Dark Pictures outdoors, using Nikon D80/sb-800?

Question

I'm an amatuer photographer. Last night a shot a group of people like around 4-5 pm , it was kind of dark already, and for some reason I couldn't get the backgroud to be lit. The subjects were ok, but the rest was dark. I tried different settings on the camera and the flash, but nothing worked.....any help??

Answer 1

Its time for you to really READ & STUDY the Owner's Manual for your camera. Pay especial attention to the "Using Flash" section. Then READ & STUDY the Owner's Manual for the flash.

As fhotoace suggested, a couple of classes in photography will be of immense benefit.