Learn to blow the water from the snorkel as experienced divers do. Snorkels are traditionally worn on the left side of the diver's mask. That is because the scuba regulator comes over the right shoulder and both would conflict with each other. The snorkel should be attached to the outside of the mask strap rather than putting it under it. Masks may leak if the snorkel is between the strap and the head, if a keeper is not use the snorkel may be lost without warning, and it becomes uncomfortable after a period of time to have it pressed against the head.
Proper breathing is important for pleasurable skin diving.
It is important to blow as much air out of the lungs as is comfortable. Short breaths would simply fill the snorkel with waste air that would be inhaled when breathing in. A real shallow breath would not bring in any fresh air and the diver would suffer from oxygen starvation. Long, slow breaths are the key to enjoyable skin dives. The exhale should be fast followed by a deep inhale.