If you're just getting started in photography, the veritable plethora of rules, terms, and settings can be a bit overwhelming. And while it's important to build up your knowledge of all those things, this great video offers some more practical advice.
Kai Wong doles out some very pragmatic tips here, many of which will teach you how to think and how to grow as a photographer. Perhaps the most astute advice is in regards to both shooting and sharing. First, take a camera with you whenever you can. Not only will your eye and skills improve, but you'll learn to find shots where you might not have seen them before. Second, while you may shoot to your heart's content, be selective with what you share. When I first started, I would dump tens if not hundreds of pictures on the Internet every time I took my camera out; if the shot was vaguely acceptable (or if I convinced myself that the viewer could magically see past the image's failings to my intention), it went online. Nowadays, only the soundest images go up and only one at a time.
And if you'd really like to dive in, be sure to check out "Photography 101: How to Use Your Digital Camera and Edit Photos in Photoshop!"
Kai Wong... 'nuff said! =)