Q about 'macro' camera settings

[sheepherder]

I took a dozen or more pics today, using various 'settings' on this camera. It is quite dumb; only icons for settings [no proper names]; some settings remain, others change back to default when switching modes/power on/off; values are Best/Better/etc.

Anyway, I found that 'Exposure Compensation' plus values get a lighter pic without losing detail, minus values turn darker. 'Exposure Metering' Center-Weight setting is same as default; Center Spot gives a much better pic [lighter]. 'Focus Zone' Center Zone gives what seems to be the best picture for my morning vertical beige/cream background shots (pic below).

I was only interested today in lightening the picture, not concerned with the 'bends'.

Olle, if I spend time & money on cameras & picture taking, then that takes time & money away from activities that I am really interested in. Maybe I'll be more interested in photography in the years to come, but for now this is about the best I'll get.

I'll look for some gray pasteboard next time I go out.