GlassDeviant

First of all, if you don't have one, get a DSLR (or traditional SLR if you can find film these days). A consumer digital camera isn't well suited for low-contrast photography. it can be done, but it will never compare to a photograph taken with an SLR. Second, do not ever use a flash. Use a bright lamp if you need more light, shaded if there is too much glare off the subject, and use the f-stops and the lighting meter to adjust the amount of light taken in by the camera. Once you get the hang of it, you won't even need to make a conscious effort to take a snap.