JP2002112104A - Digital still camera - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a digital still camera that captures plural images for compositing through consecutive shots, in such a way that the same images can be obtained consecutively, without blurs, as much as possible. SOLUTION: When photographing is instructed from an operation section 107 in a fog adjustment mode, an entirety control section 108 changes a focal position to expose a CCD 102 consecutively twice, thereby capturing two photographed images in different focal states. The entire control section 108 discriminates whether the camera body is held in the hands of a photographer, on the basis of detection signals of switches SPOD, SREM, SGRP. When the hand of the photographer holds the camera body, the photographed images are liable occurrence of blurrs by consecutive shot, thus to prevent this, the control section 108 issues a warning for fixing the camera, to an LCD display section 106a.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention improves image quality by performing continuous photographing at least twice on the same subject and combining a plurality of photographed images obtained by the continuous photographing by a predetermined image combining process. The present invention relates to a digital still camera capable of obtaining an image with enhanced video effects.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, in the technical field of digital still cameras, a plurality of consecutively photographed images are subjected to predetermined image processing and then synthesized, so that the image quality and the image effect are better than each of the photographed images. A digital still camera capable of obtaining an image with an improved image quality has been commercialized.

[0003] For example, a digital still camera "GC-X1" PIXSTER "manufactured by Victor Co., Ltd. performs continuous shooting twice while slightly displacing an image pickup device, and combines both shot images to obtain a high-resolution shot image. It has a function that can obtain In addition, this digital still camera sets two types of exposure control values in accordance with a bright part and a dark part of a subject, performs two consecutive shootings with these exposure control values, and combines both captured images. In this way, a function of obtaining a photographed image having an appropriate density from a dark portion to a bright portion is also provided.

Further, for example, an image synthesizing technique for synthesizing a photographed image focused on a near view and a photographed image focused on a distant view to create an image focused on the entire screen or an image having a desired focus state is also available. Proposed.

[0005]

By the way, in order to obtain an image with enhanced image quality such as resolution, gradation, blur, etc., and image effects, an image synthesizing process for synthesizing a plurality of photographed images having different image qualities involves: Basically, while the content of each captured image is the same, predetermined arithmetic processing is performed using data of these captured images for each pixel position. Therefore, when acquiring a photographed image for image synthesis processing with a digital still camera, it is desirable that the subject and the camera body be photographed in a stationary state.

[0006] However, since a digital still camera is a portable device, a photographer usually holds a camera body by hand in many cases, and the camera is usually exposed. If the operation is performed, FIG.
As shown in (1), since the camera angle in each exposure operation changes, it is difficult to obtain the same image.

Therefore, when photographing an image for the image synthesizing process, it is desirable to fix the camera body to a tripod as much as possible or to place the camera body on a stable stand so that the camera body is not displaced. .

On the other hand, apart from these, in the image synthesizing processing technology, in a digital still camera, a designated exposure time is divided into a plurality of times in order to prevent a blurred image caused by camera shake. In addition, there has been proposed a blur suppression imaging technique for obtaining an image with less blur by synthesizing images obtained by repeating an exposure operation a plurality of times at each divided exposure time.

However, in this case, fixing the camera body to a tripod or operating the camera shake suppression function while the camera body is mounted on a base unnecessarily complicates processing and consumes power. Because of the inconvenience, it is necessary to devise a way to activate the blur suppression function only when necessary.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and is intended to provide a digital still camera capable of obtaining an image with high image quality and image effect by synthesizing continuously shot images. It is intended to provide a digital still camera capable of continuously photographing the same non-existent image and efficiently applying a blur suppression photographing technique.

[0011]

The present invention has a special photographing mode for acquiring a plurality of photographed images used for a predetermined image synthesizing process. When the special photographing mode is set, the same photographing mode is set. A digital still camera that performs an exposure operation at least twice consecutively on a subject to obtain a plurality of captured images, a determination unit that determines whether the camera body is held by a photographer's hand; A warning means is provided for warning when it is determined that the camera main body is held by the photographer's hand during shooting in the special shooting mode (claim 1).

According to the above configuration, in the special photographing mode, when a release is instructed, the exposure operation of the photographing means is performed at least twice consecutively to acquire a plurality of photographed images. At the time of this photographing, it is determined whether or not the camera body is held by the photographer's hand. For example, detecting whether the camera body is attached to a tripod, detecting whether the grip portion of the camera body is pressed, and detecting whether the release operation is performed by remote control. Is determined whether or not the camera body is held by the photographer's hand.

For example, detection of a case where the camera body is not attached to a tripod, a grip portion of the camera body is gripped by a hand, or a release operation is not remote operation (a release operation is performed by a shutter button of the camera body). If it is determined from the result that the camera body is held by the photographer's hand, a warning is given that there is a possibility that image blurring may occur between continuously shot images.

By taking measures such as fixing the camera body to a tripod based on this warning, the photographer can obtain a plurality of photographed images for synthesizing images with less blur.

Further, the present invention divides a set exposure time into a plurality of exposure times, and aligns and synthesizes a plurality of photographed images obtained by the exposure operation with the divided exposure times to thereby set the exposure time. In a digital still camera equipped with a blur suppression shooting function for obtaining an image in which image blurring which would have occurred if an exposure operation was performed for the set exposure time, whether the camera body is held by a photographer's hand Determination means for determining whether or not the camera body is not held by the photographer's hand, and a function inhibiting means for preventing the blur suppression shooting function from operating when it is determined that the camera body is not held by the photographer's hand ( Claim 2).

According to the above arrangement, it is determined whether or not the camera main body is held by the photographer's hand, and when it is determined that the camera main body is held by the photographer's hand, the blur suppression photographing function is activated. By doing so, the blurring of the images between the successively captured images is suppressed. When it is determined that the camera body is not held by the photographer's hand, the operation of the blur suppression shooting function is prohibited, and the blur suppression shooting function is not unnecessarily activated during fixed shooting.

[0017]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a camera body of a digital still camera according to the present invention, FIG. 2 is a top view showing an arrangement of main components incorporated in the digital still camera, and FIG. FIG. 4 is a right side view showing an arrangement of main components built in the digital still camera, and FIG. 5 is a rear view of the digital still camera.

The digital still camera 1 includes a camera body 2
A single-lens reflex camera comprising an interchangeable lens 3 comprising a zoom lens which is detachably mounted substantially at the center of the front of the camera body 2. The camera body 2
Mount part 20 to which interchangeable lens 3 is mounted substantially at the center of the front
1 is provided, and a grip portion 202 is provided at the left end of the front.

A sensor 211 for detecting that the grip has been gripped by hand is provided on the surface of the grip 202. As the sensor 211, a pressure sensor that detects a pressure applied to the grip portion, for example, using an element such as a piezoelectric element, a pressure conductive sheet, or a pressure-sensitive polymer is used. The detection signal from the pressure sensor 211 is used to determine whether or not the camera body 2 is held by the photographer's hand.

A battery compartment 203 and a card compartment 204 are provided inside the grip portion 202, and four AA batteries E1 to E4 (camera power batteries) are accommodated in the battery compartment 203. A memory card MC for recording image data of a captured image is detachably stored in the card storage room 204.

A remote control receiving section 211 for receiving an infrared signal from an infrared remote controller (not shown) is provided at the upper left of the mount section 201. Infrared remote controller (hereinafter abbreviated as infrared remote controller)
Is for remotely controlling an operation related to photographing of the digital still camera 1 by radio. For example, a photographer can join a subject while the digital still camera 1 is fixed on a tripod or placed on a table, and can operate the infrared remote controller to perform photographing including the photographer himself.

