Embodiment
Below, with reference to the accompanying drawings, utilize the camera after applying the present invention, illustrate preferred embodiment.The camera of the preferred embodiment of the present invention is digital camera, there is image pickup part, by this image pickup part, shot object image is converted to picture signal, according to the picture signal after this conversion, the display part being configured at the main body back side carries out live view display to shot object image.Cameraman observes live view display, thus determines composition and photography opportunity.When discharging shutter, the picture signal of still image, dynamic image will be recorded in recording medium.When have selected reproduction mode, the picture signal be recorded in recording medium can be read, display part carries out reproduction display to image.When carrying out live view display and reproducing display, measure exterior light brightness, when outside brightness comparatively becomes clear, utilize when display part display image and there is biased gamma curve carry out gamma correction.
Fig. 1 is the integrally-built block diagram based on Circuits System of the camera that first embodiment of the present invention is shown.Phtographic lens 1 is made up of the multiple optical lenses for the formation of shot object image, and 3 pairs, AF portion lens drive to regulate focus.AF portion 3 extracts radio-frequency component from the picture signal that image sensor 9 described later exports, and regulates the position of phtographic lens 1 in the mode making radio-frequency component become peak value.Multiple focusing areas in prior preparation AF portion 3, the picture signal of the focusing area that the region of AF portion 3 residing for the subject of region, the closely side for being detected character facial by face detection portion 17 described later etc. are selected, focuses.
The light path of phtographic lens 1 is configured with aperture 5, shutter 7 and image sensor 9.The light quantity of aperture 5 to the object beam through phtographic lens 1 regulates, and carries out drived control by the opening amount of aperture drive mechanism to aperture 5.Shutter 7 carries out opening and closing to the object beam that have passed phtographic lens 1, controls shutter opening time (shutter speed) by shutter driver.
Image sensor 9 carries out opto-electronic conversion to the shot object image formed by phtographic lens 1, output image signal.As image sensor 9, obviously CCD (Charge Coupled Device can be used, charge coupled device) and the two-dimensional solid imaging apparatus such as CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor, complementary metal oxide semiconductors (CMOS)).
Image sensor 9 is connected with imaging circuit 11.Imaging circuit 11 reads picture signal from image sensor 9, carries out the various process such as amplifying, to A/D converter 13 output image signal.The picture signal that A/D converter 13 will convert to as the picture signal of analog signal as digital signal.
The output of A/D converter 13 is output to image processing part 15.Image processing part 15 carries out the various image procossing such as numeral amplification (digital gain adjustment process), color correction, gamma (γ) correction, contrast correction, black and white/color mode process, live view display process to being carried out the picture signal after A/D conversion by A/D converter 13.Image processing part 15 uses these image procossing, for the picture signal exported from image sensor 9 or the picture signal read from recording medium 25 described later, generates display picture signal.About gamma correction, be carry out gamma correction according to the gamma curve prestored, the mode that becomes output gray level with input gray level to display image, image processing part 15 generates the 2nd display picture signal thus.In the present embodiment, gamma curve comprises common gamma curve and has biased gamma curve, and image processing part 5, according to the instruction from system controller 41, performs gamma correction.
Face detection portion 17, from image processing part 15 received image signal, detects in shot object image whether comprise face.When the result of this detection is for comprising face, detecting its position and size, via image processing part 15, testing result being outputted to system controller 41 described later.
Buffer storage 19, from image processing part 15 received image signal, stores this picture signal temporarily.Menu image recording unit 21 stores menu image, according to the instruction from system controller 41, outputs it to buffer storage 19.Menu image is the image of the picture of various settings for carrying out logging mode, white balance etc.
Compressed and decompressed portion 23, from buffer storage 19 received image signal, is compressed by JPEG mode, TIFF mode etc.Further, image compression is not limited to JPEG mode and TIFF mode, can also apply other compression methods.Recording medium 25 is recording mediums of the picture signal for recording still image and the dynamic image compressed by compressed and decompressed portion 23.When recording image signal, record the information that AF portion 3 performs focusing area when focusing in the lump.In addition, after the picture signal be recorded in recording medium 25 is read, decompressed by compressed and decompressed portion 23.
Be stored in picture signal in buffer storage 19 temporarily and be recorded in recording medium 25 and be imported in LCD Controlling portion 27 by the picture signal after compressed and decompressed portion 23 decompresses.EVF (electronic viewfinder (ElectronicView Finder)) 29 is connected with LCD Controlling portion 27, according to picture signal, and display shot object image.In addition, EVF29 can be spied on by eyepiece portion, observes liquid crystal panel thus.
Equally, be stored in picture signal in buffer storage 19 temporarily and be recorded in recording medium 25 and be imported in LCD Controlling portion 31 by the picture signal after compressed and decompressed portion 23 decompresses.Liquid crystal display part 33 is the large picture liquid crystal panels be connected with LCD Controlling portion 31, is configured at the camera back side etc.Liquid crystal display part 33 is different from EVF29, and user just directly need not can observe picture by eyepiece portion.
External light sensor 35 is configured near liquid crystal display part 33, measures the brightness of exterior light.Operating portion 37 is the functional units for being indicated various action to camera by user.Operating portion 37 comprises the various functional units such as release-push, mode dial, cross key, OK button, mains switch, reproduction button.Operating portion 37 detects the mode of operation of above-mentioned various functional unit, testing result is outputted to system controller 41.
System controller 41 and above-mentioned AF portion 3, aperture 5, shutter 7, image sensor 9, imaging circuit 11, A/D converter 13, image processing part 15, menu image recording unit 21, compressed and decompressed portion 23, recording medium 25, LCD Controlling portion 27,31, external light sensor 35, operating portion 37 be connected.System controller 41 performs process according to the program be stored in the nonvolatile memories such as flash memory, controls the action of camera entirety.
Then, use the flow chart shown in Fig. 2 to Fig. 4 that the action of present embodiment is described.These flow charts are all performed according to the program be stored in nonvolatile memory by system controller 41.Further, the flow chart of the 2nd to the 6th execution mode is performed by system controller 41 too.
The flow process that camera power source shown in Fig. 2 is connected is main flow, starts flow process when power-supply battery loads camera.After starting action, first, judge whether mains switch is connected (S1).Here, the on-off state of the mains switch detected in operating portion 37 judges.
