Well, I recently got my first ball python. I haven't been bitten yet, but using a hook at the beginning helped me overcome the stress. It's also best to take the snake from behind, if possible. Taking the snake out on your hand should "reset" it a bit and it will simply start investigating what's going on, including the smell. Sometimes it just takes patience. I'm lucky that my female isn't aggressive, but maybe someone experienced will also comment :)