How do I take better pictures?

[Doc Hammer]

I'm working with a Fujifilm FinePix A340 and am not getting the quality pictures I would like. Is there anyway I can get better pictures with this camera? If not, please recommend some other cameras.

Here's some examples of the camera.

I noticed that it's focusing more on the background, how do I fix this?

 

[ILM75Dodge]

I would try and keep the camera farther away form the tank and zoom in the glass adds distortion especially when too close as the camera wants to try and focus on the glass instead of whats inside

 

[ILM75Dodge]

point and shoot digital cameras are slow to focus and so you may also want to try a tripod to help steady your hand

 

[Doc Hammer]

Thanks, I'll give it a try.