So there's this cat in the window...

[Izzie]

And it faces East. So whenever I want to take a picture of this perfectly composed scene, I get a lot of back light.
Here is an example picture, taken a few years ago.



What can an amateur photographer do with just a point-and-shoot digital to keep the subject from turning black?

I can adjust the levels on my camera in manual mode- including exposure/light/dark.

I was thinking of making a reflector with tin foil or something?

[ronaldhanko]

I use a reflector all the time, Izzie. LiteDisc makes fold-up reflectors and translucent discs in all different sizes and even makes holders for them. They are wonderful in the field because they fold down to a fourth of their full size, and can even be used as a background. Most photographic stores sell them, as does Amazon.

LiteDiscs

[Izzie]

Thanks for the link Ron, I'll check those out!

Would crinkled tin foil on some cardboard not compare at all? I'm all about saving money.

[Izzie]

I can change the ISO on this camera- would that help?

[Becca]

I'm of no help, but I just wanted to say what a cutie kitty!

[Izzie]

Originally Posted by Becca

I'm of no help, but I just wanted to say what a cutie kitty!

Thank you, she's over the Rainbow Bridge now- there's a thread about her in the Pet Depot. (felines past and present)

[Call_Me_Bob]

hmm...

when i do sr portraits i use a piece of white foam core that you can get at the dollar store. i dont know how well it would work on a point and shoot, but have you tried a flash? that might not work, because you dont have an off body flash. but its worth a try.

[ronaldhanko]

A flash will help - you can use it at just enough power to add some lighting. Crinkled foil on cardboard works great - I still use it at home. Changing the ISO is not going to help, not all by itself.

[Izzie]

Awesome, I'll have to give this all a try.

[Anisa]

Originally Posted by Izzie

Would crinkled tin foil on some cardboard not compare at all? I'm all about saving money.

You could also use car reflectors - those panels people put in their car windows to shield out sunlight. Actually some of professional reflectors look very like car reflectors sans price and bulkiness.
Changing ISO might not help because there is big contrast a subjects (the kitty is dark and the window is light), but flash would work. Some cameras with an auto flash wont let you fire a flash if there is enough light tho.
Cute kitty!