooters see as the right number for smooth and effective PS work?

I have 16gb of ram in my workstation and frequently use a huge chunk of it processing even my 5DMKII files (And they're not the biggest I work with). But then I err on the heavier side of post processing as the work I do is fashion/commercial. As soon as you start building up the layers the ram usage shoots through the roof. I wouldn't say no to 24/32gb of ram if I had the option, unfortunately 16 is as high as I can go.

I have 2GB in my MBP but that's just my little portable. I opened up one of my 5D2 files i've been working on out of curiosity and the performance was absolutely laughable. But then again, i'm incredibly picky with how I expect things to run. Someone else may find it perfectly acceptable.

Wrong question, or more exactly the wrong answer alternatives.

The correct answer is: "As much as your OS and computer can handle"

I have 4GB of RAM in both my computers, and constantly wish I had much more ...
things slow down the longer I sit & edit

and wallet. my motherboard supports 64GB and 8GB DIMMs are too expensive right now, esp the registered ECC ones which are the only ones this motherboard takes. i have another motherboard that maxes out at 12GB and that is what it has in it.

Herb...

Kaj E wrote:
The correct answer is: "As much as your OS and computer can handle"

Had Win XP 32 bit, now have upgraded to i7 920, Asus P6T and 3 x 2gb 1600mhz ram. 2 x 1gb in dual channel is fine, 6 in tripple channel is much, much better. I can use up to 24gb on my P6T.

When you're working with 12GB you probably doing something with movie making 3D and stuff for that matters... but usually DDR are slow 1600Mhz or less

I prefer fast memories, so Im using corsair 6GB 1866Mhz...

You can use 4GB and do quite a bit. However, if you're demanding serious action out of the computer, I'd max out the ram.

I currently have 4GB in both of my computers and using Lightroom I max it out regularly. My one computer that supports 12GB of ram is only 32 bit so it doesn't do any good and my computer that is 64bit only supports 4GB of ram.... What a predicament.

Kaj E wrote:
Wrong question, or more exactly the wrong answer alternatives.

The correct answer is: "As much as your OS and computer can handle"

+1

Where's the box for 16Gb minimum!

My present computer has its max 4GB. My new computer will have as much as I can afford.