I guess it depends on whether you will ever want to re-edit the files or not. If not, then do as ChristerTX suggested. If you do plan on re-editting the files, then you will want to keep the originals.

Al

I had a similar issue with too much source footage taking up too much space.
The way I am going to do all my projects in the future is like this:
1. Number the tapes for each project; Tape 01, Tape 02, etc.!
2. Keep the source footage on the hard drive(s) only as long as I need them for editing! Once done editing, delete the DV files!
3. Keep original tapes with original source footage, as that will also keep the timecode and other data on the clips! Give those tapes to the client at the end of the project!
4. Save one or two finalized DVDs as original copies, so that any future copies can be made from them! Give them to the client!
5. Save all the project related files, such as audio, images, documents, Vegas project files, etc.! These should usualy be small enough to fit onto one or two DVDs. Give them to the client at the end of the project!

Following these steps, your computer and shelves would only be full while working on a project, and would be cleaned up at the end of it. You wouldn't have to need a space for all those files, and it wouldn't be your responsibility to have a backup copy of the project. If the client loses them, you do and charge all over again! Not your fault!
Numbering the tapes will help you lay them on the timeline, and also in re-capturing them if you need to re-edit.

I would suggest keeping a copy of the finished DVD on hand. The client may be in a huge rush to get more copies because he gave all of his away, and you may simply not have time to be bothered recapturing, editing, rendering, authoring, and burning again.

True, you may not get as much money simply making copies. But, consider how impressed and pleased your client will be when you can say, "sure, come by in an hour and you can pick up three more copies." You can charge a big rush fee for them and still be much cheaper than redoing the work from scratch. You'll also have a client who is sure to come back to you and recommend you highly.

Kind of a newbie question here.

What is the best way to copy your finished DVD and not lose any video quailty?

Thanks in advance!

Gary

Disc Copy. Almost any burning software has this function. It's a bit-for-bit copy so there will be no loss whatsoever.

That's great news! I was afraid of the 2nd generation phenom. Thanks Chienworks!

Gary

Gary, you're not thinking digitally yet. ;)

Lol, Chienworks. I guess I'm just an analog kind of guy. This digital stuff is amazing! Thanks again for the response.

Gary