When the result of determination of step S1 is mains switch access failure, enter resting state (S3).Resting state is the state of low-power consumption mode, does not carry out the process except the process except being detected power switching operations state by interrupt processing.
When the result of determination of mains switch connection or step S1 is mains switch connection under the resting state in step S3, then, starts back panel, and start each device (S5).Here be provide power supply to liquid crystal display part 33 and other circuit (device) etc., start action.In the present embodiment, liquid crystal display part 33 and EVF29 are switched by the handover operation parts in operating portion 37, and the side in liquid crystal display part 33 and EVF29 carries out display action, and the opposing party does not carry out display action.But, the display of liquid crystal display part 33 and EVF29 can certainly be carried out simultaneously.
Then, live view action (S7) is carried out.Live view action refers to, the picture signal that image processing part 15 pairs of image sensors 9 obtain processes, and becomes live view display picture signal, carries out live view display according to this picture signal on liquid crystal display part 33.User observes live view display, thus determines composition, determines shutter opportunity.In this live view action, when outside brightness is higher than regulation brightness, use the gamma correction had when biased gamma curve carries out the display of liquid crystal display part 33.Fig. 3 is used to describe the detailed action of this live view action in detail below.
After carrying out live view action, then, judge whether reproduction switch is connected (S9).When carrying out reproduction display to the photographs be recorded in recording medium 25, user can operate reproduction button, therefore in this step, judges whether the reproduction switch linked with the reproduction button of operating portion 37 is connected.
When the result of determination of step S9 is reproduction switch connection, then, carry out reproducing movement (S23).Here be read the picture signal be recorded in recording medium 25, liquid crystal display part 33 reproduces photographs.In this reproducing movement, when outside brightness is higher than regulation brightness, use the gamma correction had when biased gamma curve carries out the display of liquid crystal display part 33.Fig. 4 is used to describe the detailed action of this reproducing movement in detail below.
When the result of determination of step S9 is reproduction switch access failure, then, judge whether 1R switch is connected (S11).When user carries out photography warming-up exercise, can release-push in half push portion 37, therefore, in this step, judge and partly the pressing the 1R switch that action links and whether connect of release-push.
When the result of determination of step S11 is 1R switch connection, perform AF action (S13).AF action refers to, from the picture signal based on the picture signal obtained by image sensor 9, only extract radio-frequency component, in the mode making this radio-frequency component become peak value, is regulated the focal position of phtographic lens 1 by AF portion 3.
After carrying out AF action, then, judge whether 2R switch is connected (S15).If carrying out photographing after warming-up exercise, focus aims at and become the composition that user expects, then user can press release-push further to perform photographing actions.In this step, judge and entirely the pressing the 2R switch that action links and whether connect of release-push.
When the result of determination of step S15 is 2R switch access failure, return step S11.On the other hand, when the result judged is as 2R switch connection, perform photographing actions (S17).Here, A/D conversion is carried out, after image procossing and image compression, by the picture signal record after this compression process in recording medium 25 to the picture signal that image sensor 9 obtains.
At the end of the photographing actions of step S17 or when the result of determination of step S11 is 1R switch access failure or when having carried out the reproducing movement of step S23, then, judge whether mains switch is connected (S19) identically with step S1.Here be that the on-off state of the mains switch detected in operating portion 37 judges.
When the result of determination of step S19 is mains switch connection, return step S7.On the other hand, when the result judged disconnects as mains switch, carry out power supply disconnection process (S21).After carrying out power supply disconnection process, return step S3, enter resting state.
Then, the live view action of the flow chart description of step S7 shown in Fig. 3 is used.After entering live view action, first, shooting action (S31) is carried out.Here be obtain picture signal by image sensor 9.
Then, AF action (S33) is carried out.Here be from the picture signal of the picture signal obtained based on image sensor 9, extract radio-frequency component, the mode that the radio-frequency component extracted to make this is peak value, carried out the focusing of phtographic lens 1 by AF portion 3.
After carrying out AF action, then, light-metering action (S35) is carried out.Here be obtain subject brightness according to the picture signal obtained by image sensor 9.
After carrying out light-metering action, then, image procossing (S37) is carried out.Here being the picture signal according to being obtained by image sensor 9, being converted to the picture signal of live view display by image processing part 15.Usually, the pixel count of image sensor 9 is more than the pixel count needed for live view display, thus as the image procossing in this step, carries out the process reducing pixel count etc.
After carrying out image procossing, then, judge whether external light sensor detects more than 100000lx (lux) (S39).Here be carry out light-metering by external light sensor 35, judge its light value whether as more than 100000lx.And, as described later, whether decision content 100000lx is set to the decision content with biased gamma curve by the gamma curve of the liquid crystal display part 33 of display for switching, and thus according to the display characteristic of liquid crystal display part 33, suitably decides as design load.
When the exterior light brightness that the result of determination of step S39 is external light sensor 35 detection is less than 100000lx, utilize usual set point gamma curve on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S97).In this step, carry out common gamma correction, that is, as shown in Figure 5, relative to the gamma curve 61 (in figure dotted line) of input gray level monotone increasing, gamma correction is carried out to picture signal according to output gray level, liquid crystal display part 33 carries out the image display of live view.
On the other hand, when the exterior light brightness that the result of determination of step S39 is external light sensor 35 detection is more than 100000lx, gamma curve is set as have biased (S91), utilizes the gamma curve of setting on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S93).Here, as gamma curve, be arrange as shown in Figure 5 there is biased gamma curve 62 (in figure solid line), carry out gamma correction according to this gamma curve 62 pairs of picture signals, liquid crystal display part 33 carries out the image display of live view.
Further, this has biased gamma curve 62 relative to not having biased gamma curve 61 and improves dark portion side (in figure on the left of transverse axis).In the example as shown in fig. 5, gamma curve 62 is such curves: add bias to gamma curve 61 simply, saturated in high input value side.But be not limited to this, such as also can determine as follows there is biased gamma curve: add bias in dark portion side, reduce this bias gradually in high input value side and be added with gamma curve or increase bias gradually and be added with gamma curve, reach capacity in high input value side state.
