Once you cut out something that was important, back up a bit - then take your shot. That should help a bit. Sam Assuming some measure of technical competency, there are two things that separate good images from mediocre - composition and lighting. I like early morning or late evening light. That's more dramatic and makes the colours richer.
Most people tend to have too much clutter in their images.
Pay attention to the viewfinder and try walking closer and closer to the subject. Once you cut out something that was important, back up a bit - then take your shot. That should help a bit. Rolf, been a few years since we chatted. Anyway, I followed your adventure with much interest.