Need help taking outdoor pictures with a canon SD700is?

Question

When the sun is bright in the background and I am taking a picture of people - the people turn out too dark. I have a Panasonic camera that has a "Backlight" button that takes care of this problem, can't seem to find the same function in this camera.

Answer 1

For back lit subjects such as you describe, try using +2 EV. The background will be blown out but your subjects won't be silhouettes.

You might also try using the Spot Meter setting and metering off your subjects face.

Answer 2

While it is typically not advise that you shoot this way (with the sun directly in the background), if you don't want the subjects to appear dark, then turn on the flash.