The autofocus didn't work correctly. There are
some subjects that are difficult for the autofocus to
lock on. These include: glossy or reflective surfaces, black objects, subjects behind glass or wire mesh, flames and smoke, excessively bright light within the picture area.
First focus on an object at the same distance as the desired subject. Then aim at the desired subject and press the shutter release button.
(p. 42)
The picture is too dark.
The flash was blocked, (e.g. by a finger).
Hold the camera correctly, keeping your fingers clear of the flash. (p. 15)
The subject was out of the working range of the flash. 
Shoot within the flash working range. (p. 35)
The flash mode was set to Off.
Check the flash mode before shooting. (p. 33)
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