I actively teach lots of photography students and I cannot stress learning/knowing the fundamentals enough (the basics). Its the foundation of good photography period. I think when someone is learning and they look at other experienced photographers work the forget the the fundamentals at still be used.
NO photographer can escape using the key ingredients to make outstanding imagery. However you see so many so called PRO's here in Cincinnati who can't or won't follow this simple rule.
So learn those fundamental and your work will improve...