Dun need to be scared.
Some people passionately practice photography for a lifetime, and are still horrible photographers.
Some people, especially graphically trained designers etc, once (if - some of them never do and hate the photography module of their studies like crazy) they master the technicalities, tend to produce stunning work in less than 2 years.
A lot depends of how you approach learning.
Imagine a newb student in drums, if he doesn't have the discipline to learn all the things you wrote above, and get a good foundation, do you think he is capable of becoming good drummer in one or two years? Fortunately, for photography, you can practice anytime, anywhere, unlike drums! Imagine getting 'inspired' in the toilet at 3am! How to go unleash on the drum kit! LOLZ!
The basics of light is not difficult to learn. Seriously. Learning to 'see', identify and appreciate light in relation to photography is different, and could take years to learn.
Like any applied arts, photography starts off with a foundation of scientific knowledge. Even if you take something as traditional as say ... Chinese Brush Painting, the craftsman must first learn about his tools, how to make the ink, and understand the angel or the devil in his brush, and how to prepare the paper to be a messenger of his soul (artistic vision).
Only after years and years of hard work, does the artist find freedom, once he masters the technicalities of ink, brush and paper. Later, the artist or craftsman learns how to use that knowledge to create beautiful works.
Artistic or soulful development comes along the way...usually long after becoming proficient with his tools and medium. See, not so different from drumming. :bsmilie:
There are many good books at the library on understanding light for photography. Just choose one that's easy to read.
Remember - "Unlearning is the Most-Painful Exercise if the Basic is not set correctly as it will hampers future growth."
Would love to meet you and your kakis one day! I used to shoot a lot of live performances in my younger days. Even lie down on stage in front of the drum kit during a performance! Now old man liao!
