G'day CJ
By quoting a speed and aperture, I presume that you are attempting to use "M" Manual settings. This is not always a good idea when you are not -very- experienced. As you're a beginner, may I suggest a dual-solution for you to try
1)- set the camera to "P" mode and take your photo
While doing the above, note the camera's semi-auto chosen speed and aperture settings. These will vary with -every- image you shoot as the light is constantly varying too
2)- set the above speed and aperture in "M" to recreate the earlier image, but now deliberately under-expose a little bit. By doing this some colours will appear brighter (ie: they are slightly more saturated)
3)- if the above does not work for you, remember that you can always use "P" mode and use the camera's +/- button to add or subtract brightness to any scene
Hope this helps
Phil