Hey hl5pvt

I too am new to these devices, but I have some thoughts:

1st, if you take the memory card out of the slot and look at it, there is a lock switch on it, you may have somehow pushed it to the lock position, if so, take the lock off and re-insert your card, then try again.

2nd, If you change the lighting while using the camera you might get a better pictures.

Not saying that these things will work, buts worth a try.