Painting is all about communicating ideas in a visual way, just like writing is about communicating ideas through language. We all know that the ability to use language doesn't make you a great writer. It's similar in painting. A bit of talent won't make you a master artist.
If you want to become a skillful painter, painting lessons are a must. To be a good all-around painter it's very important to have a solid foundation. You must understand the basics like composition, lighting, perspective, color theory, brushwork techniques, and so on. Without all this know-how it's nearly impossible to advance beyond the amateur level.
With the right instructions all this can be learned relatively quickly. Painting lessons don't have to be expensive or time-consuming to be effective. In this time and age, you have many possibilities.
The best way to learn is from a master. Of course, such masters are usually not readily available and don't come cheap, so let's look for alternatives.
One of the best and most inexpensive alternatives are DVD lessons. There are many DVD painting lessons out there, but not all are made equal, so be careful what you choose.
The most comprehensive DVD painting course that I know of is Learn & Master Painting with Gayle Levee. I highly recommend it to all aspiring artists. This is the only painting course you will ever need.
Learn everything you need to know in order to become a skillful painter. If you want to move beyond the amateur level, oil painting lessons are a must. This will get you started.
Painting with acrylics is in many ways different than painting with oils. Acrylics are water based and dry pretty quickly. Learn what you need in order to start painting with acrylics. You'll see, it can be both fun and rewarding.