Wanting to get a Ball Python?

I have questions but don't know if im asking the right people so experienced snake owners only. Can you really use newspaper for cage substrate? I've read somewhere that because they're nocturnal they don't need a cage light is this true? Which is better live or frozen/thawed mice? Which is better for the snake, an under the cage heating pad, heat lamp, or heat rock? Do i need some kind of temperature or humidity control system for the cage? And what's the difference between buying from a breeder than petsmart, petco, etc?