So... say I wanted to go outside and try and sight/handle/photograph a few reptiles and amphibians. I've never done it before but it's been really warm outside lately and I'm sure there's some cool stuff to see.

What conditions would be prime for such an expedition? How and where should I go about it? In what manner and with what knowledge should I embark on a basic herp adventure?

Honestly, this will probably end up in me putting on something akin to a spacesuit and running away because I heard something move in the grass. But who knows, maybe I'm brave?