The Digital Photography School DPS is one of the greatest resources if you're looking to join the ranks of amateur photographers and start taking your snapshots to the next level.  As someone looking to hone his skills, I frequent this site all the time. One of the better posts I've encountered is "21 Settings, Techniques and Rules..." by Darren Rowse.  Its a fantastic post that uncovers some of the basics of photography.  I took some classes back in college (although I was at a business-centric school), and reading each of the links in this post either jogged my memory or taught me a new technique. If you have any in learning more about your camera and how to turn typically bland shots into ones fit for a frame - here is a great start. Happy shooting!