When the digital still camera 1 is remotely controlled by the infrared remote controller, the photographing mode of the digital still camera 1 must be set to a photographing mode by the infrared remote controller (hereinafter, referred to as a remote control mode). The mode is set by a switch (not shown) provided on the camera body 2. A remote control mode may be set by displaying a menu screen on an LCD display unit 207 described later.

Further, a plurality of contacts ST for making electrical connection with the mounted interchangeable lens 3 and two couplers CP1 and CP2 for making mechanical connection are provided below the mount section 201. Have been. Electrical contact ST
Reads information specific to the lens (information such as the open F-number and focal length) from the lens ROM 301 (see FIG. 3) incorporated in the interchangeable lens 3 to the overall control unit (see FIG. 6) in the camera body 2. And outputs information on the position of the zoom lens and the position of the focus lens in the interchangeable lens 3 to the overall control unit. Coupler CP
Reference numerals 1 and CP2 denote interchangeable lenses 3 with the driving force of a zoom lens driving motor ZM (see FIG. 3) and the focusing lens driving motor FM (see FIG. 3) provided in the camera body 2. It is for transmitting to the side.

A tripod mount 213 for fixing the camera body 2 to a tripod is provided at an appropriate position on the bottom surface of the camera body 2. The tripod mounting portion 213 is formed of a hole formed with a female screw 213a, and a circular thin plate 213b made of a conductive member such as metal or conductive resin is provided on the back side of the hole so as to be vertically movable. 3) The contacts 213c and 213d of the switch for detecting that the tripod is attached to the lower side)
Is provided.

When the camera body 2 is mounted on a tripod by screwing a connecting male screw provided at the end of the tripod into the hole of the tripod mounting portion 213, the thin plate 213 is formed by the end of the male screw.
b is pushed into the inner side of the hole as shown by the dotted line in FIG. 3 and contacts the contacts 213c and 213d. Thereby, the contact 21
The switches 3c and 213d conduct and the switch is turned on, and it is detected that the camera body 2 is attached to a tripod.

When the interchangeable lens 3 is mounted on the mount section 201, a color image pickup element 205 is provided at an appropriate position in the camera body 2 on the optical axis L of the lens 3.
Color imaging device 205 (hereinafter, referred to as CCD 205)
Is a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) as shown in FIG.
e) on the surface of each pixel of the area sensor 205A comprising
R (red), G (green), B (blue) color filters 205
B is a so-called Bayer type single-plate type color area sensor which is pasted in a checkered pattern, and has, for example, 1600 × 1200 = 1.92 million pixels.

Note that, as shown in FIG.
The pixel position of the row j column is (i, j) (i = 1, 2,... N,
j = 1, 2,... m), n = 1600, m = 1200
Then, R, G, and B color filters are: R; (2h + 1, 2k + 1) G; (2h + 2, 2k + 1), (2h + 1, 2k + 2) B; (2h + 2, 2k + 2) where h = 0, 1, 2 , ... n / 2 (= 800), k =
, M / 2 (= 600) pixel positions.

A shutter button 206 is provided on the upper surface of the grip portion 202 of the camera body 2. The half-press operation and the full-press operation of the shutter button 206 are detected by switches S1 and S2 described later. When the switch S1 is turned on (when the shutter button 206 is half-pressed), a preparatory operation for photographing a still image of a subject (a preparatory operation such as setting of an exposure control value and a focus adjustment) is performed, and the switch S2 is turned on. When the shutter button 206 is turned on (when the shutter button 206 is fully pressed), a shooting operation (a series of operations of exposing the CCD 205, performing predetermined image processing on an image signal obtained by the exposure, and recording the image signal on the memory card MC) is performed. Done.

An electronic view finder (EVF) (Electronic View Finder) 4 and a pop-up type flash 5 are provided substantially at the center of the upper surface of the camera body 2. The electronic viewfinder 4 includes a display unit 401 (hereinafter, referred to as a display unit) including a color liquid crystal display device that displays a monitor image of a subject captured by the color image sensor 205 (an image of a subject captured by the color image sensor 205 in a movie standby state). LCD display unit 401) and an eyepiece 402 for guiding a monitor image displayed on the color liquid crystal display device to the outside of a finder window 403.

In the photographing standby state, the electronic viewfinder 4
Since the monitor image (moving image) of the subject is displayed on the screen, the photographer can visually recognize the subject from the monitor image by looking through the finder window 403.

A display unit 207 (hereinafter, referred to as an LCD display unit 207) formed of a color liquid crystal display device is provided substantially at the center of the rear surface of the camera body 2. The LCD display unit 207 displays an AE (Automatic Exposu) in the recording mode.
re) A menu screen for setting a mode, a photographing mode, photographing conditions and the like is displayed, and a photographed image recorded on the memory card MC is reproduced and displayed in the reproduction mode.

The AE mode includes at least a program mode, a shutter priority mode, and an aperture priority mode.
The exposure control value is set using one of a plurality of preset program charts. In the program mode, the exposure control value is set using a standard program chart, and the exposure control value is set. In the priority mode, the exposure control value is set using a program diagram that gives priority to the shutter speed (exposure time) over the aperture value. In the aperture priority mode, the exposure control value is set using a program diagram that gives priority to the aperture value over the shutter speed. The exposure control value is set.

The photographing modes include a mode relating to a control method of the exposure operation and a mode relating to blur suppression.

The modes relating to the control method of the exposure operation include:
One exposure operation is performed by one shutter operation, and a photographing condition is changed by a single shutter operation and a mode in which a photographed image obtained by the photographing is recorded on the memory card MC (hereinafter, referred to as a normal photographing mode). Or a mode in which two consecutive shots are performed without changing the shooting conditions, and two shot images obtained by the shooting are respectively recorded on the memory card MC (hereinafter, referred to as a special shooting mode). It is. Two photographed images consecutively photographed in the special photographing mode are subjected to predetermined image processing by an image processing device including a computer or the like, which will be described later, and are combined to provide an image having higher image quality and video effect than the original photographed image. Is used to obtain

In the present embodiment, the image synthesis processing is not performed in the camera body, but the image synthesis processing is performed in the camera body and the synthesized image is stored in the memory card MC.
May be recorded. Further, in the present embodiment, the number of continuous shootings in the special shooting mode is two, but the number of shootings is not limited to this, and may be three or more.

The special photographing mode includes at least a "blur taste adjustment mode" and a "gradation adjustment mode". The blur adjustment mode is a main subject (for example, a person or the like) in image processing.
In order to obtain an image having a desired degree of blur by synthesizing a photographed image A focused on and a photographed image B focused on the background of the main subject, the focus position can be adjusted by one shutter operation. This is a mode in which a photographing image A and a photographed image B are obtained by performing two consecutive photographing operations while changing.

The gradation adjustment mode is a mode in which a photographed image A whose exposure is adjusted to the main subject in image processing and a photographed image B whose exposure is adjusted to the background of the main subject are synthesized, for example, by adjusting the entire image to a proper size. In order to intentionally increase the contrast between an image having a high density distribution or the main subject and the background, and obtain a highly creative image, two consecutive shots with the exposure condition changed by one shutter operation Performing the operation, the photographed image A
And a captured image B.

In the photographing in the special photographing mode, since the first photographed image and the second photographed image are synthesized later, it is desirable that they coincide as much as possible, and image blurring may occur. It is desirable to forcibly prohibit shooting or issue a warning to prevent creation of an inappropriate composite image under shooting conditions.

For this reason, the digital still camera 1 according to the present embodiment suppresses image blur caused by camera shake when the camera body 2 which may cause camera shake is held in the special shooting mode. Therefore, photography is prohibited and a warning is displayed. It should be noted that only either the prohibition of photographing or the warning display may be performed.

