How do I get good resualts with a 35mm camera with limited zoom. Or do I have to use a digital or other expensive camera?

Is it an slr or point-and-shoot?

If it's an slr, you can get either a macro lens or a macro filter. Brings out the details.

HTH

Wow, that's a website in itself...
Yes you can use a 35mm camera, the resolution is far better than even the most expensive digital cameras, but it will work out expensive if you plan to do a lot of pictures.
But to make a start try this:
First get the camera on a tripod. Then you can accurately frame up and measure the closest distance you can focus down to.
If you can close down the aperture go for the smallest (which gives you as much in focus as possible.)
Shoot outdoors if the weather allows. The light is better.
Get some white card (A4 or bigger if possible) and put it around the model to reflect light into the shadows. With a little practice you'll see where it needs the shadows lightening.
Try using a pale blue or green for your background - too strong a colour will not look realistic and will fight with your model.
Put yards of film through your camera. Practice makes perfect in this game.
Its the cost of the film that puts most people off. Try to borrow a digital camera from a friend to try and practice with. Even the cheap ones will give you some idea of how to set everything up.

Good luck, let us know how you get on