Top Ten Photo Tips Plus
1. Keep it simple.
Just like the old saying, "Keep it simple, stupid!" the bells and whistles are nice, it might help to get a good basic setup that you are comfortable with. The bells and whistles come in handy, you can get a setup with them, but at least be comfortable with the basics. It can be frustrating to miss a shot because you are looking through a 200 page manual.
2. Be bold.
Do not allow yourself to be paralyzed by fears about correct film, correct settings, or correct social policy. If you are afraid of upsetting someone by taking their picture, just go up and ask if it's okay. Ask them to sign a release and offer a print in return. Go out on the edge - you can get some nice shots by trying something new. Being bold is different than being stupid - keep that in mind.
3. Be quick.
Just like the old west, get the shot off quick. Practice getting used to the feel of the camera, so you are not burdened by messing with settings. Mr. Murphy loves it when you miss a photo op because of fiddling. A good case in point is Ansel Adams "Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico."
4. Hold It Steady
A big problem with many photographs is that they're blurry. Avoid 'camera shake' by holding the camera steady. Use both hands, resting your elbows on your chest, or use a wall for support. Relax: don't tense up. You're a marksman holding a gun and it must be steady to shoot.
5. Move in closer.
Crop out a lot of background "noise" by getting in closer to the subject. This goes well with being bold - Don't walk up to a lion to get a close up of a cavity.. 
6. Consider Variety
Shoot more than just one kind of image. Put Landscapes, people, action, etc. in your album. Don't forget about the candids of friends - they can always bring a smile at a low point.
7. Focus on your subject.
Practice shooting with different apertures and look at the results from learn how depth-of-field effects your photo. You will find that a smaller depth-of-field (and smaller f-stop #) focuses all the attention upon your subject. This is great for taking a picture of your kids or pets, subjects stand out against a blurry background. Likewise, you will find that a greater depth-of-field (bigger f-stop number) will make everything from here to eternity appear in focus. This will help make those landscapes fascinating and lovely to look at.
8. Be picky.
I hate it when I get a shot and don't look around the whole viewfinder first. Try to avoid "noise" - excessive junk in the shot. Move to a different location or angle. If there is a scrap of paper on the floor, move it first, the outcome will be much better. 
9. Put The Sun Behind You
A photograph is all about light so always think of how the light is striking your subject. The best bet is to move around so that the sun is behind you and to one side. This front lighting brings out color and shades, and the slight angle (side lighting) produces some shadow to indicate texture and form. 
10. Use Proportion
A popular technique with artists is called the rule of thirds. Imagine the frame divided into thirds, both horizontally and vertically, like a Tic-Tac-Toe board. Now place your subject on one of the lines or intersections. Always centering your subject can get dull. Use the Rule of Thirds to add variety and interest. 
Anything, Anywhere, Anytime:
That is a good motto if you want to get some good shots. The best photo ops most generally pop up when you are the farthest from your camera. You can thank Mr. Murphy for. Anything from old buildings, bright colors, long shadows, sport events, reflections in water puddles, etc. can make for interesting shots.

Light:
After all is said and done, the main thing that photography comes down to is light. If it is from sunlight, moonlight, on camera flash, studio strobes, etc. If you can control how light hits the film, you control the photograph. Ok, so that is a rather bold statement, but it is just my opinion, and everyone has their own, so don't get too offended if you don't agree with it.