The real guru replied “Oh!.. Cos i  spent 2 weeks before i managed to solve the exact problem that you are facing.”

 Okie i am no guru or expert but here is just some tips to share. may you become a real photography guru soon!

1) Shoot more at the right time
Since photography is painting with light, shoot more during the time where light is good. Typically light from 7am to 9am and 4pm to 7pm is good. Of course we have the sunrise and sunset timing. These are the tim where the light is warm creating a golden brown tone in your photos. Go shooting more often during these time slots and rest during the 11pm to 3pm timing where light is strong and harsh.
 
2) Make every shot count
I know many of us shoot digital these days. But if you always think “shoot now can delete later”, then you would be forever deleting pictures. Slow down your shooting speed, do not abuse the shutter button. Think before you press the shutter button. Would you be deleting the picture later?
If you need to take more photos of the same scene, then vary the angle, the aperture in a meaningful way.
 
3) Learn the rules, follow the rules, break the rules
As a novice, you pick up simple composition rules such as rule of thirds etc. next we should follow the rules and use them in our composition. As you progress, such rules should no longer bind you. Feel free to break the rules.
 
4) Get nearer to the subject
Try filling the whole frame with your subject especially if it is a human. This not remove distracting background but also allow you to know your subject better.The best way to get nearer is to use your legs and walk. Yes, some people may turn away if they spot you but very often they are willing to be photographed.
 
5) Know your equipment
Understand the functions and limitations of your camera. Learn to use the Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and the macro modes if you camera has them. As for limitations, understand what your camera can’t do and don’t attempt to do it. Eg shooting that little bird on the tree. The temptation to get new equipment is always there but do a self check.
 
6) Expand your knowledge
As a novice ,attend a photography course to jumpstart your photography skills and also to get to know more hobbyists. Let me know if you need a course recommendation. Go to seminars and workshops for more specialized subjects. Read books or internet forum. See what others shoot. All these help to expand your knowledge.
 
7) Partner your Hobbies
Do you like to travel? Are you a collector?  Do you dive? Then do travel photography, product photography , underwater photography! Not only it give you more opportunities to shoot but it will also increase your knowledge of your other hobby.
 
8 ) Find a mentor. Find someone whose works you admired and who is willing to guide you. Let him/her critique your works and accept the critique humbly.  In the internet age, posting a few of your selected photo on the better known forums may help too.