It's been a long time since I really played with a camera but here is what I learned back then. Slide film has far more vivid colors than negative. You can scan it into a digital, if you want, or you can print it. Colorful slide film has an ASA of about 64. The higher the ASA the grainier the photo. I shot a lot with 64 slide and I think I used 400 negative. One of my favorite shots was on a Cayman dive trip in about 1976. The Caymans were remote at the time. I pointed my camera toward a full moon late one night with palm leaves on the left side of the photo. I can't remember if I used a tripod but I don't think I did. Anyway, the moon was beautiful and there was just enough light for the green palm leaves to be seen.
Film is wonderful when you are skilled in lighting and composition. The best way to learn film is through trial and error. However, light and composition can be learned with digital if you take it very seriously. Digital frees you from the wait till the film is processed and allows you to instantly see your photo. If the light and composition are correct, it will be a pleasing photo. You will soon learn, through trial and error, what makes good photos. Then go to film, become familiar with it--because it is quite different than digital--and get that Nikonos or whatever is out there that you like.
You may find that you like digital better. I have. I've played a little with my wife's and then dove with a friend's digital. I like the versatility and the ability to print my prints. I have a lot to learn about printing but it's fun.
Digital printers are a whole other topic.--hmm, what does everyone use?
rodney