It's a common problem first starting out. You need to have a good exposure first and foremost. Then you need to know how to post process that exposure. Usually it's a combination of the contrast, setting the black level and adjusting the curve to satisfy your style.
Ignore the snarky stuff, they are always having an inside joke and you'll come to laugh at them sooner or later.
We REALLY need to see what you are getting and maybe a link to what you'd like to be getting in order to give you any real and effective help.