After 3 years of self taught photography, the main thing I have learnt is to plan a little for your potential photographs and to remain open when you arrive to a new location.
When I set out to get a specific shot, I never get the one I am after. However I do get a picture that was't planned and I love it!
Now I just get out there and have fun, trying to find images that nobody else has and to be as creative as possible.