Python is 100% the way to go for your project! Honestly, dont worry about C++ yet. Python libraries like PyTorch make image recognition super accessible. If you want to keep costs down, just snag a NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 12GB GDDR6 for your rig. It is an amazing value for training models on a budget and will save you tons of money compared to cloud GPU rentals!

Honestly, stick with Python. For a portfolio piece, speed isnt even the biggest hurdle, it is getting the logic right without burning out. I remember when I first started, I tried to handle everything in C++ and wasted weeks debugging memory leaks instead of actually training models. Total waste of time.

• Use Python for the heavy lifting with libraries like OpenCV.
• If your laptop is sluggish, dont blow your budget on a top-tier server. A used NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 6GB GDDR6 is totally enough to get that image recognition running smoothly.
• Check sites like eBay for deals on older hardware so you have money left for hosting your project. Just build it. Getting something functional by June is way better than chasing theoretical speed that you dont even need yet.

^ This. Also, dont ignore C++ if you want real speed! I tried optimizing an old model recently and realized Python just hits a wall eventually. Definitely learn both for portfolio magic.