Sort of a noob question...

It's sometimes easier to paint the before, particuarly if there are 'hidden' recesses or if they are deep, but of course, some masking will be necessary if you use an airbrush to apply the camouflage color. Any corrections can then be made with a brush.

For the cockpit details, I always paint before closing the fuselage, but in some cases, I'll leave seat, sight, other details off until after final painting (to make masking easier).

If you're painting the gear wells aluminum, take care masking them. Many metallics are very fragile (sush as M M Metalizer) If you have a scanner, scan the lower wings where the wheel wells are, and print it on heavyweight paper. Cut out the well openings & presto ! Instant masks.

Hey, cool tip, Pixilater... Never ever thought of that! Thanks!

Or you could mask the wheel well form using the silly putty after the painting. I use it and its perfect.

usually you should paint before. but if the wells are crude or shallow it is not difficult to paint after....flexibility is a good thing. Why call for the keyman to open the door for you when the window next to it is open?....