Questions from a Newbie...
 

I am really new to quilting so please forgive any stupid questions I may ask. I want to take photos and make them into fabric for my first quilt. What is the best way to do this? What product can I use to ensure the photo fabric last a long time? Thank you in advance for any assistance with this.

there are special printer fabric sheets you can purchase- some are transfers (like decals on t-shirts) some are printed right on the fabric-like any printed fabric---you need to read the packages and find the one that fits your needs-some are washable-some are better suited for wall hangings. most will fade with time (and laundering)
you need an inkjet printer (not a laser printer)
you need to use good quality permenent ink (not the inexpensive knock off cartridges- or refill's)
you can prepare fabric for dyeing press it to freezer paper and do it yourself- but being your first time it may be best to purchase one of the ready mades- and after you have some experience you will feel more confident to experiment.
the pre-made products range in prices some come in packages of only 3 sheets--some packs of 10- visit a joannes-or a local quilt shop and see what they have in stock and read the packs---there is a new transfer one out that is supposed to make the picture softer-better and be permenent---found in some local quilt shops (the transfer ones you print your picture on the product---then iron it onto your fabric---
if you are doing a wallhanging-project that will not be laundered you have more options...for items that will be washed you need to really follow the instructions ---and use the stuff made to be washed...so read, read, read...and have fun with it-
and don't hesitate to ask your questions-the only dumb ones are the ones that don't get asked :)

I agree with other post. Good luck! No question stupid!

I agree with Ckcowl. Welcome from S CA. No question is ever stupid except the one you do not ask!!

You have been given great advice for picture quilts. Experience doesn't matter nearly as much as desire.

I use the Electric Quilt fabric sheets - they work well so far. Welcome aboard :) And ask as many questions as you want we will help all we can

welcome from se TX -- I always enjoy the questions from newbies because they are things the rest of us want to know:)

I can't add any better advice than what ckcowl posted. I will just add that "newbie" or not, keep those questions coming! We ALL learn from the questions that others ask. Welcome to the wonderful world of quilting!!

Totally agree with ckcowl.

So glad you asked this question. I've been wanting to use photo fabric but hesitated to try on my own and (unfortunately) right now cannot afford a class. (This too will pass.) I'll be re-reading these posts and following links.:)