Steve - the Nikon dSLR cameras are very capable. Check the position of the mode dial:
The image above has it set to "P" or Program mode. Change it to "AUTO" and take a picture of a well lit scene (preferably outside in the daytime). You should get a properly exposed image. If the mode dial is set to "M" or Manual mode, the shutter speed is probably too low, and the aperture either too small or large if the image is dark or light, respectively. You'll have to turn the knobs on the front AND rear to adjust BOTH shutter speed and aperture (f-stop) to find the right combination of exposure time and aperture opening allowed into the camera to suggest motion (more blurry with a slow shutter - or more sharp with a fast shutter), in addition to DOF or depth of field.
You may have a similar issue when set to "P". If you are in this mode, the camera will attempt to determine the best shutter and aperture settings for you. You can veiw the settings chosen in the view finder. Likewise, you may override either shutter speed or aperture changing the aperture OR shutter speed control knobs. The camera will automatically change the other - to provide a properly exposed image.
Review the manual here. Page 39 details the mode dial and how it works. Page 18 discusses the
"Digital Vari-Program" modes depicted by the icons, and the "AUTO" label. These modes should be avoided, unless you are happy with "snapshot" type pictures. The most creativity will come from using the camera in one of the other modes: M,A,S or P. Taking the time to learn them will greatly increase your enjoyment of the camera and resulting images.
I hope this was a good starting point for you & good luck!
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