I would suggest you investigate classes in your area. There is quite a quantity of learning initially (lenses, exposure, development, printing) and having someone to guide you through these stages is a great help. The critical part is that someone can look at your negatives and prints, and tell you how they can be technically improved.(posted 9341 days ago)Regarding formats, I sometimes sugest that people should start in 5x4 format. I am only half joking. Unfortunately, goood cheap gear is not common, at least here in the UK. This is another reason for finding classes: they might have a variety of formats for you to try, including darkroom gear.
I have always suggested that people start with fully manual gear. Preferably with a separate light meter. I realise this is partially prejudice on my part. But even if you go automatic later, you will then understand what your camera is doing.