Yes it pretty much records by default. Really easy to use.
You are 100% right about the range of value, and I will definitely start with a midtone background next time. It was kind of an after thought here. Value is something I frequently have a problem with. lol When I first started painting a few years ago I did the opposite. Everything was all darks and dark midtones no highlights. I'm still working on the balance. I kinda skimped on the hair and there definitely should have been some darker darks there.
Thanks for taking the time to check it out.