Here's my shot...whether or not I'm qualified is a different story.
1. Stop calling yourself a newbie or anything related. You're learning like everyone else.
2. Forget about Photoshop when you're shooting and do it right the first time.
3. Ignore #2 and keep in mind that some great work comes when pp is considered when shooting.
4. Learn and love Raw.
5. Always keep charged batteries on hand.