Therefore, the menu screen of the photographing mode is displayed on the LCD display unit 207 to set any one of the normal photographing mode, the blur adjustment mode, and the gradation adjustment mode, and the normal photographing mode is selected. In this case, a mode screen is displayed in which a menu screen for a blur suppression mode is displayed to suppress blurring during hand-held shooting, or not (see FIG. 7).

A power switch 208 is provided on the left side of the LCD display unit 207. The power switch 208 also functions as a mode setting switch for switching between a recording mode (a mode for performing a photographing function) and a reproduction mode (a mode for reproducing a recorded image on the LCD display unit 207).
That is, the power switch 208 is formed of a three-point slide switch, and when the contact is set to the central “OFF” position,
When the power is turned off and the contacts are set to the upper “REC” position, the power is turned on and the recording mode is set. When the contacts are set to the lower “PLAY” position, the power is turned on and the playback mode is set. Is set.

At the upper right position of the LCD display unit 207, 4
A continuous switch 209 is provided. Quad switch 20
Reference numeral 9 denotes a circular operation button, and the operation of pressing the operation button in four directions of up, down, left, and right is detected. The quad switch 209 is multifunctional, and functions as, for example, an operation switch for changing an item selected on a menu screen displayed on the LCD display unit 207 or changing a playback target frame selected on the index screen. In addition, the switch in the left-right direction also functions as a switch for changing the zoom ratio of the interchangeable lens 3.

A switch group 210 is provided below the four-way switch 209 for performing operations related to the display and display contents of the LCD display unit 207. The switch group 210 includes a cancel switch 210a and a decision switch 21.
0b, menu switch 210c and display switch 21
0d is included.

The cancel switch 210a is a switch for canceling the contents selected on the menu screen. The confirmation switch 210b is a switch for confirming the content selected on the menu screen. Menu switch 210c
Displays a menu screen on the LCD display unit 207,
A switch for switching the contents of the menu screen. Each time the menu switch 210c is pressed, the menu screen switches. The display switch 210d is L
A switch for displaying on the CD display unit 207 or for turning off the display. In order to save power of the power batteries E1 to E4, the display on the LCD display unit 207 is not performed when the camera is started. Display switch 21
Each time 0d is pressed, display and non-display of the LCD display unit 207 are alternately performed.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a method for switching and displaying a menu screen by the menu switch 210c to set a photographing mode.

When the menu switch 210c is pressed,
A predetermined menu screen is displayed on the LCD display unit 207,
Each time the menu switch 210c is pressed, the contents of the menu screen are switched. FIG. 7 shows a state in which the menu screen is switched from a screen for selecting a normal shooting mode and a special shooting mode to a screen for selecting and setting a mode related to blur suppression, and a shooting mode and a mode related to blur suppression are selected and set. It is shown.

On the menu screen, for example, a plurality of items are displayed in an array, and a display (for example, a cursor or an inverted display) indicating a selected state is performed on the currently selected item. On the menu screen of the shooting mode, the LCD display unit 207 displays
A menu screen as shown in the upper part of FIG. 7 is displayed. The item of “normal shooting” on this menu screen is a normal shooting mode, which is a mode in which special shooting is not performed as in the shooting operation of the silver halide camera. “Blur taste adjustment shooting” and “gradation adjustment shooting” refer to the blur adjustment mode and the tone adjustment mode in the special shooting modes, respectively.

When the upward switch of the quad switch 209 is pressed on the menu screen shown in FIG. 7, the display position of the cursor K indicated by the black triangle (that is, the item indicated by the cursor K) cyclically moves upward. , 4 switches 2
When the down switch 09 is pressed, the item display position indicated by the cursor K moves cyclically downward. When the confirmation switch 210b of the switch group 210 is pressed, the item (the gradation adjustment mode in FIG. 6) indicated by the cursor K at that time is set as the shooting mode.

Therefore, the photographer can select a desired photographing mode by operating the four-way switch 209 in the up-down direction on the photographing mode menu screen, and operate the enter switch 210d to set the photographing mode. it can.

In the example of FIG. 7, since the gradation adjustment mode is selected, the menu switch 210c is further operated in this state.
When is pressed, a menu screen for selecting and setting a mode relating to blur suppression as shown in the lower part of the figure is displayed. In this menu screen, "perform hand-held shooting blur suppression processing" corresponds to the blur suppression mode.

On the menu screen, the desired mode is selected by operating the four-way switch 209 in the up-down direction, and when the confirm switch 210d is operated, the mode is set. In the example of FIG. 7, since the blur suppression mode is selected, if the confirmation switch 210d is operated in this state, the blur suppression mode is set.

When the mode setting for the shooting mode is completed and the menu switch 210c is pressed, the display is switched to the next menu screen (for example, an AE mode selection screen) or to the original menu screen (for example, a preview image display screen). Can be A desired mode can be set for the AE mode in the same manner.

On the index screen, nine thumbnail images of all the images recorded on the memory card MC are displayed in an array, and the display selected for the currently selected frame (for example, blinking display or frame display) Etc.) are performed. When one of the up, down, left and right direction switches of the quad switch 209 is pressed, the display indicating the selected state of the menu screen or the index screen moves to the item or frame in that direction. For example, when the upward switch is pressed, the display indicating the selected state of the menu screen or the index screen moves to the upward item or frame. Then, when the confirmation switch 210d is operated in a state where any one of the thumbnail images is selected, the frame of the thumbnail image is reproduced.

In the zoom operation of the interchangeable lens 3, when the right switch of the quadruple switch 209 is pressed, the interchangeable lens 3 continuously moves to the wide side, and when the leftward switch of the quadruple switch 209 is pressed, the interchangeable lens 3 is pressed. The zoom lens 3 continuously moves to the telephoto side.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the digital still camera 1.

The digital still camera 1 mainly includes a lens 1
01, imaging unit 102, signal processing unit 103, light emission control unit 1
04, lens control unit 105, display unit 106, operation unit 10
7 and the overall control unit 108.

The lens 101 corresponds to the interchangeable lens 3. The lens 101 is a focusing lens 101a
And a lens 101b for adjusting the amount of transmitted light.

The image pickup section 102 photoelectrically converts a light image of a subject incident through the lens 101 into an image signal (electric image) and takes it in. The imaging unit 102 includes a CCD 102a corresponding to the color imaging element 205,
Generator 102b for controlling the imaging operation of the camera
And a timing control circuit 102c for controlling the driving of the timing generator 102b.

The CCD 102a receives a drive control signal (integration start signal / input signal) input from the timing generator 102b.
Based on the integration end signal), the subject light image is received for a predetermined time (exposure time) and converted into an image signal (charge accumulation signal), and the image signal is read out by a read control signal (horizontal synchronization) input from the timing generator 102b. (A signal, a vertical synchronization signal, a transfer signal, etc.). At this time, the image signal is separated into R, G, and B color components and output to the signal processing unit 103. That is, the image signals of the R color component are output by sequentially reading the image signals received by the pixels at the pixel positions (2h + 1, 2k + 1), and the pixel positions (2h + 2, 2k + 1), (2h + 1,
By sequentially reading out the image signals received by each pixel at 2k + 2), an image signal of the G color component is output. By reading out the image signals received at each pixel at the pixel position (2h + 2, 2k + 2), the B signal is read out. An image signal of a color component is output.

The timing generator 102b generates a drive control signal based on a control signal input from the timing control circuit 102c, generates a read control signal based on a reference clock, and outputs the read control signal to the CCD 102a. The timing control circuit 102c controls the photographing operation of the imaging unit 102. Timing control circuit 102
c generates a shooting control signal based on a control signal input from the overall control unit 108. The photographing control signal includes a photographing control signal for displaying a moving image of a subject (hereinafter, referred to as a live view image) on the electronic viewfinder 4 during monitor standby in the recording mode, and the shutter button 6 is operated to operate the subject. Control signal, reference clock, and CC for capturing a still image (hereinafter, referred to as a recorded image)
D102a outputs the image signal to the signal processing unit 103
Signal (synchronous clock) for signal processing by
And so on. This timing signal is transmitted to the signal processing unit 10.
3 signal processing circuit 103a and A / D conversion circuit 103
b.

