Airbrush help and advice needed!

I would 2nd that comment on Chicago Airbrush Supply-if you get on their mailing list, they have random specials, say most recently Halloween for 15%  off their already low prices, & selection is strong.

Regardless of your skill, buy a high quality AB (Iwata, Badger, Paasche, etc.) and a high quality compressor that you can buy.  

I started with an Iwata Eclipse and an Iwata Smart Jet compressor two years ago and couldn't be happier.  One advantage of Iwata is that if Hobby Lobby is near you, Iwata parts, unlike other brands parts, are readily available, and you can buy them dirt cheap using HL's weekly 40% off coupon (visit their web site and print it).   Chicagoairbrushsupply.com has typically lowest prices and their service is second to none IME.

I consider the compressor choice almost more important than the airbrush itself.  Almost any of the popular airbrushes (Badger, Iwata, Paasche) will be fine.

With the compressor the big choice is noise vs price. If you do not care about the noise, a general purpose airbrush is fine and can be found starting at about fifty bucks.  Airbrushing does not require much performance from a compressor in terms of pressure or airflow.  On the other hand, quiet compressors can cost you a whole lot of bucks. One compromise is to put compressor in a utility area and run a hose or pipe to your workbench.  A good regulator and filter are important, but these can be obtained seperately and added to most compressors with the correct pipe fittings.