I am keen to take a photo and enter it into the 'photo of the week' competition. I am already seeing how it makes for a good way to focus learning. I have spent the afternoon looking at still life photos and getting a feel for the genre.

I am looking around my house but I am really overwhelmed by all the possible places to take a photo... I am not sure where to begin, hoping to get some tips and advice.

What sort of lighting should I be looking for? Is there a particular time of day that is best, or is anytime okay because it is indoors.
Can I take the photo outside, again do I need to stick with twilight hours or can midday light add to the composition?
What sort of techniques are used to ensure a clean background when working inside a house?