Damian
I have a large collection of figures from many of the top painters, so although not a great modeller myself, I look at many wonderful pieces every day! My critique is (I hope) objective. I think you are going to do well with figures....
This samurai is a really good start - when "learning painting" (as you put it), the first step is being neat and precise. You have certainly acheived that. The more subtle effects will come quickly in time. I like what I see - these Verlinden resin kits can be tough to assemble so neatly, so well done.
In the next few figures you do, start doing some more elaborate groundwork to present the figure in context. I think most top painters more or less throw away the groundwork supplied by the manufacturer. Spend some time on the groundwork. A great paint job can be spoiled by the base.
It is also worth spending a few dollars on a good pedestal to put him on. After all there is a lot of effort in doing a nice figure, so put him on display in style!
I suggest you branch out soon, and get yourself a premium quality kit - Pegaso, Elite, Poste Militaire etc. They are a little more challenging, but less "wooden" in the poses. They are often better sculpted, with the painter in mind for highlights and shadows on the folds.
Overall you have done a good job on this guy. Great start!
Neil