Why I Chose Apple’s Most Powerful Laptop
The 16” Apple M4 Max, 128GB RAM, 8TB SSD
As a professional videographer, photographer, and creative director from Humboldt County, California, staying ahead of the curve with technology is crucial for Tex Kelly Productions. Recently, I upgraded to the 16-inch Apple MacBook Pro with the M4 Max chip, 128GB of RAM, and an 8TB SSD. This powerhouse of a laptop has already transformed how I work, and I’m excited to share why it’s a game-changer for professional editing and creative workflows.
Designed for Professional Editing with DaVinci Resolve Studio 19
DaVinci Resolve Studio 19 is at the core of my video editing process as it is the go to for professionals, and the MacBook Pro’s performance is unmatched. With the 40-core GPU, this laptop handles 4K and even 8K footage effortlessly. Color grading, motion graphics, and real-time playback are smooth and seamless—even when working with complex timelines loaded with effects.
The 16-core Neural Engine accelerates AI-driven tools like object removal, smart masking, and facial refinement, making my workflow faster and more efficient. Export times are lightning-fast, cutting down on waiting so I can focus on storytelling.
Some of my workflow on Davinci Resolve. I love using a five screen set up.
Unreal Engine 5.0: Creating Without Limits
When it comes to working in Unreal Engine 5.0, the MacBook Pro shines. The 128GB of unified memory ensures that even the most demanding 3D scenes load quickly and run smoothly. Whether I’m crafting virtual environments for clients or exploring new creative frontiers, this laptop handles high-poly models and complex lighting calculations with ease.
The Liquid Retina XDR display brings every detail to life, making it easier to spot subtle imperfections and perfect my designs. Coupled with the ProMotion technology for a 120Hz refresh rate, the visual experience is incredibly fluid and immersive.
Blender: Sculpting, Animating, and Rendering
As someone who often incorporates 3D elements into projects, Blender is a key part of my toolkit. The M4 Max chipprovides the raw power needed for real-time sculpting and high-quality rendering. Simulations, whether it’s fluid dynamics or smoke effects, are processed quickly, enabling me to iterate without delays.
The 8TB SSD is a lifesaver for managing large project files and textures, keeping everything at my fingertips. With this much storage, I no longer have to rely on external drives as heavily, which simplifies my workflow and keeps me mobile.
Lightroom: Perfecting Every Shot
Photography is another cornerstone of Tex Kelly Productions, and Adobe Lightroom plays a significant role in my editing process. The Liquid Retina XDR display ensures that colors are accurate and vibrant, while the wide color (P3)gamut helps me maintain consistency across devices.
Batch editing is a breeze thanks to the 16-core CPU, and the unified memory architecture ensures I can toggle between Lightroom and other apps like Photoshop without experiencing any slowdowns. This fluid multitasking capability is essential for delivering high-quality work on tight deadlines.
Why I Love This MacBook Pro
Unmatched Power: The M4 Max chip handles everything I throw at it, from video editing to 3D rendering.
Future-Proofed: With 128GB of RAM and 8TB of storage, I’m set for years to come.
Mobility: Despite its power, this laptop is portable, allowing me to work from the field or the studio with equal ease.
Incredible Display: The Liquid Retina XDR display makes editing more precise and enjoyable.
Seamless Integration: macOS works beautifully with my other Apple devices, streamlining my workflow.
A Tool That Matches My Vision
At Tex Kelly Productions, I strive to tell stories that resonate, inspire, and captivate. As a professional wedding videographer and photographer, and as a videographer serving all the cities in Humboldt County, I need tools that can keep up with the demands of my work. The 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M4 Max chip is more than just a laptop—it’s a partner that empowers me to bring those stories to life with unparalleled efficiency and creativity.
If you’re a creative professional considering an upgrade, this MacBook Pro is worth every penny. Whether you’re editing videos in DaVinci Resolve, rendering 3D environments in Unreal Engine, or fine-tuning photos in Lightroom, this machine will elevate your work to new heights.
