Not a first timer but this is the first time i try autoflowering. I have been growing my own stuff for some years now. Started outdoors but temperatures in these latitudes get brutal in the summer which makes choise of seeds rather small and the apropriate ones have a tendency to make big tree-like plants which complicate the procedure for obvius reasons. So I got a lamp and Im not really going back. Got these seeds from a souvenir shop because there was nothing else left never mind my favourites. Germinated after 2 days no problems there and after 10 days planted in my custom made soil (3parts coco 2 part pearlite and the rest organic matter with some vermiculite) in 50 lt breathing bags, they had become proper young plants growing their third node of true leaves. Thought it was a bit fast but I was told it is normal for auto plants. Light was 18/6 half power very close to the plant bacause sativa dominants tend to stretch. Fresh air blowing 24h and the temperature was barely under 28C. I consider this an achievement because outside was 35. Sorry but no pics at this stage.
Looking great buddy! I'm a beginner myself, so take my words with care. But i chopped my autos like i chopped my photos and it was fine (as soon as all are cloudy and there is a sprinkle of amber). So i'd say do the same as you like your photos.
dont let them go to the amber side too much. i put mine to the dryer with 10% amber and when it was dry after 6 days the trichomes were half amber half cream and it had more of a stone than a high.