EDITING YOUR VIDEO (EFFECTS DURING OR AFTER)

So to make this real quick because my deadline is tomorrow on this project.

I have a very simple yet complex question.

Making a music video, have a ton of abstract footage (client is overseas, not a conceptual video what so ever). Most of the footage is heavily effected. It's taking way too long to edit this thing (i'm at just 30 sec of 3:54 in almost 2 weeks now).

My question is this. Should I edit the video as is (no effects), export raw edit. Then import the single mixed down clip back into FCP and begin adding effects? It's never been made too clear anywhere on the web, at least I've never found a good tutorial on a good practice or procedure to follow on this type of thing.

Help/advice/links appreciated.

attached is what it looks like so far @ 34sec in...

-mrimd

Looks like it's beyond your deadline, but if you still have questions, post back. Your image didn't get attached to your post so I can't see what you're referring to.
It will be helpful to know the format of your clips, codec, project settings, etc. if you want to address this for next time.

Well, it's not too late. I got an extra 2 weeks on the project.

I have a mix of clips, H.264/AAC and MPEG-2/MPEG 3

Project settings are 1080p HD / Stereo 48kHz / Using Proxy media on external drive.

I took advice from BenB and went with his instruction. Seems to be working out fine. If you have anything else to add to it or recommendations for optimizing clips ahead of time or anything you think would be helpful, I'm all ears. I'm more so an artist and have little expertise in the technical side of video as of now.

Attached are just some looks I have going on now. It wouldn't allow any video...

Thank you

And suddenly I don't see my post. Why did it vanish?