After liquid crystal panel (liquid crystal display part 33) carries out image display, then, the brightness (S95) of the backlight of liquid crystal panel is weakened.LCD Controlling portion 31 reduces the brightness of the backlight of liquid crystal display part 33, realizes the reduction of power consumption.Its reason is, has biased gamma curve and has carried out gamma correction owing to using and to make in shot object image comparatively dark-part become bright, even if thus reduce back light source brightness also can observe confirmation fully.
Like this, in the flow process of live view action, when exterior light too bright and be difficult to the picture of direct viewing liquid crystal display part 33 time, gamma curve is changed to and has biased, carry out gamma correction.Therefore, part darker in shot object image can entirety brighten, even if therefore too bright around, also can observe fully.In this case, in shot object image, bright part is in saturation condition and is showed by white originally, owing to becoming clear, therefore there will not be discomfort around.
Carry out the weakening or show image on liquid crystal panel in S97 of backlight in step S95 after, turn back to original flow process.
Then, the reproducing movement of the flow chart description of step S23 shown in Fig. 4 is used.After entering the flow process of reproducing movement, first, read and select image, carry out image procossing (S101).In reproducing movement, using up-to-date document image etc. as selection image, from recording medium 25, read the picture signal selecting image, carry out decompression in compressed and decompressed portion 23 after, in image processing part 15, carry out image procossing.
After carrying out image reading and image procossing, then, identical with step S39, external light sensor determines whether the exterior light brightness (S103) that there is more than 100000lx.Judge that whether the exterior light brightness when reproducing near liquid crystal display part 33 is excessively bright.
When the result of determination of step S103 be exterior light brightness is not more than 100000lx, identical with step S37, utilize usual set point gamma curve on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S167).Here be, according to the gamma curve 61 shown in Fig. 5, gamma correction is carried out to the picture signal read from recording medium 25, liquid crystal display part 33 carries out the display of reproduced image.
On the other hand, when the result of determination of step S103 be exterior light brightness is more than 100000lx, gamma curve is set as have biased (S161), utilizes the gamma curve of setting on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S163).Because exterior light brightness is at more than 100000lx, thus the vicinity of liquid crystal display part 33 is too bright, is difficult to the picture directly observing liquid crystal display part 33.So, in the same manner as the situation that live view shows, gamma curve is set to and has biased, picture is easily observed.That is, according to there is biased gamma curve 62 shown in Fig. 5, the gamma correction of picture signal is carried out.Comparatively dark-part in shot object image can entirety brighten, even if therefore the surrounding of liquid crystal display part 33 is too bright, also can observe fully.
After liquid crystal panel (liquid crystal display part 33) carries out reproduced image display, then, the brightness (S165) of the backlight of liquid crystal panel is weakened in the same manner as step S95.LCD Controlling portion 31 reduces the brightness of the backlight of liquid crystal display part 33, realizes the reduction of power consumption.
Carried out in step S165 backlight brightness deterioration or carried out in step S167 image display after, then, determine whether the switching (S171) of the display image indicating rear face liquid crystal.In the present embodiment, the switching of reproduced image is undertaken by the operation of cross key etc., thus in this step, by determining whether that operating cross key etc. judges.
When the result of determination of step S171 is the switching instruction having carried out showing image, return step S101, according to switching instruction, carry out the reading selecting image.On the other hand, when result of determination is the switching instruction not carrying out showing image, then, the end operation (S173) having carried out reproduction mode is determined whether.In the present embodiment, the end of reproduction mode by again operating reproduction button to carry out, therefore in this step, according to whether operating reproduction button to judge.
When the result of determination of step S173 is the end operation not carrying out reproduction mode, returns step S101, proceed reproduction mode.On the other hand, when the end operation carrying out reproduction mode, after carrying out the ending process of reproduction mode, turn back to original flow process.
Like this, in the flow process of reproducing movement, identical with the situation of live view action, when reproducing exterior light too bright and be difficult to the picture directly observing liquid crystal display part 33, gamma curve is changed to and has biased, carry out gamma correction.Therefore, the comparatively dark-part in shot object image can entirety brighten, even if therefore too bright around, also can observe fully.In this case, in shot object image, bright part is in saturation condition and is showed by white originally, owing to becoming clear, therefore there will not be discomfort around.
As mentioned above, in the 1st execution mode of the present invention, generate display image signals or the 2nd display picture signal, when outside brightness is greater than the value predetermined, show the image based on the 2nd display picture signal, when outside brightness is less than the value predetermined, show the image based on display picture signal, this display image signals generates according to the picture signal from image pickup part or recording medium, 2nd display picture signal uses to be had biased gamma curve and carries out gamma correction to this display picture signal and obtain.Therefore, even if when too becoming clear around, the observability of image displaying part also can be improved.In addition, can also according to the light quantity detected by external light sensor to change the amount of bias of gamma curve.The light quantity detected is larger, then more increase amount of bias, can improve observability accordingly thus with the change of lightness around.
Then, use Fig. 6 to Fig. 8, second embodiment of the present invention is described.In the 1st execution mode, when outside brightness is high brightness, gamma curve is changed to have biased, and in the 2nd execution mode, except the condition that outside brightness is high brightness, also just gamma curve to be changed to when to show image be below regulation lightness have biased.Specifically, obtain the histogram of image, when the pixel that pixel intensity is less than the value predetermined is more, gamma curve is changed to have biased.
The circuit structure of present embodiment is identical with the block diagram shown in Fig. 1 in the 1st execution mode, thus detailed.In addition, the action that camera power source is connected is also identical with the flow chart shown in Fig. 2, thus detailed.But the flow chart of live view action and reproducing movement is different from the 1st execution mode, is therefore described centered by difference.
In the flow process of the live view action shown in Fig. 6, the process of each step of step S31 ~ S39, step S91 ~ S97 is identical with the flow process of the live view action of the 1st execution mode shown in Fig. 3, therefore identical number of steps is marked to the step of carrying out same treatment, detailed.
