Contrary to popular belief, gorgeous, sunny days are a photographer's worst nightmare. You can't take proper photographs if you or your subject is standing directly in the sun's path. One or both of you will be uncomfortable, and the sun's glare can make your subject difficult to see in the finished photograph. It causes awkward shadows, uneven highlights, and may cause your subject to squint when they face your camera. If you can, choose late evening or early morning when you shoot outdoors.
While you are traveling, photograph memorable souvenirs that you have purchased on-the-go. Having the back-story on these things, such as where they were purchased or obtained, brings new depth to the items photographed. This photographic memento creates a lasting memory of the context in which you made your purchase and makes it even more meaningful when you return home.
A lot of cameras that are digital contain built in flashes that automatically turn on when the lighting is dim. This is good for random, candid shots, but if you want a professional look, invest in a flash that is external and offers more lighting. Look at your camera and determine whether or not it features a "hot shoe" near the top; this is where the external flash unit attaches to the camera. If your camera can accommodate the external flash, bring it with you to the camera store to find the right model.
By focusing your camera before taking the actual picture and then switching the angle or moving to the side, it will cause the subject to no longer be the central point in your photo. Centering a subject in a picture is an expected tactic and may detract from the interest of the photo. An off-centered shot is likely to appear more interesting in the eyes of the viewer.
Even if you don't know your models, make sure they feel comfortable. Many people are camera-shy and avoid pictures at all costs. Be polite, talk to them for a bit, then ask to take their photo. Let them understand that photography is not a way of invading their privacy, but it is rather an art.
There's no hidden skill required to become a great photographer. Experiment with the settings on your camera to see how they affect the photographs. You don't need to feel you have to preserve every photo you take, especially with digital cameras being so prolific. You can get better by taking pictures of what you see and later judging it to see if it can be better.
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