starting new need help
For gear, I like this list: http://www.desktop-documentaries.com/cinematic-documentary-gear-package.html

For software (I assume for editing), Premiere Pro is very capable and easygoing on beginners.  Download a trial and see how you like it!

Bear in mind, that both take time to learn in order to produce quality results, so unless you're a quick study, or your project is very simple, factor the learning curve into the cost of doing it yourself.