After entering the flow process of live view action, carry out shooting action (S31), AF action (S33), light-metering action (S35), image procossing (S37), when the result of determination of step S39 be external light sensor more than 100000lx detected time, then, the histogram (S41) of liquid crystal panel display image is calculated.Here, for the display picture signal generated according to the picture signal obtained by image sensor 9, according to the data of each pixel, histogram is obtained.As shown in Figure 8, histogram gets location of pixels on transverse axis, and the longitudinal axis is got signal output, the i.e. input gray level of each pixel.Histogram shown in Fig. 8 shows the histogram relevant with 1 row in display picture signal, also can use the histogram relevant with multirow, the histogram relevant with whole display picture signal or the histogram relevant with the display picture signal in a part of region of regulation can also be used.
After calculating histogram, then, according to histogram, judge whether the pixel of gray scale less than 135 exists more than 50% (S43) in image.In the present embodiment, the input gray level (signal output) of each pixel is 8, and thus the value of each pixel is between peak 255 and minimum 0.Here, with 135 in the middle of it for benchmark, judge that whether the ratio of the pixel less than this decision content is as more than 50%.Further, gray scale 135 and 50% is only example, suitably can determine after the characteristic considering liquid crystal display part 33.
Be that the pixel of gray scale less than 135 is when image memory is more than 50% in the result of determination of step S43, identical with the situation of the 1st execution mode, gamma curve is set as have biased (S91), utilize the gamma curve after setting on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S93), carry out the brightness deterioration (S95) of the backlight of liquid crystal panel.Owing to being judged to be that in step S39 exterior light brightness is high brightness and is judged to be that in step S43 the pixel darker than regulation brightness exists more than half, thus identical with the 1st execution mode, gamma curve is changed to have biased, gamma correction is carried out to picture signal, even if obtain the picture also easily observed when exterior light is high brightness thus.
On the other hand, when the result of determination of step S39 be exterior light brightness not more than the result of determination of 100000lx or step S43 be the pixel of gray scale less than 135 in image not more than 50%, identical with the 1st execution mode, utilize usual set point gamma curve on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S97).In this case, although exterior light is not high brightness or exterior light, to be high brightness from the histogram shot object image of display image less compared with dark-part, also can not be difficult to observe even if thus utilize common gamma curve to carry out gamma correction.
Carried out in step S95 the backlight of liquid crystal panel brightness deterioration or carried out in the step s 97 image display after, turn back to original flow process.
Then, use the flow chart shown in Fig. 7, the reproducing movement of present embodiment is described.In the flow process of the reproducing movement shown in Fig. 7, the process of each step of step S101 ~ S103, step S161 ~ S173 is identical with the flow process of the reproducing movement of the 1st execution mode shown in Fig. 4, therefore identical number of steps is marked to the step of carrying out same treatment, detailed.
After entering the flow process of reproducing movement, read and select image, carry out image procossing (S101), judge whether external light sensor detects more than 100000lx (S103).When the result that this judges detects more than 100000lx as external light sensor, then, the histogram (S111) of liquid crystal panel display image is calculated.Here, for the display picture signal generated according to the picture signal read out from recording medium 25, the data according to each pixel obtain histogram.As shown in Figure 8 above, histogram gets location of pixels on transverse axis, and the signal that the longitudinal axis is got each pixel exports (input gray level).
After calculating histogram, then, identical with step S43 (see Fig. 6), according to histogram, judge whether the pixel of gray scale less than 135 exists more than 50% (S113) in image.In the present embodiment, identical with the situation that live view shows, when reproducing display, the input gray level (signal output) of each pixel is also 8, thus the value of each pixel is between peak 255 and minimum 0, with 135 in the middle of it for benchmark, judge that whether the ratio of the pixel less than this decision content is as more than 50%.Further, when reproducing movement, gray scale 135 and 50% is only example, suitably can determine after the characteristic considering liquid crystal display part 33.
When the pixel that the result of determination of step S113 is gray scale less than 135 does not exist more than 50% in image or the result of determination of step S103 be the brightness of exterior light is not more than 100000lx, identical with step S97, utilize usual set point gamma curve on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S167).Here be, according to the gamma curve 61 shown in Fig. 5, gamma correction is carried out to the picture signal read out from recording medium 25, liquid crystal display part 33 carries out the display of reproduced image.
On the other hand, be that the pixel of gray scale less than 135 is when image memory is more than 50% in the result of determination of step S113, gamma curve is set as have biased (S161), the gamma curve set by utilization carries out image display (S163) on liquid crystal panel.Brightness due to exterior light is more than 100000lx and existing compared with dark-part in reproduced image is more than half, therefore, reproduced image is darker, and the vicinity of liquid crystal display part 33 is excessively bright, be difficult to the picture directly observing liquid crystal display part 33, therefore show identical to situation with live view, gamma curve is set to and has biased, picture is easily observed.
After liquid crystal panel carries out the display of reproduced image, then, identical with step S95, weaken the back light source brightness (S165) of liquid crystal panel.LCD Controlling portion 31 reduces the brightness of the backlight of liquid crystal display part 33, realizes the reduction of power consumption.
Carried out in step S165 backlight brightness deterioration or carried out in step S167 image display after, then, determine whether the switching (S171) of the display image carrying out rear face liquid crystal, when result of determination is the switching carrying out showing image, return step S101.On the other hand, when not carrying out the switching showing image, then, determine whether to have carried out reproduction mode end operation (S173).Be, when not carrying out end operation, return step S101 in result of determination, on the other hand, when having carried out end operation, carry out ending process of reproducing movement, having turned back to original flow process.
Like this, in second embodiment of the present invention, the pixel in the histogram of the Luminance Distribution of the picture element signal of formation display image, below regulation brightness exceedes specified quantity, be judged to be that display image is the lightness of below regulation lightness.Therefore, it is possible to judge accurately according to the Luminance Distribution of each pixel, the observability of image displaying part can be improved further when high brightness.Further, can also the quantity of pixel according to the rules below brightness, change the amount of bias of gamma curve.Pixel count below regulation brightness is more, then more increase amount of bias, thus can change with the lightness of image of display and improve observability accordingly.
Then, use Fig. 9 and Figure 10, third embodiment of the present invention is described.In the 2nd execution mode, except outside brightness is this condition of high brightness, also just gamma curve to be changed to when to show image be below regulation lightness have biased.Specifically, obtain the histogram of pixel, when the pixel that pixel intensity is less than the value predetermined is more, gamma curve is changed to have biased.On the other hand, in the 3rd execution mode, except outside brightness is this condition of high brightness, also obtain the histogrammic mean value of image, when this mean value is less than setting, just gamma curve is changed to have biased.
