I would use the image backup for 2 reasons:
1) Since it is a laptop, i would like to keep access to references to hidden partitions for recovery
2) You want to keep all the drivers and software already installed. If you do a clean installation, you might find yourself looking for a driver for a device that is not even on your manufacturer's website!
So yes, better do an image and later uninstall all the crap that you do not need.
Norton Ghost can do the same yes.
And since you have it already, a piece of advice:
Try and make an automated image backup every now and then (i have a scheduled weekly image). In case ANYTHING goes wrong... no need to panic! 10 minutes away you are back to your system working like before! No frustrations, no loss of time! If you have the space, go with the backups!