The signal processing section 103 performs predetermined analog signal processing and digital signal processing on the image signal output from the CCD 102a. The signal processing of the image signal is performed for each light receiving signal of each pixel constituting the image data. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, in order to distinguish a light receiving signal of each pixel from an image signal forming a captured image based on a set of these signals, the light receiving signal of each pixel is converted to a pixel signal (analog signal) or pixel data (digital) as necessary. Signal).

The signal processing section 103 includes an analog signal processing circuit 103a, an A / D conversion circuit 103b, a black level correction circuit 103c, a WB adjustment circuit 103d, and a γ correction circuit 103.
e and the image memory 103f. Note that the black level correction circuit 103c, the WB adjustment circuit 103d, and the γ correction circuit 103e constitute a circuit that performs digital signal processing.

The analog signal processing circuit 103a is mainly a CD
The CCD 102a includes an S circuit (correlated double sampling) circuit and an AGC (auto gain control) circuit.
To reduce the sampling noise and adjust the signal level of the pixel signal output from. The gain control in the AGC circuit includes the aperture value of the aperture 101 c and the CCD 102.
This also includes a case where insufficient level of a captured image is compensated for when an appropriate exposure cannot be obtained with the exposure time a (for example, when a very low-luminance subject is captured).

The A / D conversion circuit 102b converts each pixel signal output from the analog signal processing circuit 103a into digital pixel data. A / D conversion circuit 10
2b converts each pixel signal into, for example, 10-bit pixel data.

The black level correction circuit 103c corrects the black level of each A / D converted pixel data to a reference black level. The WB adjustment circuit 103d adjusts the white balance of the captured image. WB adjustment circuit 10
Reference numeral 3d adjusts the white balance of the captured image by converting the levels of the pixel data of each of the R, G, and B color components using the level conversion table input from the overall control unit 108. The conversion coefficient of each color component in the level conversion table is set by the overall control unit 108 for each captured image. The gamma correction circuit 103e corrects gamma characteristics of pixel data. The gamma correction circuit 103e corrects the level of each pixel data using a preset correction table.

The image memory 103f is a memory for temporarily storing image data for which signal processing has been completed. Image memory 1
03f has a capacity capable of storing image data of at least two frames. This is because two consecutive exposures are performed in the imaging in the blur adjustment mode or the like and two frames of image data are captured, so that these can be stored. The storage capacity capable of storing one frame of image data is, for example, the CCD 102
Assuming that the number of pixels of a is 1600 × 1200 = 1.92 million,
This is a capacity capable of storing 1.92 million pixel data.

The light emission control unit 104 controls light emission of the flash 5 based on a light emission control signal input from the overall control unit 108. The light emission control signal includes a light emission preparation instruction, light emission timing, and light emission amount. Upon receiving a light emission preparation instruction from the overall control unit 108, the light emission control unit 104 charges a main capacitor (not shown) to enable light emission, and discharges the accumulated charge of the main capacitor in synchronization with the light emission timing signal. This causes the flash 5 to emit light. Then, based on the light emission stop signal input from the overall control unit 108, the discharge of the accumulated charge in the main capacitor is stopped. Thus, the flash 5 emits light with a required light emission amount.

The lens control unit 105 controls the driving of the focusing lens 101a, the zoom lens 101b, and the diaphragm 101c in the lens 101.
The lens control unit 105 includes an aperture control circuit 105a for controlling the aperture value of the aperture 101c, a focus control circuit 105b for controlling the drive of the focus motor FM, and a zoom control circuit 105c for controlling the drive of the zoom motor ZM.

The aperture control circuit 105a is a general control unit 108
The aperture 101a is driven on the basis of the aperture value input from, and the aperture amount is set to the aperture value. The focus control circuit 105b controls the AF input from the overall control unit 108.
The drive amount of the focus motor FM is driven based on a control signal (for example, a control value such as the number of drive pulses) to set the focus lens 101b at the focal position. The zoom control circuit 105c drives the zoom motor ZM based on a zoom control signal (operation information of the quadruple switch 209) input from the overall control unit 108, and moves the zoom lens 101b in the direction specified by the quadruple switch 209. Move. That is, the zoom control circuit 105c outputs the
When the operation information of the right switch 209 is input,
The zoom lens 1 is driven by driving the zoom motor ZM in the forward direction.
01b is moved to the wide side, and when the left operation information of the quad switch 209 is input, the zoom motor ZM is driven in the reverse direction to move the zoom lens 101b to the tele side.

The display unit 106 performs display on the LCD display unit 207 and display on the electronic viewfinder 4. The display unit 106 includes a display 106a and a VRAM 106b corresponding to the LCD display unit 207, and a display 106c and a VRAM 106d corresponding to the LCD display unit 401 in the electronic viewfinder 4. The display 106a has, for example, 640 × 480 = 307.
The display 106c has, for example, 400 × 300 = 120,000 pixels. Therefore, the VRAM 106b is connected to the display 106a.
370,000 pixel data can be stored corresponding to the number of pixels of VRAM 106d.
Approximately 120,000 pixel data can be stored corresponding to the number of pixels of c.

During the standby for photographing, the data of each frame image of the moving image which is photographed by the CCD 102a and stored in the image memory 103f after predetermined signal processing is sequentially read out to the overall control unit 108, and the data size is displayed on the display 10
The display size is adjusted to 6c (that is, the image data of 1.92 million pixels is adjusted to image data of approximately 120,000 pixels) and transferred to the VRAM 106d. As a result, a preview image of the subject is displayed on the display 106c (display surface of the LCD display unit 401) on the monitor. When display of the LCD display unit 207 is instructed by operating the display switch 210d, the data of each frame image read to the overall display unit 108 is adjusted to the display size of the display 106a (that is, 1.92 million pixels). VRA is adjusted to image data of approximately 307000 pixels)
The preview image of the subject is also displayed on the display 106a (display surface of the LCD display unit 207) on the monitor.

Further, when a menu display is instructed by operating the menu switch 210c, the image data of the menu screen stored in the ROM 108a in the overall control unit 108 is read out to the VRAM 106b, whereby the display contents of the display 106a are changed to the menus. You can switch to the screen.

In the reproduction mode, the thumbnail images of the shot images are read from each frame image file recorded on the memory card MC by the overall control unit 108, arranged in accordance with a predetermined format, and image data for index display is created. The image data is read out to the VRAM 106b. As a result, a list of captured images recorded on the memory card MC is displayed on the display 106a. When the frame to be reproduced is designated by operating the quad switch 209, the image data of the photographed image recorded in the image file corresponding to the frame recorded on the memory card MC is read, and the image data of the display 106a is read. The image is adjusted to the display size and transferred to the VRAM 106b.
As a result, the captured image is reproduced and displayed on the display 106a (the display surface of the LCD display unit 207).

The operation unit 107 transmits operation information of operation members related to photographing and reproduction provided in the camera body 2 to the overall control unit 1.
08. Operation information input from the operation unit 107 includes a shutter button 206, a power switch 2
08, four-switch 209, switch group 210, and other operation members.

The overall control unit 108 centrally controls the photographing function and the reproduction function of the digital still camera 1. The overall control unit 108 has a card interface 1
09 is connected to a memory card MC. Also, a signal input by infrared rays from the infrared remote controller 111 is transmitted to the entire control unit 1 via the infrared interface 110.
08.

