When using still pics in Vegas 8, do I need to apply "reduce interlace flicker" to them usually? I have to get a project out urgently, which contains a lot of stills in it, and I don't have the time to play around with the settings.

Any other advice regarding using stills in Vegas would be greatly appreciated.

For applying reduce interlace flicker you can hold control key, select each photo individually, then right click and apply the setting to all selected photos at once.

Also for rendering setting you might choose best if lots of photos are involved. It will increase rendering time, but it can help a bit.

Other than optimizing photos prior to use, I think that is about all you can do in Vegas to optimize.

If your photos have fine lines - especially if you're zooming in or out - it does help to apply "Reduce Interlace Flicker". Scripts can also easily apply that to all photos. Plus scripts can also apply the "Match Output Aspect" to all photos as well (which you probably also need to do).

Thanks Jeff and Edward for your replies, much appreciated. Usually I have time to play around with settings but this time, time is not on my side, and you guys have been a great help.

As far as learning how to use Vegas goes, would you guys recommend buying Vasst training dvd's for Vegas. I have basic knowledge of Vegas and I need to add a bit of depth to my skill. Any other recommendations are also welcome.

Absolutely yes to VASST. They are the best.