OK I will try that.

Do you use the "easy" button?
Do you use the "zebra" function?

What I'm trying to use is the zebra function and when there is to much light I correct this with the spot meter to correct. But I don't know if this is necessary.

If possible can you post some stills captured from your HC7 ?

NEVER use the easy button... wish you could disable that thing!

and yes, use the zebra set to 100 (not sure if that's really best or if the 70 would be better, the 100 is just where i've settled), with the control wheel set to exposure - I noticed the AE shift doesn't seem to work as effectively as using the exposure - you can press the button, and use the wheel fairly quickly, then just adjust so the overexposed highs are minimal with acceptable picture quality. I used it to shoot a couple in silouhette with the setting sun between them for a recent wedding - worked quite well!

I'll try to post some stills if I get the chance, I've been fairly happy with the still quality the cam produces - certainly enough for family use as a dual purpose cam!