Is 32GB of RAM overkill for photo editing?

32GB is the sweet spot, not overkill. Photoshop and Lightroom will eat RAM if you give it to them, especially with modern high-res cameras (24MP+), lots of layers, or heavy brushes. 16GB works but you’ll hit the swap file sooner, causing stutter and beach balling. If you’re editing RAW files or multitasking, 32GB lets the computer breathe and delays the need to upgrade for years.