Nikon Flash EC vs. Background EC

Hey all!

I have a Nikon D750 and have been stumped on something while using my speedlight (SB-700).

While using the SB-700, it seems that the Flash Exposure Compensation settings work perfectly; adjusting +/- does impact the amount of flash placed onto my subject.

However, it seems like the Exposure Compensation (not flash) setting does not make a difference while I’m using my flash. I was trying to get more exposure in the background while doing a portrait in a dimly-lit room at a theme park today, but was mot able to adjust background exposure using the Exposure Compensation setting.

Anybody have any ideas?

I have attached two sample files, and will try to attach more to show a little better, but I was trying to get the door behind my subject to look as it did when I shot the door alone (first picture). I adjusted Exposure Compensation + and - several stops, but the result. are the same exposure as the second picture.

Anybody have any idea if I have a misunderstanding of the settings, or any idea if I’m doing something wrong? Thank you all in advance for any help you can offer!

Two more photos showing no change with different exposure comp settings!

What mode was your camera in?

I was using aperture priority and matrix (entire frame) metering. Any suggestions you have, please let me know! I entirely could be making a very simple, stupid mistake.

I can't speak to what adjustments your Nikon was making (I'm a Canon guy). However the best bet when doing this kind of work is to shoot the camera in manual mode and the flash in auto. The primary reason is consistency in the base exposure. In aperture priority mode the camera is going to re-meter each shot and a minor shift in framing can cause shifts in the base exposure. It's easy enough to change the base exposure by adjusting the shutter speed up or down. Sometimes automation is more work than it's worth in the long run.

I find it much easier in such situations to go full manual so the ambient is controlled by shutterspeed and the flash by power setting at a fixed apperture

Thank you both for the tips! That makes complete sense.