Switch S connected to overall control unit 108
_POD is a switch for detecting that a tripod is attached to the tripod mount 213, and switch S _REM is a switch for detecting that the remote control mode is set.
_{The GRP} corresponds to a switch that detects that the grip unit 202 is gripped by hand. Tripod mounting part 213
When a tripod is attached to the switch, an ON signal is input from the switch S _POD to the overall control unit 108, and when the remote control mode is set, an ON signal is input from the switch S _REM to the overall control unit 108, and the grip unit 202 is manually operated. , An ON signal is input from the switch S _RGP to the overall control unit 108.

The overall control unit 108 is composed of a microcomputer, and includes a processing program for performing various specific processes in the photographing function and the reproduction function, and the above-described imaging unit 102, signal processing unit 103, light emission control unit 104, lens The control unit 105 includes a ROM 108a in which a control program for controlling driving of the display unit 106 and the like is stored, and a RAM 108b for performing various arithmetic operations in accordance with a processing program and a control program.

The specific processing performed by the overall control unit 108 includes an exposure control value for capturing a live view image or photographing a subject (the exposure time Tv [E
v value] and the aperture value Av [EV value] of the aperture 101c (exposure control value calculation processing), and the electronic viewfinder 4 displays a live view image captured from the CCD 102a into the image memory 103f in the recording mode. The recorded image read out from the memory card MC to the image memory 103f in the reproduction mode is displayed on the LCD display unit 207.
(Recording process), a process (recording process) of recording a captured image taken from the CCD 102a into the image memory 103f in the card memory MC in the recording mode, and a process to be reproduced from the memory card MC in the reproduction mode. A process of reading an image into the image memory 103f (reproduction process), a process of continuously performing an exposure operation in a special shooting mode such as a blur adjustment mode (special exposure control process), an exposure operation in the special shooting mode, and the camera body 2. For determining whether or not is fixed to a tripod or the like.

Exposure value calculator 108c, display controller 108
d, the recording control unit 108e, the reproduction control unit 108f, the special exposure control unit 108g, the blur suppression processing unit 108h, and the camera fixing determination unit 108i represent the above-described processes in the overall control unit 108 by functional blocks.

The exposure value determination unit 108c performs an exposure value calculation process, determines the brightness of the subject using the image data of the G color component of the live view image, and calculates the exposure control value based on the determination result. I do.

The display control unit 108d performs an image display process. The display operation of the display unit 106, that is,
After reading out the image data temporarily stored in the image memory 103f and adjusting the image size to the image size of the display destination as necessary, the VRAM 106c or the VRAM 10
6d.

The recording control section 108e performs a recording process. In the normal shooting mode, when shooting is instructed by the shutter button 206 in the normal shooting mode, the recording control unit 108e reads out the image data (still image data) temporarily stored in the image memory 103f after the shooting instruction to the RAM 108b. A predetermined compression process by the JPEG method such as DCT conversion and Huffman coding is performed to create image data for recording. Also, pixel data is stored in the image memory 103f every n pixels in both the vertical and horizontal directions.
108b, the number of pixels (1600 / n) ×
(1200 / n) thumbnail image is created. For example, when n = 8, a thumbnail image having 200 × 150 pixels is created. Further, tag information relating to a captured image to be recorded accompanying these image data for recording is created. This tag information includes the lens name, frame number, focal length at the time of shooting, F number at the time of shooting, focal position, subject brightness, white balance adjustment value, shooting mode, compression ratio, shooting date, presence / absence of flash emission, etc. It is.

The recording control unit 108e attaches tag information to the compressed image data of the photographed image and the thumbnail image, and adds EXIF (Exchangeable Image File Format).
A format image file is created, and this image file is recorded on the memory card MC.

In the imaging modes of the blur adjustment mode and the gradation adjustment mode, an image file is created after the captured image is A / D converted and recorded on the memory card MC.

In these photographing modes, two photographed images A and B are generated by one shutter operation, so that each photographed image A and B is uncompressed TIFF (Tag Image File For
mat) format image files are created and recorded on the memory card MC. Further, since the captured images A and B are used to generate an image having excellent blur and gradation, the tag information of both image files includes information that can be recognized as a captured image for image synthesis. It is. Further, since the photographed images A and B are for improving the image quality by image synthesis, all the pixel data are recorded as they are without performing compression processing which causes a decrease in image quality.

FIG. 9 shows an example of the structure of an image file recorded on the memory card MC.

In the figure, “P000001.TI”
“F”, “P000002.TIF” and the like indicate image file names. In the present embodiment, the image file name is "P
X. Y ”,“ X ”of“ PX.Y ”is a 6-digit number indicating the order in which the image files were created,
“Y” is a symbol indicating the format of the image data. The symbol "TIF" in "Y" indicates that the data is in a format for recording the pixel data of the CCD as it is, and the symbol "JPG"
Indicates that the data is compressed in the JPEG format.

In the bokeh adjustment mode and the gradation adjustment mode, two photographed images are taken in continuously, and an image file is created for each of these image data. The data is collectively recorded in one holder and recorded on the memory card MC.
Therefore, “1b”, “2b”, “1t”, and the like indicate the holder names of the image files photographed in the blur adjustment mode and the gradation adjustment mode, respectively.

In this embodiment, the holder name is “Ni”.
Where “i” of “Ni” is a symbol (b, t) indicating a shooting mode, and “N” is a number indicating a shooting order in each shooting mode. For example, “1b” indicates that the image data of the first image captured in the blur adjustment mode is stored in the holder, and “2b” indicates that the image data of the second image captured in the blur adjustment mode is stored. Indicates that it is a stored holder.

Therefore, FIG. 9 shows the two holders 1b, 2b, which are photographed in the blur adjustment mode, are photographed in the gradation adjustment mode, and are photographed in the normal photographing mode with the prepared holder 1t. Two image files 1n and 2
n are stored in the memory card MC in a folder P.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a method of recording an image file on the memory card MC.

An index area for storing holder information and information of image files belonging to each holder is provided in the head storage area of the memory card MC, and the image files are stored in the subsequent area in the order of the file number X. I have.

The recording area of each image file in the memory card MC is composed of three areas. Tag information data, photographed image data, and thumbnail image data are stored in each area from the top. The data size of the tag information data and the thumbnail image data does not change depending on the image file, but the data size of the shot image changes depending on the compression ratio and the shooting mode. Therefore, the number of files that can be stored in the image file storage area of the memory card MC changes depending on the data size of the captured image data of each image file.

The reproduction control unit 108f performs a process of reproducing the captured image recorded on the memory card MC on the LCD display unit 207. When the reproduction mode is set by the power switch 208, the reproduction control unit 108f reads out the thumbnail images from each image file recorded on the memory card MC, and sequentially stores the thumbnail images in the VRAM 106b according to a predetermined index format. For example, nine thumbnail images are stored in the VRAM 106b so as to be arranged in a 3 × 3 secondary array per page. Accordingly, nine two-dimensionally arranged thumbnail images are index-displayed on the LCD display unit 207.

[0095] For the related image files in which the shooting mode is the blur adjustment mode and the gradation adjustment mode, the same thumbnail image is stored in both image files. Is read.

When the thumbnail image of the frame to be reproduced with respect to the index-displayed thumbnail image is specified by the four-way switch 209 and the switch group 210, the reproduction processing unit 108f executes the shooting image processing from the image file corresponding to the frame. Is read out, and when the frame is in the normal shooting mode, since the data is compressed, a predetermined decompression process is performed, and the data is stored in the image memory 103f.
If the frame is not in the normal shooting mode, the data is not compressed and is stored in the image memory 103f as it is. The data read out to the image memory 103f is adjusted in data size by the display control unit 108d and transferred to the VRAM 106b as described above, and is thereby reproduced and displayed on the LCD display unit 207.

