"Pictures with the human element are always more interesting" is a common blanket statement about photography. Have you ever

It's ok to take tourist pictures! --NYC Photo Safari

Don't try to copy the style of others is another truism offered to budding photographers.

Why not? Isn't copying the highest for of flattery? Although there is a sentiment within the arts to always try to be unique and individualistic, this comment fails to understand that copying the work of other artists will help you better understand your own thinking process as well as theirs. Perhaps one of the most valuable lessons out there IS to copy other photographers. Through this process, you will begin to develop your own point of view and your own style.

Don't ignore bad photos they can teach you.