Help with backlit subjects

I am having this problem with both my X100 and X Pro1: when I try for a subject that is backlit, say my wife seated on a fountain bench with a lighted fountain behind her, etc. the subject seems very dark in the viewfinder, while the background looks blown out.

I don't recall this issue with my 7D, and I can't tell you if it is a viewfinder issue or a sensor issue (or an operator issue) since I usually take steps to remedy the problem, or avoid the shot altogether.

Any tips or similar experiences with backlit subjects? Note: no flash on the X Pro1, and I would not want to use flash anyway...

Thanks.