Just one SSD is enough, I think. For your operating system. Then a regular internal hard drive as well - a terabyte or two - for file storage.
I believe i5 is sufficient - i7 is not necessary.
But I'm talking out of my hat here. Brian will help with more deets.
No, the point is that the bottom shouldn't be affected at all. That's why I need to see a screenshot.
Your mask should be completely black down at the level of her feet.
While it makes the background look ok, her skin is still not perfect. After you do all your Levels work, you'd cool those warm areas with a cooling Photo Filter.