This is very common when moving from a point-and-shoot to a DSLR. A point-and-shoot often keeps more of the scene in focus and applies punchier color automatically, while a DSLR gives you more control but also requires better technique.

Start with these basics:

• Use Auto mode if you want, but pay close attention to focus.
• Try “focus and recompose”: place the focus point on your subject, press the shutter halfway to lock focus, then recompose and take the shot.
• Make sure the camera is focusing on your child, not the background.
• Hold the camera steady and press the shutter gently to avoid camera shake, especially if you’re zoomed in.
• If your photos look less colorful than your old camera’s, try a more vivid Picture Control/Picture Style setting.

If photos are too dark or too bright, there can be several causes, so it helps to identify exactly what looks wrong: blur, bad focus, dull color, or exposure.

Most importantly, keep experimenting. Early bad photos are a normal part of learning. A beginner-friendly DSLR book or guide can also help explain the basic terms and techniques more clearly than the manual alone.