New To The Game | D40 | Tips & Pointers?

[RLB]

So i just picked up a D40. This is my first DSLR. I really don't have any other photography experience aside from point and shoot stuff.

The setup out of the box consists of:

Nikon D40 Body
Nikkor AF-S 18-55mm Kit Lens
4 GB SD Card
Fancy Nikon Strap

Can you guys send point me in the right direction as to where i can learn how to use this thing to its potential?

Any tips on what accessories are a must have?

Any strange quirks associated with this camera that i should know about?

The majority subject of my pictures will most likely be automotive, at least from the start. I am not limited to that though. I want to become well rounded, i am willing to learn how to shoot anything. I am trying to get into this as another hobby i can spend my time on.

Any info provided will be greatly appreciated. Thanks guys.

[Kielan]

Well really the first thing I would do is read the manual I know it sounds stupid, but since you don't really know much, it WILL help you a ton.

As far as accesories or the like, I would start by getting a lens or two.
For automotive a 50mm f/1.8 is a good lens, and considering its only $100 you really can't go wrong. I would also get a pretty wide angle lens as well like a 10-22mm or a 17-40, something like that. You can always get more lenses as time goes on.

Get a good tripod as well I can't even begin to tell you how much it will help.

[RLB]

Thanks for the info!