More important than gear is getting the right training from the start. One of the finest instructors on the planet, and my favorite in California is Robert Arak who owns
www.ScubaTude.com. Most instruction is started out on your knees and very little stress is put on getting neutral. I have nothing bad to say about any of the other shops in the are... only super high praise for Robert and his crew. It would be worth paying for your class all over again if it means that, especially if you want to make this a permanent hobby.
As for BCDs, my favorite is a hybrid called the Zeagle Express Tech. Whatever BCD you go to, make sure it has or you can add a crotch strap. Nothing stabilizes a BCD on a diver like a crotch strap.