Read Your Camera Manual
I know it seems obvious, "Read the Manual." It came with the camera for a reason. AND, it wasn't just to add some extra protection as packing material. It's there so that you can fully understand what your camera is really capable of.
Without a clear understanding of how you can control your camera, most of the rest of the tips you'll read on this website will be harder to implement. Just set aside 30-60 minutes for a little "quiet time" with your camera and the manual. It will prove to be quite beneficial in the long run.
Know the settings
Be sure that you completely understand all the settings on the back of the camera. You'll find the common functions here, like the Flash and Macro settings, the zoom switch, the menu button etc. Granted, if you have a Digital SLR, you will find a) lots more buttons and b) other settings for exposure and metering on the dial or buttons on top of the camera.
If you get through the manual and still find you don't understand what's there, read more of the articles on this website. You may also want to check into other books that may have been written for your camera. Generally, most of the Digital SLR's are covered in the Magic Lantern series. These can be found at the big bookstores like Borders or Barnes & Noble or at Amazon.com (hint, hint).