The circuit structure of present embodiment is identical with the block diagram shown in Fig. 1 in the 1st execution mode, thus detailed.In addition, the action that camera power source is connected is also identical with the flow chart shown in Fig. 2, thus detailed.But flow chart and the 1st, the 2nd execution mode of live view action and reproducing movement are different, are therefore described centered by difference.
In the flow process of the live view action shown in Fig. 9, the process of each step of step S31 ~ S39, step S91 ~ S97 is identical with the flow process of the live view action of the 1st execution mode shown in Fig. 3, therefore identical number of steps is marked to the step of carrying out same treatment, detailed.
After entering the flow process of live view action, carry out shooting action (S31), AF action (S33), light-metering action (S35), image procossing (S37), when the result of determination of step S39 be external light sensor more than 100000lx detected time, then, the histogram (S51) that liquid crystal panel shows image is calculated in the same manner as step S41 (see Fig. 6).Here be obtain histogram in the same manner as curve chart shown in Fig. 8.
After calculating histogram, then, according to the mean value (S53) of histogram calculation input gray level.Here, by total additive value of the input gray level (signal output) of all pixels of subject area divided by total pixel number, thus mean value is calculated.Subject area can be a part of region of the regulation such as the whole region of display picture signal or the central portion of picture.
After calculating the mean value of input gray level, then, histogrammic mean value is judged whether as gray scale less than 135 (S55).In the present embodiment, the input gray level (signal output) of each pixel is 8, and thus the value of each pixel is between peak 255 and minimum 0.Here, with 135 in the middle of it for benchmark, judge whether histogrammic mean value is less than this decision content.Further, gray scale 135 is only example, suitably can determine after the characteristic considering liquid crystal display part 33.
When the result of determination of step S55 be histogram mean value is gray scale less than 135, in the same manner as the 1st, the 2nd execution mode, gamma curve is set as have biased (S91), utilize the gamma curve of setting on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S93), carry out the brightness deterioration (S95) of the backlight of liquid crystal panel.
On the other hand, when the result of determination of step S39 be exterior light brightness not more than the result of determination of 100000lx or step S55 be mean value be greater than gray scale 135, in the same manner as the 1st, the 2nd execution mode, utilize usual set point gamma curve on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S97).In this case, although exterior light is not high brightness or exterior light, to be high brightness from the histogram shot object image of display image less compared with dark-part, also can not be difficult to observe even if thus utilize common gamma curve to carry out gamma correction.
Carried out in step S95 the backlight of liquid crystal panel brightness deterioration or carried out in the step s 97 image display after, turn back to original flow process.
Then, use the flow chart shown in Figure 10, the reproducing movement of present embodiment is described.In the flow process of the reproducing movement shown in Figure 10, the process of each step of step S101 ~ S103, step S161 ~ S173 is identical with the flow process of the reproducing movement of the 1st execution mode shown in Fig. 4, therefore identical number of steps is marked to the step of carrying out same treatment, detailed.
After entering the flow process of reproducing movement, read and select image, carry out image procossing (S101), judge whether external light sensor detects more than 100000lx (S103).When the result that this judges detects more than 100000lx as external light sensor, then, the histogram (S121) that liquid crystal panel shows image is calculated in the same manner as step S111 (see Fig. 7).
After calculating histogram, then, identical with step S53 (see Fig. 9), according to histogram, calculate the mean value (S123) of gray scale.After obtaining histogrammic mean value, then, mean value is judged whether as gray scale less than 135 (S125) in the same manner as step S55.
When the result of determination of step S125 be result of determination that histogrammic mean value is greater than gray scale 135 or step S103 be exterior light brightness is not more than 100000lx, same with step S97, utilize usual set point gamma curve on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S167).Here be, according to the gamma curve 61 shown in Fig. 5, gamma correction is carried out to the picture signal read from recording medium 25, liquid crystal display part 33 carries out the display of reproduced image.
On the other hand, when the result of determination of step S125 be histogrammic mean value is gray scale less than 135, gamma curve is set as have biased (S161), utilizes the gamma curve of setting on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S163).In this case, gamma curve is set to and has biased, picture is easily observed.
After liquid crystal panel (liquid crystal display part 33) carries out the display of reproduced image, then, the brightness (S165) of the backlight of liquid crystal panel is weakened in the same manner as step S95.LCD Controlling portion 31 reduces the brightness of the backlight of liquid crystal display part 33, realizes the reduction of power consumption.
Carried out in step S165 backlight brightness deterioration or carried out in step S167 image display after, then, determine whether the switching (S171) of the display image carrying out rear face liquid crystal, when result of determination be do not switch, return step S101.On the other hand, when result of determination is the switching carrying out showing image, then, determine whether to have carried out reproduction mode end operation (S173).Be, when not carrying out end operation, return step S101 in result of determination, on the other hand, when having carried out end operation, carry out ending process of reproducing movement, having turned back to original flow process.
Like this, in third embodiment of the present invention, in the Luminance Distribution histogram of picture element signal forming display image, obtain the average gray of display image, be judged to be that when this mean value is more than setting display image is the lightness of more than regulation lightness.Therefore, it is possible to average according to the Luminance Distribution of each pixel, judge accurately, improve the observability of image displaying part when high brightness further.Further, according to the mean value of gray scale, the amount of bias of gamma curve can also be changed.The mean value of gray scale is less, then more increase amount of bias, thus can change with the lightness of image of display and improve observability accordingly.
Then, use Figure 11 and Figure 12, fourth embodiment of the present invention is described.In the 3rd execution mode, except outside brightness is this condition of high brightness, also obtain the histogram of the image of whole picture, just gamma curve is changed to when the pixel that average gray is less than predetermined value is more have biased.On the other hand, in the 4th execution mode, except outside brightness is this condition of high brightness, just gamma curve is changed to when to show image be below regulation lightness have biased.Specifically, calculate the histogram in the region through face recognition, the pixel of the gray scale less than 135 in this face recognition region, in the darker situation of image memory more than 50%, carries out the biased of gamma curve.
