Hi Spartan,
Yes, that's what I do.
During a project I create a Working folder for that project. I place a "copy" of everything I anticipate using in a project in that folder. Then I enter PD's Preferences and set my "output folder", to be that Working folder. And now everything I do, consecutive pds saves, test Produces, etc, goes into that working folder.
When working on a project and I think I want to add that other image or clip that's saved somewhere on my rig, I find it and copy it to that Working folder. I never import anything directly from where it is stored, into PD's library. I always send a copy of whatever it is, to the Working folder, then import the copy to PD's Library.
So now as I'm working away, everything that PD needs to find, .pds files and all, is all in the same folder rubbing shoulders. And the originals (clips, images, music, etc), are always safe and secure in their home folders.
When the project is done and burned to DVD, or Produced to a Master Video File, or uploaded to a site, I Pack the project and send that packed folder to an Aux drive for archiving.
Then I sweep up the floor
, by clicking/highlighting that working folder and simply deleting it in one click. The working folder is just filled with copies (the originals are still in their place). And I don't need that pds save #122, or any of the other pds saves anymore, as the final pds #134 and everything else, is in the Packed folder. So I just delete the now unnecessary Working folder.
That's the work flow that works for me. But others may chime in here with a different, or more efficient way to manage a project, and clean up after is completed.
(Note: Want to be super safe? Make a copy of the Packed Project Folder, and store it on a second aux drive. That's what I do.)
This message was edited 9 times. Last update was at Jan 22. 2010 03:15
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