If the frame to be reproduced is a frame shot in the bokeh adjustment mode, an image of a focused shot image (an image shot second time as described later in this embodiment). If the captured image data is read from the file and the frame is captured in the gradation adjustment mode and the super-resolution mode, the captured image data is read from one of the corresponding image files. It is.

The special exposure control unit 108g controls the exposure operation of the CCD 102a when the shutter button 6 is fully pressed in a state where the blur adjustment mode and the gradation adjustment mode are set. Special exposure control unit 108g
Basically, when the S2 switch is turned on, the exposure operation of the CCD 102a is continuously repeated twice to capture an image for image synthesis.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a specific photographing procedure in the blur adjustment mode.

In the blur adjustment mode, when the shutter button 206 is half-pressed (YES in # 1), preparations for photographing a still image are performed. That is, the diaphragm 101c
Is set to an open aperture value (for example, F = 2.8) (# 3), and the focal point of the lens 101 is adjusted to the ∞ position (# 5). Further, the exposure time of the CCD 102a is set, and white balance adjustment is performed (# 7).

When the shutter button 206 is fully pressed in this state (YES in # 9), the CCD 102a is exposed for the exposure time set in step # 7, and a still image of the subject is captured (# 11). After exposure, the CCD 102
The image signal output from a is subjected to predetermined analog signal processing, A / D conversion, and predetermined digital signal processing in the signal processing unit 103, and is stored in the image memory 103f (#
13). Since the focus of the lens 101 is adjusted to the position ∞ in this photographed image, the image is in focus over a wide range of the screen.

Subsequently, the display control unit 1 of the overall control unit 108
08d, the image data is read from the image memory 103f to the RAM 108b, and the data size is adjusted.
(# 15). This display processing is for monitoring a captured image immediately after capturing, and the first captured image is displayed for a predetermined time (for example, two seconds).

The first photographed image is displayed on the monitor because the after-view display satisfies the demand for the photographer to confirm the contents of the photographed image immediately after photographing and to judge whether or not re-taking is necessary. This is because it is considered that it is suitable for the purpose of after-view display to display the first captured image that is captured at the timing closest to the shutter operation of the photographer and that has the widest focus range. Therefore, in consideration of such a relationship with the after-view display, in the first photographing, the aperture value of the aperture 101c is set to the open aperture value so as to be the deepest in the depth of field.

Subsequently, the focus of the lens 101 is adjusted to, for example, a focal position corresponding to a subject distance of 3 m (# 1).
7) Further, the exposure time of the CCD 102a is set, and the white balance is adjusted (# 19).

Then, the CCD 102a is set in step # 19.
The still image of the subject is captured by exposing for the exposure time set in (# 21). After the exposure, the image signal output from the CCD 102a is subjected to predetermined analog signal processing, A / D conversion, and predetermined digital signal processing in the signal processing unit 103, and is stored in the image memory 103f (# 2).
3). In this captured image, the focus of the lens 101 is adjusted to a focal position corresponding to a subject distance of 3 m, so that the main subject in the screen is almost in focus.

Subsequently, the recording control unit 1 of the overall control unit 108
08e, tag information data is created for the first captured image stored in the image memory 103f, and image data of a thumbnail image is created using the image data of the first captured image. An image file is created from the image data of the captured image.
In addition, a holder for a captured image in the blur adjustment mode is created in the memory card MC, and an image file of the first captured image is stored in the holder (# 25, see FIG. 9).

It should be noted that the photographing mode of the tag information for this photographed image is that the photograph was taken in the first time in the blur adjusting mode, such as “blur taste adjusting mode 1/2” (see FIG. 10). The information shown is given.

Subsequently, the recording control unit 1 of the overall control unit 108
08e, tag information data is created for the second captured image stored in the image memory 103f, and thumbnail image data is created using the second captured image image data. And an image file of the second captured image. This image file is stored in the holder of the memory card MC where the first captured image is stored (# 2).
7). Thus, the photographing process ends, and the process returns to the photographing standby state (the display state of the live view image).

It should be noted that even if the second image captured in the bokeh adjustment mode is taken, the image is taken in the bokeh adjustment mode like the “bokeh adjustment mode 2/2” in the imaging mode of the tag information. Information indicating that the information has been transmitted. The reason why the information regarding the shooting mode is included in the tag information is that the image information is distinguished from the shot image in the normal shooting mode, and when this image file is selected by the image processing apparatus as described later, the blur is automatically determined. This is because the processing program for the adjustment process is started so that the blur adjustment process can be performed immediately.

In this embodiment, the focus is first set on the distant view side, and then the focus is set on the near view side for the second time. However, the order of changing the focus position may be reversed. Good. In addition, when shooting is performed in the blur adjustment mode after the camera is started, when the camera is started, the focusing lens 10 is used.
Since 1a is initially set to the ∞ position, it is more reasonable to focus on the distant view side in the first shooting without wasteful focus control.

In the second photographing, the in-focus position is fixed at a position 3 m from the camera. However, since the combined image in an arbitrary focused state is created by the blur adjustment processing, the photographing before combining is performed. Considering that the need to accurately determine the focus position of the image is low, and that the processing time for focus control should be as short as possible so that continuous shooting can be performed quickly, The distance from may be fixed to another distance, or AF processing may be performed to accurately set the distance to the main subject.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a photographing procedure in the gradation adjustment mode.

In the gradation adjustment mode, when the shutter button 206 is half-pressed (YES in # 31), preparations for photographing a still image are performed. That is, the lens 101
Is adjusted to the main subject, an exposure control value (Tv, Av) is calculated using the live view image, and a white balance adjustment value is set (# 33).

If the shutter button 206 is fully pressed in this state (YES in # 35), a shutter speed (Tv-2) two steps lower than the shutter speed Tv (EV value) set in step # 33 is set. (# 3
7), the exposure time corresponding to this shutter speed is C
The still image of the subject is captured by exposing the CD 102a (# 39). After the exposure, the image signal output from the CCD 102a is subjected to predetermined analog signal processing, A / D conversion, and predetermined digital signal processing in the signal processing unit 103, and is stored in the image memory 103f (# 41). Since the exposure time of the CCD 102 is shorter than an appropriate value, the captured image is a dark image as a whole.

Subsequently, a shutter speed (Tv + 2) that is two steps over the shutter speed Tv (EV value) set in step # 33 is set (# 43), and the CCD 102a is exposed for an exposure time corresponding to this shutter speed.
And a still image of the subject is captured (# 4).
5). After the exposure, the image signal output from the CCD 102a is subjected to a predetermined analog signal
D conversion and predetermined digital signal processing are performed and stored in the image memory 103f (# 47). Since the exposure time of the CCD 102 is longer than an appropriate value, the captured image is a bright image as a whole.

Subsequently, the display controller 1 of the overall controller 108
08d, the image data of the first shot image A and the image data of the second shot image B are read out from the image memory 103f into the RAM 108b, and an image C having an average density of both the shot images (hereinafter referred to as an average density image C) Is created (# 49). That is, photographed image A
Ga (i, j) (i = 1, 2,... N,
j = 1, 2,... m) and gb (i, j) as pixel data constituting the captured image B, gc (i, j) = {ga (i, j) + gb (i, j)}.
By calculating / 2, image data of the average density image C is created.

After adjusting the data size, this image data is transferred to the VRAM 106b and
7 is displayed (# 51). This display processing is for enabling the captured image to be monitored immediately after the image capturing, and the display of the average density image C is performed for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds).

In the gradation adjustment mode, the average density image C is used as a monitor image because the densities of the first and second shot images are shifted from the appropriate densities to the minus side and the plus side, respectively. This is because neither is suitable for monitor display. In addition, by creating a processed image similar to a normal image combining process by a simple calculation called an average value calculation and performing after-view display, an image having a relatively appropriate density can be promptly displayed on a monitor after shooting is completed. I can do it.