The circuit structure of present embodiment is identical with the block diagram shown in Fig. 1 in the 1st execution mode, thus detailed.In addition, the action that camera power source is connected is also identical with the flow chart shown in Fig. 2, thus detailed.But the flow chart of live view action and reproducing movement is different from the 1st to the 3rd execution mode, is therefore described centered by difference.
In the flow process of the live view action shown in Figure 11, the process of each step of step S31 ~ S39, step S91 ~ S97 is identical with the flow process of the live view action of the 1st execution mode shown in Fig. 3, therefore identical number of steps is marked to the step of carrying out same treatment, detailed.
After entering live view action, the flow chart shown in from step S31 to step S39 and Fig. 3, Fig. 6, Fig. 9 is identical, thus omits the description.When the result of determination of step S39 be external light sensor more than 100000lx detected, then, determine whether to there is face recognition (S61).The picture signal that face detection portion 17 processes according to image processing part 15, detecting in shot object image whether there is face, when there is face, detecting its position and size.Therefore, in this step 61, the testing result according to face detection portion 17 judges.
When the result of determination of step S61 is for existing face recognition, then, the histogram (S63) in face recognition region is calculated.Here, in the same manner as the histogram shown in Fig. 8 to face recognition region compute histograms.
After calculating histogram to face recognition region, then, according to histogram, judge whether the pixel of gray scale less than 135 exists more than 50% (S65) in image.Here be the pixel detecting gray scale less than 135 in the histogram in the face recognition region that step S63 calculates, judge whether these pixels occupy more than 50% in the pixel in face recognition region.The meaning of gray scale 135 identical with the meaning in the step S113 of the 2nd execution mode (also identical in the 3rd ~ 5th execution mode described later).Further, in the present embodiment, gray scale 135 and 50% is only example, suitably can determine according to the characteristic of liquid crystal display part 33.
When the pixel that the result of determination of step S65 is gray scale less than 135 do not exist in image more than 50% or the result of determination of step S39 be external light sensor more than 100000lx do not detected, utilize usual set point gamma curve to carry out image display on liquid crystal panel.
On the other hand, be that the pixel of gray scale less than 135 is when image memory is more than 50% in the result of determination of step S65, perform, for utilizing, there is step S91, S93, S95 that biased gamma curve carries out gamma correction etc., the process of these steps is identical with the process of Fig. 3, Fig. 6, Fig. 9, thus detailed.After having carried out the process of step S95 or S97, turn back to original flow process.
Then, use the flow chart shown in Figure 12, the reproducing movement of present embodiment is described.After entering the flow process of reproducing movement, identical with the flow chart shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 7, Figure 10 from step S101 to S103, thus omit the description.When the result of determination of step S103 be external light sensor more than 100000lx detected, then, determine whether to there is face recognition (S131).If record face recognition result in the lump during recording image signal in the photographing actions (see Fig. 2) of step S17, then utilize this record result.When not carrying out the record of this face recognition result, also by face detection portion 17 according to the picture signal read out from recording medium 25, face recognition can be carried out.
When the result of determination of step S131 is for existing face recognition, then, the histogram (S133) in face recognition region is calculated.Here, use the picture signal read out from recording medium 25, the picture signal be judged as in step S131 in the region in face recognition region, calculate the histogram in face recognition region identically with Fig. 8.
After calculating the histogram in face recognition region, then, with step S65 (see Figure 11) in the same manner, according to histogram, judge whether the pixel of gray scale less than 135 exists more than 50% (S135) in the image in face recognition region.When the result that this judges as the pixel of gray scale less than 135 when region memory is more than 50%, perform step S161 ~ S165.These process are identical with the flow chart shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 7, Figure 10, thus omit the description.
On the other hand, when the pixel that the result of determination of step S135 is gray scale less than 135 do not exist in region more than 50% or the result of determination of step S131 to be the result of determination of not carrying out face recognition or step S103 be external light sensor do not detect more than 100000lx, utilize usual set point gamma curve on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S167).
Carried out in step S165 backlight brightness deterioration or utilize in step S167 usual set point gamma curve carried out on liquid crystal panel image display after, then, carry out the judgement of step S171, S173.These judgements are identical with the flow chart shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 7, Figure 10, thus omit the description.When the result of determination of step S173 is for occurring reproduction mode end operation, the process of end of reproduction action, turns back to original flow process.
As mentioned above, in fourth embodiment of the present invention, pixel in the Luminance Distribution histogram of picture element signal forming the face area detected by face detection portion 17 in display image, below regulation brightness exceedes specified quantity, be judged to be that display image is below regulation lightness, in this case, be biased gamma curve, the gamma curve after using this biased carries out the gamma correction of picture signal.Therefore, it is possible to judge accurately face recognition region, the observability of image displaying part can be improved further when high brightness.Usually, personage is as main subject often, according to the present embodiment, easily can observe the face portion of personage.
Further, in the present embodiment, whether the pixel that determined the gray scale less than 135 in face recognition region exists more than 50%.But, be not limited thereto, can certainly judge the average gray in face recognition region be whether setting (such as gray scale 135) below.
Then, use Figure 13 and Figure 14, fifth embodiment of the present invention is described.In the 4th execution mode, except outside brightness is this condition of high brightness, also obtain the histogram in face recognition region, just gamma curve is changed under the pixel of gray scale less than 135 exists the darker situation of more than 50% have biased.On the other hand, in the 5th execution mode, except outside brightness is this condition of high brightness, when to show image be below regulation lightness gamma curve changed to have biased.Specifically, calculate the histogram of focusing area, in the darker situation of the pixel existence more than 50% of the gray scale less than 135 in this focusing area, carry out the biased of gamma curve.
The circuit structure of present embodiment is identical with the block diagram shown in Fig. 1 in the 1st execution mode, thus detailed.In addition, the action that camera power source is connected is also identical with the flow chart shown in Fig. 2, thus detailed.But the flow chart of live view action and reproducing movement is different from the 1st to the 4th execution mode, is therefore described centered by difference.
In the flow process of the live view action shown in Figure 13, the process of each step of step S31 ~ S39, step S91 ~ S97 is identical with the flow process of the live view action of the 1st execution mode shown in Fig. 3, therefore identical number of steps is marked to the step of carrying out same treatment, detailed.
