I had a friend who was a photographer. If you're still interested (I know I'm late seeing this journal), the best way I can describe to get your feet wet in photography, that I learned from my days watching her...is find a local photography/camera store...something more specific than just a Walmart or something and walk into the place. I'd look at digital cameras that are recommended for beginners at first. If the person or people working there know what they're doing, you can explain that you're new and getting your feet wet...that you just kinda wanna have "baby's first camera" (lol). It's an investment, though...but in terms of making a career out of photography, you'd be wanting actual cameras rather than relying on even the nicest of cellphones to do the same thing.

Definitely something to consider, yeah.