The flash is not working

This is for Trish's question. Try switching to any mode other than automatic, turn off the flash, and press the shutter button. Did the camera take a picture? If so, many cameras have a safety feature that prevents the flash capacitor from charging if the case is opened. This is to lessen the chance of electric shock. They usually use one or two of the screws along the perimeter of the camera to complete a circuit that lets the processor know that the case is closed. Verify that all the screws are in place and tight along the perimeter of your camera. If you're missing a screw, try using one of the others to replace it.

If they're all there, the next thing to check is the batteries. The brand that you're using may have reached its shelf life, or just may not have sufficient power to charge the flash capacitor. Try a better brand, or better yet rechargeable NiMH batteries.

If better batteries didn't help, then the flash tube or its circuit is probably at fault. This is difficult to replace, requires some soldering, and should only be done by a trained technician as there is some danger of severe shock. Recommend contacting the support section of the website of your camera's maker.