What do I need to know

[KmH]

to make really good photographs?

A photograph records light. Knowing how to use light is the single most important aspect of making a good photograph.

Light Science and Magic, An Introduction to Photographic Lighting - Fourth Edition This book only covers the basic concepts, but is a good starting point.

Next a photographer needs to know how to use all the varied aspects of visual image composition.

The Photographer's Eye: Composition and Design for Better Digital Photos

With lighting and composition taken care of, if we want to stand out from the crowd we need to be creative.

The Photographer's Mind: Creative Thinking for Better Digital Photos

 

[enzodm]

I'm reading just now Light: science and magic and I confirm is an interesting lecture, including both theoretical aspects and well explained practical examples. A fun complement is The hotshoe diaries. Both bought after suggestions here, and worth them.