One of the most important things for any person that is trying to capture that perfect image... is exposure. Making sure the picture is exposed right. Exposure is simply how light or dark the light is around, in front of, or behind your subject that you are trying to photograph. The ultimate goal is to have your subject with just a bit more exposure then they background. What this will do is draw them out of the background and create separation. Now, when using natural lighting, what you want to do is make sure your settings on your camera allow for enough light to properly expose the subject you are trying to reach. Often times you can get a good exposure using your automatic settings on your camera, but you can learn how to change your exposure so your camera doesn't have to guess what you are trying to take a picture of.
If you are interested in learning more about exposure, and the exposure triangle, so you can get out of using auto modes and get the most out of your camera.... let me know, I will be glad to set up a workshop and pass on this wonderful knowledge!!