how do i get good pics?

i have an older canon powershot sx100is 10x optical zoom 8.0 megapixels. this camera takes ok pics but i know it is capable of taking great pics of my ball python and other outdoor wildlife. anyone have any tips on how to set this up for good photo's? it has alot of settings im not familiar with. i usually use the auto setting that doesnt always look the best it can.

I am also interested in how to take better pics. For some reason I just can't figure out the right settings to take really high quality up close pictures. I have tried every setting I can and still can't get what I want. I'm wondering if I just need a better camera. I just got this one for Christmas so I hope it's a matter of user error.:snake:

Lighting is easily the most important aspect of getting great pics.
Most point and shoot cameras struggle with low light and turn out very average or worse looking pictures under those conditions.
If you can set up a light box or just an area that you can get lots of light on the subject then your likely to get better pictures than in just ambient room lighting.

I tend to use my macro and my super macro settings for up-close shots.
I also set the white balance for every photo shoot before taking pictures.
I'm far from a pro but get some killer shots now and then with patience and good lighting...

http://i968.photobucket.com/albums/a...lassMedium.jpg

I'm just getting started myself,but am finding that learning some of those other setting are a huge help,and can aid in taking some good pictures in lower light,I am using a Fuji Finepix S700,10x optical zoon,7.1 MP
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q...loodShoot1.jpg