This thread is really starting to take off! I can offer painting advice as well. I am a decent painter, meaning I think my stuff looks good. But my brother is an award winning painter, and I am always picking his brain. I have never posted pictures before, but I am considering starting. I am the same username on BGG.
When I started a few years back the Reaper learn to paint kits came with a white brush on primer (they might not anymore?) I do highly recommend brush on primer when getting started, it will give you an idea of where the brush goes on the mini.