I've got a rather basic background in Frontpage and some php using Zencart ecommerce. I'm interested in setting up a personal site with the functions listed below, and need to know what software would best be used for it. It's kind of a combo of several different types of sites so no one type (blog, forum, etc) seem to exactly fit the bill.
The site will be a general information sharing site, based on users sharing information on differerent categories, ideally via a form, but using a comment alone is possible, then having the comment posted either on that page or another page specifically for that category.
I really want something more attractive than a forum. I'd also like them potentially to add a photo which would display either with their comment or via a categorized photo gallery. I've looked through lots of CMS software, but nothing seems to do exactly what I want to do. Will one of those work or am I talking about a totally customized website?
Thank you in advance for your assistance.