I'm sure this article will be controversial. I mean, after all, how can you rationally characterise what makes a superb photograph? It's not like marking a mathematics report, where there is usually a right or wrong answer. Photography, much like every other art form, is quite subjective. Then again, I do think that there are particular factors that all stellar photographs share in common. Here's my (subjective) effort at determining them:

1.Effective use of Light- I've carefully placed this in place 1, due to the fact photography is largely all about light. As has been postulated many a time, photography actually means 'painting with light', and to become a true master of the discipline requires that search for and comprehend light in a similar manner that you read and understand language- Metaphorically, it truly is one of the linguistic blocks of picture taking. When taking a photo, great professional photographers will evaluate the direction along with the quality of light. Is the subject side lit, or back lit? Is the light source hard or soft? Should I set up the image so that it is low-key or high key? According to the answers to these questions the emotional feel and aesthetic of the image will change drastically, therefore switching its meaning. To offer you an example, examine a few classic photos taken of jazz clubs in low light. Typically they're low key in character and they build a very distinct aesthetic. Experiment with light so that it supports the meaning you are hoping to convey in the image.

2. Stellar Composition- As with great art, great photographs are apt to have a feeling of compositional form and balance that's attractive to the eye. As a starting point it's a good idea to know the basic rules of composition, including using the rule of thirds. After you have learned them though, don't hesitate to play around with them and break the rules. It's a way of creating your own unique style, and who wants to be tied to rules anyway?

3. A Sense of Timing- Take a look at the work of Henri Cartier-Bresson, the undisputed master of street photography, and you will probably notice that, as well as having complete mastery of composition, he was also a master of timing. He understood how and when to foresee what he called 'The Decisive Moment'; that phase in time when most of the elements of the image fit in place and when the emotional pitch of the story is at its peak. Excellent timing is important in photography. Practise being patient, and remember to try to foresee the right moment at which to engage the shutter button.

4. A Clear Subject- Wonderful photographs generally have an extremely clear notion of what the primary subject of the photograph is. If you find that whenever you frame an image the subject is unclear then try removing any needless elements. Many times simplifying the image is the best way to improve it.

Try experimenting with these various elements to find out what works for you. Don't forget you only get better with plenty of practise. Good luck!