[DannyCox]

The camera does have autofocus and autogain, but both can be switched to manual.

As has been mentioned, proper lighting is the key. I also only shoot with manual focus and minimize camera movement. I also rarely zoom in or out while I am shooting, unless I am planning a zoom to dissolve for a scene transition.

Common rookie mistakes are too much panning and zooming while shooting (we've all been there). Keep the shot clean and consistent, and if you want to change angles, pause, get your new angle and shoot again. It's the basics of "in camera editing" and speeds things up for you in post.