After entering the flow process of live view action, the flow chart shown in from step S31 to step S39 and Fig. 3, Fig. 6, Fig. 9, Figure 11 is identical, thus omits the description.When the result of determination of step S39 be external light sensor more than 100000lx detected, then, calculate the histogram (S71) of focusing area.
About focusing area, in the camera only with 1 focusing area, according to the picture signal compute histograms of this focusing area.In addition, for the camera being provided with multiple focusing area, in step S71, according to the picture signal of focusing area used during focusing, compute histograms.When having multiple focusing area, focusing area used during focusing is such as hithermost subject, has carried out the region etc. of face recognition.
After calculating the histogram of focusing area, then, according to histogram, judge whether the pixel of gray scale less than 135 exists more than 50% (S73) in image.Here, be used in the histogram calculated in step S71, judge whether the pixel of the gray scale less than 135 in the pixel in focusing area exists more than 50% in image.
When the pixel that the result of determination of step S73 is gray scale less than 135 do not exist in image more than 50% or the result of determination of step S39 be external light sensor more than 100000lx do not detected, utilize usual set point gamma curve on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S97).
On the other hand, be that the pixel of gray scale less than 135 is when image memory is more than 50% in the result of determination of step S73, perform step S91, S93, S95, the process in these steps is identical with the process of Fig. 3, Fig. 6, Fig. 9, Figure 11, thus detailed.After having carried out the process of step S95 or S97, turn back to original flow process.
Then, use the flow chart shown in Figure 14, the reproducing movement of present embodiment is described.After entering the flow process of reproducing movement, identical with the flow chart shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 7, Figure 10 from step S101 to S103, thus omit the description.When the result of determination of step S103 be external light sensor more than 100000lx detected, then, calculate the histogram (S141) of focusing area.
Carry out information with picture signal together with the record relevant to defocused region by with when AF portion 3 is at photographing actions in step S17 (see Fig. 2), use information now carrys out the focusing area in determination step S141.After determining focusing area, use the picture signal in this region, compute histograms in the same manner as Fig. 8.
After calculating the histogram of focusing area, then, according to histogram, judge whether the pixel of gray scale less than 135 exists more than 50% (S143) in image.Here, be used in the histogram calculated in step S141, judge whether the pixel of the gray scale less than 135 in the pixel in focusing area exists more than 50% in image.
In the result of determination of step S143 be the pixel of gray scale less than 135 do not exist in the image of focusing area more than 50% or the result of determination of step S103 be external light sensor when more than 100000lx not detected, utilize usual set point gamma curve on liquid crystal panel, carry out image display (S167).
On the other hand, when the result of determination of step S143 be the pixel of gray scale less than 135 when the image memory of focusing area is more than 50%, perform step S161 ~ S165.These process are identical with the flow chart shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 7, Figure 10, Figure 12, thus omit the description.
Carried out in step S165 backlight brightness deterioration or utilize in step S167 usual set point gamma curve carried out on liquid crystal panel image display after, then, carry out the judgement of step S171, S173.These judgements are identical with the flow chart shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 7, Figure 10, Figure 12, thus omit the description.In the result judged of step S173 as when there is reproduction mode end operation, the process of end of reproduction action, turns back to original flow process.
As mentioned above, in fifth embodiment of the present invention, pixel in the Luminance Distribution histogram of picture element signal forming the focusing area set by AF portion 3 in display image, below regulation brightness exceedes specified quantity, be judged to be that display image is below regulation lightness.In this case, use has the gamma correction that biased gamma curve carries out picture signal.Therefore, it is possible to judge accurately focusing area, the observability of image displaying part can be improved further when high brightness.Usually, often at the region memory as focusing area in main subject, according to the present embodiment, easily can observe the part of main subject.
Further, in the present embodiment, whether the pixel that determined the gray scale less than 135 in focusing area exists more than 50%.But, be not limited thereto, can certainly judge the average gray of focusing area be whether setting (such as gray scale 135) below.
Then, use Figure 15 to Figure 17, sixth embodiment of the present invention is described.In the 1st to the 5th execution mode, describe the example using liquid crystal display part 33 as display part.On the other hand, the 6th execution mode uses organic EL (also referred to as Organic Light Emitting Diode, OLED (Organic Light-emitting diode)) as the example of display part.
Figure 15 is the integrally-built block diagram based on Circuits System of the camera that present embodiment is shown.Compared with the circuit structure of the 1st execution mode shown in Fig. 1, the difference of the circuit structure of present embodiment is, have in the 1st execution mode LCD Controlling portion 27,29, EVF29 and liquid crystal display part 33, and present embodiment has organic EL control part 51 and organic EL53.Therefore describe these differences in detail, for common element, omit the description.Further, in the block diagram of Figure 15, show power-supply battery 55 and power control part 57, and they also all possessing in the block diagram of Fig. 1, is abridged circuit element for convenience of explanation.
Organic EL control part 51 is connected with buffer storage 19 and recording medium 25, input is stored in live view image in buffer storage 19, the picture signal of menu image and the picture signal of photographs that reads out from recording medium 25 temporarily, carries out the control for showing image on organic EL53.Organic EL53 is identical with liquid crystal display part 33, and be configured at the camera back side etc., user just directly need not can observe image by eyepiece portion.Further, in the present embodiment EVF is not set, but also can be uniformly set the EVF of liquid crystal with the 1st execution mode, also can form EVF by organic EL.
Power-supply battery 55 is the batteries that can load in camera body, is connected with power control part 57.Power control part 57 controls the electric power provided from power-supply battery 55, carries out power supply supply to each elements such as the organic EL control part 51 in camera, organic EL53.In addition, power control part 57 is connected with system controller 41, carries out Energy control according to the instruction of system controller 41.In addition, power control part 57 can also detect the amount of power consumption being supplied to organic EL53 etc.
Below, use the flow chart shown in Figure 16 and Figure 17, the action of present embodiment is described.Here, the action that camera power source is connected is identical with the flow chart of the 1st execution mode shown in Fig. 2, thus detailed.The flow chart of live view action and reproducing movement is different from the 1st execution mode, is therefore described centered by difference.
