Thanks for the replies, very helpful. Anyone have any other opinions?

I still have a few questions,
(1) do I necessary need a t4i? or can i do something like t3i/t3? The photo of the jeans I liked the guy used a canon rebel from 2007
(2) do I need any lenses? he used a Canon ef-s 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM or will using the stock 18-55mm lens kit give the same results as far as my needs?
(3) do i necessary need a tripod? the tripod recommended above is $200. kind of seems like a waste if I can just hold the camera myself lol
(4) i think I need the flash. do i need a diffuser or anything else?