What kind of make-up I need?

I'm starting to get more involved in changing my whole style and one thing is the make-up thing. I'm African American but my skin tone is light skinned. I'm not too bright but i'm not dark skinned either. I have the most trouble finding the right shade for me... Do anyone know of any foundation that would match me? I don't wanna use liquid but seems like I have one in liquid that okay...but it never looks right. I was wondering is there other products i need along with the liquid foundation? And what about mascara? Ever time in the pass when i tried to apply to the bottom, it would never get on my lashes and smir under my bottom eye... Basically I need to know everything from scratch. From foundation to protection stuff to eye shadow to blush & bronzer.... eye lashes too.. all that good stuff. I need to know a list of all the make-up i should own and use everytime i apply make-up... thanks in advance. I hope someone can help me!