RE: first timer
my advice would be to go to a reputable archery shop, preferably one with a shooting range. tell them your intentions and have them set you up with the proper equipment.
I may be going out on a limb here but for the beginner I would suggest going with a release aid. They are more consistant for the novice than using fingers and something you are probably more use to as a gun hunter. I prefer a caliper release like Scotts or Cobra.