I think it also depends on what one does. Like I said I have moved forward in a few months.  Its imrpoved my renders by just using LUX the more you do the easier things get thats for sure. Considering I was patching PNG layers together less then 2 years ago, I have made strides forward... Even though they took longer I think I was making 1/2 decent renders from the get go..

 

I know I keep throwing the word purist. Maybe thats offensive to some. Its not meant to be. I am sure there are other Reality/ LUX users and those that dont use Reality that probably work in similar fashion. Photomanipulation programs are patrly designed to work with 3D render programs.