A tip from the pro's: Simplify your photo

Keep it Simple: One of the universally agreed upon and essential rules to use when composing photographic imagery.

Always try to limit the amount of distractive elements in your photograph.  Too much distraction will divert attention away from the main theme, spoiling an otherwise good subject matter. (Of course, in many cases, photographs need some other subject matter to help identify the main attraction and giving the viewer assistance in identifying where the photo was shot.)

Angle is important too. Sometimes, just selecting the incorrect angle when composing your subject can confuse the viewer, making the main element appear as the supporting element, and vice versa.

Of course, many pages could be written on the subject, but as always, just getting out there and shooting is how we all learn.  Another reason why digital is such a great format!