MAKKER, I usually check mine anywhere between 1-2 weeks. Depending on my schedule for that time frame, it's tough for me to wait longer....I get so excited! Ranger, everyones basically mentioned the important things...within a few checks you'll realize what you need to do to get what you want. The only other thing I can think of is try not to put in on a small tree, if the wind blows hard enough it'll move the tree....giving you plenty of pictures of nothing. (I learned that the hard way haha)