Again great first cook! You can start charcoal different ways... Newspaper about two large sheets should do it. You can also put a little bit on cheap salad oil on the newspaper to make it burn longer. I like to use the paraffin starters that Weber makes. Two of them under your chimney (no newspaper required) will get your fire going in no time. They are very economical. They work great! Buy the way did I see a dog in the first pic? Can't wait to see your next cook.