In order to print anything you need to make sure that your printhead is in good working condition. A nozzle check pattern will allow you to check all channels of the printhead. Up to 3 missing spots per color is allowed on the nozzle check, anything more means that additional cleaning is needed in order to get the head up to printing capability.
If the nozzle check pattern is good, then the settings which you should be printing with are at least Epson Matte or SemiGlossy Paper and standard quality with Highspeed checked. If you want a better quality you can remove high speed or even select best quality.
If the image is dark and you would like to get it lighter, then you can increase the brightness on the Color controls within the advanced tab within More Options.