Spraying is not really easy for a beginner. It takes practice and also some hand-eye coordination. Some people can pick it up fairly quickly though so it may depend on the person. You should probably go to your local rental and try one of their sprayers out for a day to see how you like it.

No. Sprayers are not easy for every beginner. Many people think spraying is easier than painting but it's really not. Plus, in the hands of the unskilled, a sprayer blows through a TON of paint. Feels like that $50 gallon of paint disappears before you even get started.

It takes practice and I wouldn't practice on anything that has to come out perfect. Also, would use cheaper paint. Notice I said cheaper, not cheap. There's a difference.

No reason to be scared as long as you know what you're getting into. Go for it. Try it. You could very well end up being very good with a sprayer and loving the process.

Although I don't know anyone who likes the clean up involved. :)