How do you take high quality pictures?

I have a 7.1 mega pixel Olympus camera SP-550UZ. It's not one of those cheap rectangle ones, it has like 18x optical zoom and a bunch of great features. However whenever i take a picture it seems like the quality is lacking, i learned that natural light is better than bulb light so taking pictures is best during the day, and my quality settings within the camera are set at the highest. What am i doing wrong that is not producing the quality i want?

If you think the type of camera you own makes all difference with the quality of your images, it's not surprising you're experiencing disappointment.

The only thing I can suggest is to get a camera with manual mode. If your camera has manual mode, study the fundamentals of photography. If you are studying the fundamentals, continue to practice all you can. If you're still having difficulty creating an image worth while, try hiring a tutor, or go to school and study photography.

Your quality settings are not as important as the iso, shutter speed, aperture, and with all digitals white balance is key. I would reccomend getting a book on photography basics, which will give you an idea on setting up the camera. Not being able to change the lense will limit the quality since it is an all purpose lense.

Im not familiar with that camera, but if it has a manual mode or shutter and aperture priority modes, decent shots can be had. If it is just fully auto, good luck!!

The camera is just a tool, it is the eye of the photographer that makes the photo interesting. The setting on the camera are also tools used to get the exact effect you want. Make sure you have focused properly, are using the correct exposure, and have a clear identifiable subject. Mega pixels have nothing to do with quality! Don' fall for the sales mans pitch on that one!

I've never liked taking photos in midday light. The light is too harsh. I've found that dawn and dusk are the best times to take outdoor photos.

Also....keep the zoom to a minimum and avoid cropping (if you can).

more you zoom
Less it is detailed

Make the camera and 7.1 and take pics by trying not to zoom more than 6x