Here are some helpful hints when taking pictures.

Take Lots of Shots - Remember that you are using a digital camera.  It's almost free due to the fact that just because you took the picture it doesn't mean you have to print it.  You can easily delete the pictures you don't want or that don't come out well.

Keep the Camera Still - Camera movement is still the usual cause of blurry pictures. If you find you are unable to keep the camera steady, invest in a small tripod or try leaning against something to help steady yourself.

When to Use a Flash - Most cameras have an auto flash but you may not need it on all the time. If at all possible try using "natural" light.  If this isn't possible, using regular lamps and try different ways of muting the light to get the effect you are looking for.

Picture Posing - It isn't necessary to get someone to pose for that great shot.  Even the best portrait shots sometimes are from spur of the moment pictures.  Saying "cheese" or "smile" may only get the smile action but not the emotion.  Try making your subject laugh. It will make a much better picture.

Camera Angle - There 's nothing wrong with placing your subject in the exact center but there might be a better picture to be captured.  Even with portraits, a slightly off-center picture can give it character depending on how the subject is positioned.  One of the best pictures I have ever seen is from a mom looking down at her sleeping baby with its arms outstretched.  The baby's hand was actually in the center of the photograph and made a great visual impact.