glad to know we have a new grower! good luck to you! you're right seeds are expensive. the seed bank I go to has good prices and lots of free seeds. give them a try.  www.justcannabisseed.com  yes you can grow photos with autos as long as the light is on at least 18hrs. I wouldn't try autos when you flip the lights to 12/12 for photos , autos like longer light hours. good luck!