Shannon would be most helpful on this subject.
Do you have any manual capabilities with your camera? i.e. setting the shutter speed (measured in fractions of a sec), white balance, or aperture (F/stop).
The sun can be your best friend or biggest foe. A good rule of thumb is to try and keep the sun at your back so that it illuminates your subject. Also, mid-day shots aren't always the best. IMO morning and evening shots are the best. You have softer light to illuminate your subject and make it stand out. If you read the basics, then I am sure you are aware of the 'rule of thirds.' Very good technique for setting up a more evocative picture. Also, instead of standing and shooting your subject, try squatting down and getting shots looking up at your subject. I have found this to be a decent way to fight the "pictures just don't do it justice" syndrome. Makes the subject appear a little larger.
Try to find interesting angles and ways to frame your shot, and always keep in mind where your light is. I have found the morning and evening shots give you more vibrant colors and a softer feel with all the shadows. Shooting into the sun is a good way to get your subject to turn out as a silhouette. It is all about trying to make your subject stand out.
www.dpreview.com/learn/
good site to learn some basics