Tips for taking good pictures?

the best tip for improving my own pics has been using a tripod & the time delay so I can not accidentily move camera when I press the button.

There is a website that helped me when I tried to start taking better pictures.

http://www.digitaltrends.com/how-to/ten-picture-taking-tips/

It all depends on the camera. To be able to take fantastic pictures, you need a digital SLR or at the very least a camera that has manual aperture/shutter settings. Also avoid using the flash in dark scenes. Flash is a killer. Learn to use white balance, ambient lighting and adjusting aperture/shutter. I suggest going to the local bookstore and grabbing a photography instruction book.

Practice makes perfect. An taking a cheap or free online course helps.

* Learn how to use your camera one function at a time
* Check out photos in photographic magazines and try to copy them
* Be aware of the photos you are taking. Have a purpose in mind for every shot. Think like a professional.
* Check the backgrounds. Try to set up a clear and uncluttered background.
* Set up your shots. Want a picture of the kids? set them in a good uncluttered surrounding with props like an umbrella, toys etc.
* Take pictures at different angles - at a low height for kids and pets etc.
* Take lots of shots. If your camera is digital, you can always erase the bad ones
* Pick and choose. Don't just take any old pictures.

Unfortunately, the best way you can get better is with practice. Practice your composition skills. The bonus with digital cameras is the instant feedback you get on the LCD. Also, don't be afraid of looking stupid just to get a shot. If you see something that looks interesting, try shooting it. Carry your camera around everywhere, try to take at least one photo a day. There's also the Photojojo.com service that sends you a sample of your photos from 6 months before. You can link it to your Flickr account. If you want a book, I like Understanding Exposure, by Bryan Peterson, and The Digital Photography Book by Scott Kelby.