Composition

Once you've learned how to translate the image in your mind into a photograph you can achieve with your camera's settings, you may need to think about how you want to compose that shot.  There are many elements of composition, but here are some that apply for beginner photographers.

How does your photo flow?

• Fluid Path: Does your photo include leading lines (such as a road or stream) or include a foreground, midground, and background (which leads your eyes from one level to another)?
• Jarring Path: Does your photo include multiple, well-spaced elements for the eyes to bounce around between, with no lines (must be well-placed)?

Have a balanced photo, and consider including elements at the edges to keep the eyes focused.

Are you considering rule of thirds or a center-weighted image?  Look for a balanced shot that focuses the eyes where you want them to go.

Perspective: from what angle are you shooting?  Did you consciously make that choice?  What are you trying to convey with that perspective?  Is this the most flattering angle for a portrait?

Minimalist vs. Maximalist: keeping a calm, serene background with a single subject vs. a powerful, chaotic, crowded image with elements competing off each other.

Color: Keep in mind color theory--complementary (opposite on the color wheel), analogous (next to each other on the color wheel), different colors in similar shades, or the same color in different shades.

Fill The Frame: cut everything else out but the subject

There are many more elements of composition to consider, but this is just a starting place.  Don't get overwhelmed; embrace what makes you a photographer!

Sources for this post: Digital Photography School here and here