'Simple'
use of a reference print to perform a basic monitor adjustment - ideally
turn down the room
lighting and use a desk lamp with a daylight balance halogen or low voltage
bulb to illuminate the
print. Shield the monitor with a black card shroud to stop stray light
degrading the image shadows.
Is your monitor calibrated for accurately viewing images? You should see dark grey squares in the top 'black' bar.
Calibration Tutorial