This build is for photo editing with Lightroom and Photoshop CS3. I probably will start to use the video capabilities of my Canon 5D3. This is what I have so far. The power supply, CPU cooler will sort themselves out later.
CPU - Intel Core i7-3770K 3.5GHz Quad-Core
SSD - Samsung 840 Pro Series 240 GB
HD disks - 2 x WD Green (WD30EZRX) 3TB
Case - Antec P280
Nothing wrong with Green drives for the work you're doing. Green drives, as far as I know, aren't fixed 5400 rpm drives. They are able to rev up when required.
However, if you're going to be copying large chunks from one drive to another on a regular basis, go with a 7200 rpm drive.
What I really need help with is the mobo, memory and video card.
MOBO: I have decided to go with a 1155 socket and Z77 chipset. I have never overclocked ...But I think I'd like to OC this new build because if one can get better performance for free, why not?
Because you don't need it really, and if you don't know how to do it or don't know anyone who does forget it.
Memory: I want 16 GB of DDR 3 RAM. I am clueless about memory. In light of the fact I'd like a mobo with easy OC features that will permit me to OC an i7 3770K at 4.2 GHz is there any type of memory that will work better? I'd pay no more than $150 for it. Will 4 sticks of 4GB work better than 2 sticks of 8gb?
From ppbm5.com I've learnt that low voltage RAM modules are more stable when overclocking. Typically you get 1.5V, but some say 1.35V works better. You might want to look into that.
In general, you might want to populate with 4 sticks. Though, I'm not sure the performance difference will be noticeable in the applications you're looking at.
To be honest, I would get at least 32 GB RAM if photo editing is your thing. If I had to save money, I'd reduce the CPU to an i5.
Video Card: I own a Canon 5D3 that shoots video. I definitely will get in to video some time soon. But I don't know what video card I should get. I most definitely do NOT play video games. So I can skimp here I think. But I DO need 2 monitor support.
I thank you in advance for any help.
The integrated graphics card (HD 4000) can usually drive two monitors (up to 3 based on chipset - find a mobo that can support it), but it depends on what resolution you want. In general, I'd say a GTX series (the best you can afford) that is supported by Adobe CS is good. Nvidia is a requirement for Resolve as well, if you want to go that way.
However, if video isn't a big thing, but only a sporadic activity, you don't need a graphics card. The HD 4000 supports H.264 and MPEG-2 natively, with hardware acceleration for playback.
Hope this helps.