[FrankenMauser]

Photography is all about the lighting and color balance.

Good lighting, and from the right angles.
(The subject is too complicated for this thread, but there are many ways to achieve different effects with just a simple drop light.)

Color balance can be an issue with modern cameras that try to auto-balance, but don't understand what they're pointed at. To rectify this, it can be quite helpful to shoot against a neutral grey background. (A hint of blue in the grey helps some camera brands balance better - I recommend painting a poster board with Dutch Boy's "Technology Blue" {it's a neutral grey, with a slight hint of blue}, and seeing if it helps improve your photos)

Of course, the pros do all the manipulation themselves. Letting a camera use "Auto" mode will almost never produce good photos.