nsclcctl -
Yes there are. You can get several books, go to several websites and see how the pros do it. And if you think that following the step by step instructions will give you a pro class, show winning model, you're out of your mind.
OK, now that I've gotten most people here pised off, let's look at this realistically. You do need to know certain technics to hide seam lines, fill gaps, paint details, weather panels, etc. You also need the skill to make it work, ie, make a filled and sanded seam, not look like, well, a filled and sanded seam.
There are some people who produce top quality, prize winning models on their very first attempt, and some folks actually do win the lottery, get the connection? The only way to get the results you're after is too start doing it. Read as much as you can, or as much as you like, decide on what technics you want to experiment with, and start building. As you skill develops, you'll be adding more and more "details" and your modls will look more and more like the ones you see on the websites and in the magazines.
Here's a free "book" that should help:
http://www.testors.com/hobbyist_guides.asp
Just start building and adding to you knowledge base and skill set as you go.
Archer out.