From taking several pictures myself over the years (Started using a manual SLR in 4th grade), managing a photo shop with lab all I can see is its all about lighting and who does the printing/developing of your film. (Not taking anything away from atxmatt)
We would get customer with poor picture processed elsewhere They always blammed the film, the camera or themselves. I would ask for their negative and make a free 4x6 for them. Their eye lit up at the difference.
General tips:
- Shot with the sun behind you
- Have someone show you how to use fill flash
- Bounce you flash when possible for indoor pictures
- Don't try to get it "all in" on the picture... zoom zoom zoom in on the subject.