Standard Editing Post Process

WdBNikonD3100

I live in Johannesburg, South Africa, and I'm new to the forum. Nice one Moose, thank you. I can see myself spending alot of time here. I've had my D3100 for awhile now and I experiment quite a bit, but I find that I enjoy macro photography and the odd portrait, mostly of my wife and kids the most.
Two questions if I may.

When I look at published prints, I find the colors to be really bright, vivid and saturated (sky's deep blue with lots of cloud detail for example). Family portraits seem to have an almost vintage look. Even when shooting in vivid mode, I cant seem to achieve the same effect, and I'm sure it must be done in post. Can anyone give me some pointers on some standard editing that gets done in post to give your shots that little something extra (hope that all makes sense)?

Also, I want to create a custom signature to add to my pictures; something graphically designed and a bit more than just a embossed text. I use Photoshop Elements 10. Any pointers on how to do this will be greatly appreciated.

Looking forward to your comments. Thanks all.
WdB

azee7

I also want help with that.