p.2 #1 · Which Mac mini to get for photo editing (from window user)
I think your plan to stick with your Macbook Air until it no longer serves its purpose is a wise one. The M2s are no slouch. When the time comes for you to replace the Macbook Air, I think you might be a good candidate for the base model of whatever shiny new thing Apple puts out there. If M1-4 set any precedent, the base models are surprisingly capable and offer excellent value for money.
The lot of us here are very good at spending money, especially someone else's money