The background of a picture is dark and underexposed when using a flash.

To avoid dark backgrounds when taking a picture of your subject, set the camera to use the Slow Sync flash mode. This setting illuminates your subject with the flash and keeps the shutter open a little longer (by slowing down the shutter speed) to allow ambient light to brighten the background.

NOTES:

• It is possible to take very good hand-held photos with the Slow Sync mode. However, since a slower shutter speed is used, the image is more susceptible to blur because of camera shake. Consider using a tripod if you experience unwanted blur when using the Slow Sync mode.
• When using an external flash unit, another method of illuminating both foreground and background is to use bounce flash. This is done by tilting the flash head upwards to bounce the light from the ceiling.