Macro Ring Flash produces Really dark pictures?

I just got a flash system for my Nikon D3000. I got it specifically for the central flash, but it also happened to come with a macro ring flash. (you know, a round flash that connects to the front of the lense)
Whenever i use it, however, it produces Really dark pictures, and i don't know why… What am i doing wrong, and what do i need to do to produce better pictures with it? What kind of lighting is needed?

More information would be helpful. I have the Canon version of yours, and depending on the iso, f-stop, and shutter speed your dealing with, they can be problematic.

Edit: Yes Pookie might be right. Or maybe your flash is going off either before or after your shutter opens.

More info! Please!

Upload a photo to http://www.flickr.com/...flickr.com to show to us.

p.s. You are probably too far from the object.