So, what do I need to start?

There is a great video for beginners at Two Peas In A Bucket (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sVOfr3A7jCg)

Following is an example of a minimal starting kit, based on my experience and for someone who is interested only in scrapbooking pictures (no cards, no mini album, etc.)

- paper trimmer 10 to 20 dollars

- paper mat, 15 to 25 dollars

- a couple of inks  for the edges of the pictures and the piece of papers: it helps bringing all the elements together, it hides any imperfection in the cut edges and adds dimension. A black and a brown. Distressed ink by Tim Holtz (about 4 dollars ech) or chalk eye-cut inks (they cam in set of 5-6 assorted colors for about 10 dollars). In an ideal world Tim Holtz's distressed inks should be used with a special applicator (about 5 dollars) but you can use the pad directly on the edge of the paper or a cosmetic foam sponges (a dollars or two for a dozen at Walmart or Wallgreen).

- assortment of paper: although bold and elaborate patterned paper can be really tempting, stock up with subtle and muted paper sheets and assorted card stock. You will use them a lot for backgrounds and matting photos.

-  adhesive: tape runners. In the beginning it may be safer to use removable ones since they are quite forgiving. If you change your mind. you will still be able to reposition your picture or embellishment without damaging the layout. They come at about 3 to 5 dollars each. The go quickly so if you find a good deal you may wont to stock up. Some have refills but I found that all procedure too cumbersome. I prefer the 'dots' ones  because if you make a mistake you can rub away the dots without damaging the paper.  If you are planning on using vellum you may want to buy the special glue runner design for it. Do not be disappointed if it will show while you put it on the vellum: it will eventually disappear once the vellum is positioned on the background paper.

- embellishment: those can be pricey! Try to make your own with punches and cut out from patterned paper. Prefer whites, neutral (you can customize them with paint, glitter, etc.) and non tematic ones (you will be able to use more often generic travel-themed embellishment as opposed to very specific ones about New York or Paris. Definitely something to buy on sale.

- alphabet stickers for titles: try to have an assortment of colors and textures...

A good starting option is the purchase of  a scrapbooking kit where you will typically find paper + embellishments + alphabet sets.