You might consider a long term plan. See if there are free/cheap "design you own" landscape classes at a local nursery, botanic garden or agricultural extension agency. Contact the local universities. If they offer degree in architecture, a graduate student might offer to draw up a plan for you and it go into his/her portfolio.
Generally, a yard is divided like a house--with "rooms."
Long Term:
Create the "living room" between the pool and the pool equipment. I'd put up a pergola and have the BBQ, outdoor living in that entire area- from the pool decking almost to the house. For flooring, I'd put in either a deck or pavers for future access to pool lines.
In the north part of the yard, I'd keep "yard" for pets and kids. The storage shed: sometimes the best way to make something disappear is to call attention to it. Give it a fresh coat of paint in a color that blends in better with nature or the house. I'd put up a short (4 ft) fence jutting from the southeast corner of the shed about 3 feet and then running north the length of the shed to hide those trash cans and other things that need to be stored outside. Then, I'd run a paver pathway from the pool deck to the shed, put a couple of big pots of color by the doorway to the shed. Maybe even put a window in the shed for natural light.
On the north side of the pool, I'd extend the hard surface about where you have the bench, big enough for two nice chaise lounges and an umbrella. Accent that again with big pots of color.
Those are just suggestions if it was my yard. You might have different needs altogether.
Short Term:
For $400, I'd pull out the hedges, trim up the crepe myrtles and other trees along the fence. Then, I'd see if there was free mulch anywhere. If not, I'd have mulch delivered-cheaper than bags. Then, I'd spend some money on some color. It's almost fall, mums will be available soon. A cute cushion and pillows for the bench, new cushions for the papasan chairs too. I think the bistro set is too small for the space. Put the papasan chairs together at the edge of the concrete patio with an umbrella in between. Now is a good time to buy an umbrella, end of season sales are good right now. I'd fence in the pool equipment-that can't cost too much. There is a post on TFP where someone painted theirs to look like an aquarium- cute, cute.
Privacy: If code allows, you might be able to add height to the entire fence with a lattice top. In lieu of that, a "green" fence is a good consideration. Trellis, etc.
I live in N. Central Texas, so my climate is way different. I am also a minimalist, so I like consistency in the type of mulch, color, etc. I also like plantings that serve a purpose-native and well adapted that don't require much care and attract wildlife. Others have a real knack for mixing colors and textures and a lot of design elements or yard decor, but that's not me. Also, we live in a 1950's ranch, flat roof, so geometric design influences me.
Browse DIY and home decorating sites, watch landscaping shows on HGTV. Browse Craig's list for good deals on patio furniture and decor.
Good luck and keep pics coming.