First, use Figure 16 that live view action is described.After entering the flow process of shown live view action, the flow chart of the 1st execution mode shown in the step S31 started most to step S37 and Fig. 3 is identical, thus detailed.Carried out image procossing in step S37 after, then, utilize usual set point gamma curve on organic EL panel, carry out image display (S38).Here, first, organic EL53 shows live view image.Now, as shown in Figure 5, setting does not have biased gamma curve 61 (in figure dotted line) as gamma curve, carries out gamma correction according to this gamma curve 61 pairs of picture signals, and organic EL53 carries out the image display of live view.After organic EL53 has carried out live view display, then, judge whether external light sensor detects more than 100000lx (S39).
When the result of determination of step S39 be external light sensor more than 100000lx detected, then, judge whether the current sinking of organic EL is below setting (S81).At the 2nd execution mode in the 5th execution mode, calculate the histogram of display image, according to this histogram, judge in shot object image, whether have a lot of darker part, in the present embodiment, not compute histograms, but according to the current sinking of organic EL, judge in shot object image, whether there is a lot of darker part.When having a lot of bright part and picture is become clear in shot object image, the current sinking of organic EL can become large, and when having a lot of darker part and make picture dimmed in shot object image, the current sinking of organic EL can diminish.Therefore, in the present embodiment, detected the current sinking of organic EL by power control part 57, according to the current sinking that this detects, judge the picture lightness of organic EL53.Therefore, about setting, can consider that the characteristic of organic EL53 is suitably defined as design load.
When the current sinking that the result of determination of step S81 is organic EL is below setting, then, gamma curve is set as have biased (S91), the gamma curve set by utilization shows image (S99) on organic EL panel.Here, as shown in Figure 5, the gamma curve 62 (in figure solid line) after biased is set as gamma curve, carries out gamma correction according to this gamma curve 62 pairs of picture signals, organic EL53 carries out the image display of live view.
Carried out on organic EL panel in step S99 image display or the result of determination that the current sinking that the result of determination of step S81 is organic EL is greater than setting or step S39 be external light sensor do not detect 100000lx, turn back to original flow process.
Then, use Figure 17 that reproducing movement is described.After entering the flow process of reproducing movement, the flow chart of the 1st execution mode shown in step S101 and the Fig. 4 started most is identical, thus detailed.Carry out selecting the reading of image and image procossing in step S101 after, then, utilize usual set point gamma curve on organic EL panel, carry out image display (S102).Here, in the same manner as step S38, setting does not have biased gamma curve 61, carries out gamma correction, organic EL53 is shown as reproduced image according to this gamma curve 61 to the picture signal of the photographs read out from recording medium 25.After organic EL panel has carried out image display, judge whether external light sensor detects more than 100000lx (S103).
The result of determination of step S103 be external light sensor more than 100000lx detected time, then, judge in the same manner as step S81 whether the current sinking of organic EL is below setting (S151).As mentioned above, the current sinking of organic EL depends on picture lightness, thus in this step, is detected the current sinking of organic EL by power control part 57, according to the current sinking that this detects, judges the picture lightness of organic EL53.
When the current sinking that the result of determination of step S151 is organic EL is below setting, then, gamma curve is set as have biased (S161), the gamma curve set by utilization shows image (S163) on organic EL panel.Here, as shown in Figure 5, the gamma curve 62 (in figure solid line) after biased is set as gamma curve, carries out gamma correction according to this gamma curve 62 pairs of picture signals, organic EL53 carries out the display of reproduced image.
Carried out on organic EL panel in step S164 image display or the result of determination that the current sinking that the result of determination of step S151 is organic EL is greater than setting or step S103 be external light sensor more than 100000lx do not detected, then, the switching (S172) of the display image indicating the organic EL in the back side is determined whether.In the present embodiment, the switching of reproduced image is undertaken by the operation of cross key etc., thus in this step by determining whether that operating cross key etc. judges.
When the result of determination of step S172 is the switching instruction having carried out showing image, return step S101.On the other hand, when result of determination is the switching instruction not carrying out showing image, then, the end operation (S173) having carried out reproduction mode is determined whether.In the present embodiment, the end of reproduction mode by again operating reproduction button to carry out, thus in this step by determining whether to operate reproduction button to judge.On the other hand, in the result that this judges as when there is the end operation of reproduction mode, original flow process is turned back to.
Like this, in the 6th execution mode, adopt organic EL as the display part showing live view image and reproduced image, when the current sinking of organic EL is less than setting, gamma curve is biased, carries out gamma correction.Therefore, in the present embodiment, even if too bright, the observability of image displaying part can also be improved around.In addition, in the present embodiment, not compute histograms, but the lightness being detected picture by the current sinking detecting organic EL, therefore easily processed.
Further, eliminate EVF29 in the present embodiment, EVF29 can certainly be set together with organic EL53, observe image by view finder.
As mentioned above, in the embodiments of the present invention, detect the brightness of exterior light, judge whether exterior light brightness is more than regulation brightness, when being judged to be that exterior light brightness is more than regulation brightness, for display picture signal, gamma curve is biased, generate the 2nd display image, show.Therefore, it is possible to improve the observability of image displaying part when high brightness.
Further, in the embodiments of the present invention, when exterior light is high brightness, use has biased gamma curve and carries out gamma correction to liquid crystal display part 33 and organic EL53.But, be not limited thereto, also similarly can carry out gamma correction to EVF29.Thereby, it is possible to the gamma correction of general image handling part 15, image procossing is simplified.
In addition, in the embodiments of the present invention, describe the example be applied in the camera with camera function and Presentation Function both sides.But be not limited thereto, the present invention can certainly be applied to does not possess camera function, and only possesses in the image display device of Presentation Function.
In addition, in the embodiments of the present invention, using digital camera as the equipment for photographing, being illustrated, but, camera can be digital single-lens reflex camera, also can be compact digital camera, can also be the dynamic image such as video camera, film camera camera, in addition, can also be built in the camera in portable phone, personal digital assistant device (PDA:Personal Digital Assist, personal digital assistant), game station etc.
The invention is not restricted to above-mentioned execution mode, implementation phase can be out of shape inscape in the scope not departing from its purport and realize.Various invention can also be formed by the appropriately combined of the multiple inscapes disclosed in above-mentioned execution mode.Such as, the several inscapes in all inscapes shown in execution mode can be deleted.Inscape in all right appropriately combined different execution mode.