Subsequently, the recording control unit 1 of the overall control unit 108
08e, tag information data is created for the first captured image stored in the image memory 103f, and image data of a thumbnail image is created using the image data of the first captured image. An image file is created from the image data of the captured image.
Further, a holder for the captured image in the gradation adjustment mode is created in the memory card MC, and an image file of the first captured image is stored in the holder (# 53, see FIG. 9).

It should be noted that information indicating that the image has been shot for the first time in the gradation adjustment mode, such as "gradation adjustment mode 1/2", is added to the photographing mode of the tag information for the photographed image. You.

Subsequently, the recording control unit 1 of the overall control unit 108
08e, tag information data is created for the second captured image stored in the image memory 103f, and thumbnail image data is created using the second captured image image data. And an image file of the second captured image. This image file is stored in the holder of the memory card MC where the first captured image is stored (# 5).
5). Thus, the photographing process ends, and the process returns to the photographing standby state (the display state of the live view image).

Note that, even if the second photographed image photographed in the gradation adjustment mode is taken, the photographing mode of the tag information is photographed in the gradation adjustment mode such as “gradation adjustment mode 2/2”. Information indicating that the information has been transmitted.

In this embodiment, two images are successively photographed with an exposure value shifted by ± 2 steps with respect to the appropriate exposure control. It is not limited. Further, the positive / negative shift amount may be different, and the photographer may be able to set the shift amount.

Returning to FIG. 8, the blur suppression processing unit 108h
As described above, in the normal shooting mode, when the blur suppression mode is set, the set exposure time is divided, and a plurality of continuous exposures are performed with the divided exposure time, and images with less image blur are captured. These images are combined to obtain an image corresponding to a photographed image obtained when photographing is performed with the set exposure time.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a photographing process in the blur suppression mode. If the anti-shake mode is set, two consecutive shootings in the special shooting mode
Each is performed according to the photographing processing procedure shown in FIG. In the flowchart shown in FIG. 13, the number of divisions n of the exposure time is four.

In the blur suppression mode, first, the exposure time t corresponding to the set shutter speed is reduced to 1/4 (# 61), and the value of the counter n indicating the number of exposures is set to "1". It is set (# 63). And CCD1
02a is exposed for an exposure time t / 4, and a still image of the first subject is captured. After the exposure, the image signal output from the CCD 102a is subjected to predetermined analog signal processing, A / D conversion, and predetermined digital signal processing in the signal processing unit 103, and is stored in the image memory 103f (# 6).
5).

Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the four exposure operations have been completed (# 67). Since this is the first time, the process proceeds to step # 69, the value of the counter n is incremented by 1, and the process returns to step # 65, where a still image of the second subject is captured.

Thereafter, the exposure operation is repeated in the same manner, and when the fourth photographed image is captured (YES in # 67), the flow shifts to step # 71 to photograph the first photographed image and the second to fourth photographed images. A registration process (a process of calculating a positional shift amount with respect to the first captured image) is performed between the image and the image (a loop of # 71 to # 79).

In the registration processing, the positions of two images to be combined are aligned in order to accurately combine the same symbols on the screen in the image combining processing.
In the registration process, for example, one captured image A
, The two captured images A and B are collated while the other captured image B is being translated, and the translation amount of the captured image B in which the captured images A and B match is calculated. One shot image A
The degree of coincidence of the other photographed image B with respect to the amount of parallel movement that minimizes the sum of the absolute values of the level differences between the data of both photographed images A and B (correlation function) with the amount of parallel movement of photographed image B as an argument Is calculated as the amount of movement (that is, the amount of displacement) for matching the captured image B with the captured image A.

In step # 71, the count value m for counting the number of the captured image to be registered is set to "2". Then 1
Th shot with the image G ₁ based calculates the moved while the correlation coefficient r parallel second photographed image G ₂ at a predetermined pitch, the movement amount of the correlation coefficient r is maximum (X ₁ , Y ₁ ) is calculated (# 73). Then, based on the movement amount (X ₁ , Y ₁ ), the second captured image is moved so as to overlap the first captured image (# 75).

Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the alignment of the fourth captured image with respect to the first captured image has been completed (# 77). Since this time is the second captured image, the process proceeds to step # 79, the value of the counter m is incremented by 1, and the process returns to step # 73, where the positioning process is performed on the third captured image (# 7
3, 75).

In the same manner, the positioning process is performed for the fourth captured image, and when the positioning process for all the captured images is completed (YES in # 77), step # 8 is performed.
Then, the process proceeds to 1 and the process of synthesizing the fourth captured image is performed, and the process ends. In this synthesizing process, the pixel data D ₁ (k) of the photographed image G ₁ for each pixel position (k, h) for the overlapping part of all the photographed images G ₁ , G ₂ , G ₃ , G ₄ after the registration process , h), the pixel data D ₃ of the photographed image G ₂ (k,
h), the pixel data D ₃ of the photographed image G ₃ (k, h), and the photographed image G ₄
Of pixel data D ₀ (k, h) = D ₁ (k, h) + D ₂ (k, h) + of the pixel data of the captured image in which the image blur has been suppressed by adding the pixel data D ₄ (k, h)
D ₃ (k, h) + D ₄ (k, h) is calculated.

Returning to FIG. 8, the camera fixing determining unit 108i
Is for determining whether or not the camera body 2 is fixed to a tripod or the like, and determines the holding state of the camera body 2 based on input signals from the switches S _POD , S _REM , and S _GRP .
That is, when a tripod set signal is input from the switch S _{POD, a} remote mode setting signal is input from the switch S _REM , or a holding detection signal of the grip unit 201 is input from the switch S _GRP , The camera body 2 is determined to be fixed, and if no signal is input, it is determined that the camera body 2 is held by hand.

Next, the shooting control in the special shooting mode based on how to hold the camera body 2 and the setting contents of the shooting mode according to the present invention will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

The flowcharts of FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 show that, when the photographing mode is set, in the special photographing mode, when the camera body 2 is held by hand, the photographing is forcibly prohibited and a warning to that effect is issued. The processing to be performed is performed. This processing is periodically performed in the recording mode, and the operation of the camera is controlled based on the flag set immediately before the exposure operation after the release instruction is issued.

First, it is determined whether or not the setting content of the photographing mode has been changed (# 91). The photographing mode has not been changed (NO in # 91), or the changed photographing mode is the normal photographing mode. In some cases (YE in # 93)
S), and proceeds to step # 103.

On the other hand, when the photographing mode is changed to the special photographing mode (YES in # 91, NO in # 93), whether the camera body 2 is fixed to a tripod or not is gripped by the grip portion 201 by hand. It is determined whether the remote control mode has been set or not (# 95, # 97,
# 99).

If the camera body 2 is not fixed to a tripod (NO in # 95), the grip 201 is gripped by hand (NO in # 97), and the remote control mode is not set (NO in # 99). NO), that is, when it is presumed that the photographer holds the camera body 2 by hand and that the photographing is performed by operating the shutter button 206, the photographing is prohibited, and the LCD display unit as shown in FIG. A shooting prohibition mode is set to 207, and a warning is displayed indicating that shooting is not possible unless the camera body 2 is fixed (# 101), and the flow returns to step # 91. In the example of FIG. 16, a message "Please fix the camera" is displayed at the lower left corner of the LCD display unit 207, but a similar warning display may be displayed on the EVF 4.

The camera body 2 is fixed to a tripod (YES in # 95), the grip 201 is not gripped by hand (YES in # 97), and the remote control mode is set (# 99). YES), that is, when it is presumed that the camera body 2 is set on a tripod or mounted on a base and fixed.
The photographing is permitted (# 103), and the process proceeds to step # 103.

