Well, I can only tell you this: there will be damage. However, I love the sun and tanning probably as much as you do. So here are my 2 cents.
If you want to build a base tan you can do it in very, very small increments. This means going outside and tanning for 10 minutes one day, 15 the next, and so on and so forth. Apply tanning oil, but look for one that has SPF of at least 10 or 15. If done consistently, you should be able to tan without burning within a few weeks. Try not to go out into the sun during its peak hours where the UV rays are strongest (like from 11AM-1PM or 2PM). Always remember to keep your skin moisturized before going out into the sun by applying tons of moisturizer and drinking a lot of water. Finally, to maintain your tan use sunless tanning methods in between sunbathing to keep the exposure to a minimum -- in my experience, the "maintenance" of a tan is what causes girls to go overboard.
I, for one, am very careless with my skin in the sense that I go to tanning beds and the beach every so often. But, I DO NOT tan my face. I use sunless tanning lotion to balance out the tan (like Christian Dior's or Xen-Tan) because I don't want wrinkles on my face and the skin is very thin there. I also wear foundation that has SPF in it. As for my body, I just keep it very moisturized to avoid burning or it darkening too quickly.
The girls on this forum are absolutely right about the damages the sun can cause, but it's kinda hard to resist at times especially if it's your hobby. I have found this is the "safest" or better said less-damaging manner of tanning your body. HTH and good luck!
