Need lot of advise, please

[B. Buxton]

I'm working with a new camera, nikon D50 with a nikon 55mm f2.8 macro AF lens, and its another one of those hair pulling learning experiences that one ( me anyway) just cannot figure out no matter how hard I try and retry. So if you all can look at these photos and give me some advise on what I need to try it would be very appreciated.
I have stopped the aperture down a great deal and slowed the shutter speed to match to get a more even focused picture but I still can't seem to get everything to look sharp, especially the screws. So please fire away and help me if you can.

Thank you,

Bill

Had to delete the pictures they were causing web site problems, sorry