I notice a lot of amateur pics usually do not come out very well. Either they are out of focus, badly composed, blown out by the flash or sometimes all 3.

 The best way to improve is to start with lighting. Fill the place you shoot with lamps, torches, anything which produces light. Point them all towards one empty wall, preferably opposite a window. Place the camera to the side of these lights rather than in front of the lights, 1, you won't cast a shadow in the picture and 2, the light will make a more interesting picture.

If you have to use a flash, tape a little bit of thin paper, like tracing paper, over the flash to cut it down. And do remember to take it off when you are done.

Next, keep an equal distance between the camera, the subject and the background.

Learn how to keep a steady hand. Hold the camera with both hands and squeeze down the photo button, you don't need to bash it.

Finally, take more photos and choose which ones to keep and which to throw away.You may love them all but you only want to show off the best.

Happy shooting