At step # 103, it is determined whether or not the setting relating to the anti-shake mode during normal shooting has been changed. If not, the setting has not been changed (N at # 103).
O), the process ends. If the setting relating to the blur suppression mode has been changed (YES in # 103), the content of the change is determined (# 105). If the blur suppression process is not performed even during hand-held shooting, the blur suppression flag is reset. (That is, the blur suppression processing is not performed) (# 113), and the processing ends.

On the other hand, if the blur suppression processing is performed,
It is determined whether or not the camera body 2 is fixed to a tripod, whether or not the grip unit 201 is gripped by hand, and whether or not the remote control mode is set (# 107, # 10).
9, # 111), the camera body 2 is not fixed to the tripod (NO in # 107), the grip 201 is gripped by hand (# 109 NO), and the remote control mode is not set (# 111). NO), that is, when it is estimated that the photographer holds the camera body 2 by hand and that the photographing is performed by operating the shutter button 206, the blur suppression flag is set (that is, the blur suppression processing is performed). Thus (# 115), the process ends.

The camera body 2 is fixed on a tripod (YES in # 107), the grip 201 is not gripped by hand (YES in # 109), and the remote control mode is set (# 111). YES), that is, when it is estimated that the camera body 2 is set on a tripod or mounted on a base and fixed, the camera shake prevention function is not activated. The blur suppression processing flag is reset (# 113), and the process ends.

According to the flowcharts of FIGS. 14 and 15, for example, when the mode is changed to the blur adjustment mode, if it is estimated that the camera body 2 is fixed, the blur blur is not activated without operating the blur suppression function. When the photographing process is performed in the adjustment mode and it is estimated that the camera body 2 is held by hand, if the blur suppression mode is set, the blur suppression function is operated to activate the blur control mode. If the photographing process is performed and the photographing prohibition mode is set, the photographing process in the blur adjustment mode is prohibited (# 91 to # 1).
01). On the other hand, during normal shooting, when the camera body 2 is fixed, the blur suppression processing is not performed.

As described above, the digital still camera 1 according to the present embodiment determines whether or not the camera main body 2 is held by hand, and in the special shooting mode with the camera main body 2 held by hand. Since a warning is issued when the photographing is performed, the photographer can prevent the image blur in the photographing in the special photographing mode by fixing the camera body 2 to a tripod or the like by the warning.

Although the digital still camera 1 according to the present embodiment has a blur suppression function for suppressing image blur, when the camera body 2 is photographed with the camera body 2 fixed with a tripod or the like. In addition, since the blur suppression function is not operated, it is possible to reduce the adverse effect (unnecessarily long processing time, etc.) of unnecessarily operating the blur suppression function.

Note that the image processing at the time of special photographing may be changed depending on the fixed state of the camera body 2.

[0147]

As described above, according to the present invention,
The camera has a special shooting mode for acquiring a plurality of shot images used for a predetermined image synthesizing process. When the special shooting mode is set, the same subject is exposed at least twice consecutively. In a digital still camera that acquires a plurality of captured images by scanning, it is determined whether the camera body is held by the photographer's hand and the camera body is held by the photographer's hand in shooting in the special shooting mode. When it is determined that there is no camera, a warning is issued, so the photographer can take several measures such as fixing the camera body to a tripod by this warning to obtain multiple shot images for image synthesis with less blurring Can be.

Also, it is determined whether or not the camera body is held by the photographer's hand. If it is determined that the camera body is not held by the photographer's hand, the camera shake preventing function is not operated. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the processing speed in the photographing process from being lowered by operating the blur suppression shooting function unnecessarily during fixed shooting without operating the blur suppression shooting function.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a camera body of a digital still camera according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a view showing an arrangement of main members of the digital still camera.

FIG. 3 is a view showing a structure of a tripod mounting portion.

FIG. 4 is a right side view showing an arrangement of main members built in the digital still camera.

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the digital still camera.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an imaging surface of a color imaging device.

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a method of selecting a shooting mode.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the digital still camera.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image file recorded on a memory card.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a method of recording an image file on a memory card.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a shooting procedure in a blur adjustment mode.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a shooting procedure in a gradation adjustment mode.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a photographing process in the blur suppression mode.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the contents of shooting control in a special shooting mode based on how to hold the camera body and the setting contents of the shooting mode.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing details of shooting control in a special shooting mode based on how to hold the camera body and setting contents of the shooting mode.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a warning display.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing how the camera angle changes when performing an exposure operation continuously.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 Digital Still Camera 101 Lens 102 Imaging Unit 103 Signal Processing Unit 104 Light Emission Control Unit 105 Lens Control Unit 106 Display Unit 107 Operation Unit 108 Card I / F 108 Overall Control Unit (Function Suppressing Means) 108a ROM 108b RAM 108c Exposure Value Calculation Unit 108d Display control unit 108e Recording control unit 108f Reproduction control unit 108g Special exposure control unit 108h Anti-shake processing unit 108i Camera fixed determination unit (determination unit) 109 Card interface 110 Infrared interface 111 Infrared remote controller 2 Camera body 205 Color imaging device 206 Shutter button 207 LCD display unit 208 Power switch 209 Quadruple switch 210 Switch group 211 Pressure sensor (detection means) 212 Remote control receiving unit 213 Tripod mounting unit 213a Screw 213b conductive thin plate 213c, 213d contacts 3 interchangeable lens 4 electronic viewfinder 5 Flash S _POD, S _REM, S _GRP switch (detecting means) MC memory card

──────────────────────────────────────────────────の Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) G03B 17/38 G03B 17/38 B 5C022 17/56 17/56 BC 19/02 19/02 // H04N 101: 00 H04N 101: 00 (72) Inventor Noriyuki Okisu 2-3-13 Azuchicho, Chuo-ku, Osaka City Inside the Osaka International Building Minolta Co., Ltd. (72) Katsuhito Shinkawa 2-chome Azuchicho, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi No. 13 Osaka International Building Minolta Co., Ltd. F-term (reference) 2H020 FB03 FC12 2H054 AA01 2H100 CC07 EE01 FF05 2H102 AA71 BB08 CA03 2H105 AA18 AA36 5C022 AA13 AB17 AB55 AB65 AB68 AC18 AC22 AC26 AC73 AC77 AC78

Claims (5)

[Claims] An image processing apparatus includes a special photographing mode for acquiring a plurality of photographed images used for a predetermined image synthesizing process. When the special photographing mode is set, the same subject is continuously photographed at least twice. In a digital still camera that performs an exposure operation to obtain a plurality of captured images, a determination unit that determines whether or not the camera body is held by a photographer's hand; A digital still camera, comprising: warning means for warning when it is determined that the camera body is held by a photographer's hand. 2. The set exposure time is obtained by dividing the set exposure time into a plurality of pieces and aligning and synthesizing a plurality of captured images obtained by the exposure operation with the divided exposure times. In a digital still camera equipped with a blur suppression shooting function that obtains an image in which image blurring that would have occurred when an exposure operation was performed in a digital still camera, it is determined whether or not the camera body is held by a photographer's hand A digital still camera, comprising: a determination unit for determining whether the camera body is not held by a photographer's hand; . 3. The discriminating means includes a detecting means for detecting that a tripod is not attached to the camera body, and discriminating that the camera body is held by a photographer's hand based on a detection output of the detecting means. The digital still camera according to claim 1, wherein the digital still camera is used. 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determining means includes a detecting means for detecting that a grip portion of the camera body is pressed, and the camera body is held by a photographer's hand based on a detection output of the detecting means. The digital still camera according to claim 1, wherein the digital still camera is used for determining. 5. The discriminating means includes a detecting means for detecting that a release operation is not performed by remote control, and judging that the camera body is held by a photographer's hand based on a detection output of the detecting means. The digital still camera according to claim 1, wherein the digital still camera is used.