>>942934If you're looking to learn, and eventually sell stuff, then a DSLR and shooting in RAW format is probably your best bet.
But since this is /out/ you might want to think about getting a decent quality superzoom or bridge camera to start with. They're smaller and easier to carry while you're doing stuff, the better ones will shoot RAW and have a manual mode, and while there isn't as much room for learning they'll have you taking nice photos right away. They're still useful even when you do upgrade because you can take them places you wouldn't want to lug a DSLR and a bag of lenses. I've exibited a bunch of stuff I've taken with my old SX130 while cycling or kayaking or skiing.