printing in PS6

[Nold]

I've just finished a picture in PS6 and I wanted to print it, but the print was very dark, almost black. I think the reason for this is the difference between the colors the screen can show and the colors the printer can make. I tried to get this right by adjusting brightness and contrast, but I lost a lot of details and the color balance (if there was some) is completely gone.
Is there a way to adjust the screen to the printer (a noname screen and a hp photosmart 1000), or do I have to buy better equipment which has these color profiles I hear so much of ?? And why does a picture from my digital camera print exactly like it is show on the screen ??
I hope someone can help.
By the way: A great page !!! There should be more like this.

[negativespace]

Did you try using levels to adjust the darkness. It is more precise than using the brightness/contrast command. Do you have to convert your image to cmyk before you print? Some printers also have color management that you can adjust. You might have to play around with those settings. When you print in PS6 there is an option called print space in the print dialogue box. You might have to make adjustments there also.

[Nold]

Thank you ! I'll try it at the next opportunity