JP2010104011A - Formation of image file - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To add desired image processing conditions to an image file which does not contain image processing condition in image processing. <P>SOLUTION: A CPU 200 displays image data of an image file received through a memory card MC or a connection cable CV on a display screen of a display device 20. The CPU 200 displays color space parameter input through an input device 240 and image data reflecting a color correction parameter on a display screen of the display device 20 together with original image data. When the CPU 200 detects an application request of set color space parameter and color correction parameter, it adds the set color space parameter and color correction parameter to the image file as image processing control information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image file generation technique for generating an image file by adding additional information to existing image data.

  An imaging device capable of generating an image file including image data and image processing conditions of the image data in the image processing device, and a printer capable of executing image processing using the image file generated by the imaging device are put into practical use It has become. By using such an imaging device, it is possible to specify desired image processing in the printer at the time of shooting. Therefore, desired image processing or appropriate image processing can be performed without specifying image processing conditions when outputting image data. Can be output.

  However, in order to obtain the above-described advantage, there is a problem that an image file generated by an imaging device that can generate an image file including image processing conditions together with image data must be used. That is, it was generated when using an image file taken using an imaging device that cannot generate an image file including image processing conditions together with the image data, or before the image output system using the image file was put into practical use. When image data is used, the above advantages cannot be obtained.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above problem, and an object of the present invention is to add desired image processing conditions to an image file that does not include image processing conditions during image processing.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, a first aspect of the present invention provides an image file generation device that generates an image file including image processing control information that specifies processing conditions for image data in the image processing device. An image file generation device according to a first aspect of the present invention sets original image data display means for displaying input image data, and image processing conditions to be executed on the image data in the image processing device. Image processing condition setting means, reflected image data display means for displaying image data reflecting the set image processing conditions, and image processing conditions set for the displayed reflected image data are selected. An image processing condition selecting means, an image processing control information generating means for generating the image processing control information based on the selected image processing condition, and the generated image processing control information and the image data are stored in association with each other. And an image file generation means for generating an image file to be performed.

  According to the image file generation device of the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to generate an image file that stores input image data and image processing control information for the image data in association with each other. That is. Desired image processing conditions can be added to an image file that does not include image processing conditions during image processing. Therefore, even an image file that originally does not have image processing control information can be provided with image processing control information. In an image processing apparatus that executes image processing with reference to image processing control information, Image processing can be executed by specifying processing conditions.

  In the image file generation device according to the first aspect of the present invention, the image processing condition setting means may include image processing condition display means for displaying the set image processing conditions. The image processing condition set by the image processing condition setting unit may include at least one of a color space conversion processing condition and a color correction processing condition. In such a case, the image processing apparatus can faithfully reproduce the image data based on the color space information, and can output the image data according to the preference based on the color correction information.

  The image file generation device according to the first aspect of the present invention further includes a storage device that stores scene-specific processing conditions in which a plurality of image processing parameters are combined in advance according to a captured scene, and the image processing condition setting unit The image processing conditions set by may be the scene-specific processing conditions. In such a case, the image processing conditions can be easily set by selecting a shooting scene.

  In the image file generation device according to the first aspect of the present invention, the original image data display means and the reflected image data display means display the image data and the image data reflecting the image processing conditions on the same screen. May be displayed in parallel. In such a case, the image processing conditions can be set more appropriately with reference to the image data reflecting the image processing conditions.

  The image file generation device according to the first aspect of the present invention may further include a printing unit that prints the image data reflecting the set image processing conditions together with the display of the set image processing conditions. . In such a case, the relationship between the output image data and the image processing conditions can be easily confirmed.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image file generation device that generates an image file including image processing control information that specifies processing conditions for image data in the image processing device. An image file generation device according to a second aspect of the present invention includes an image data input unit that inputs image data accompanied by generation information at the time of generation, an image data analysis unit that analyzes the generation information, and a result of the analysis. And image processing control information generating means for generating image processing control information for designating image processing conditions for the image data in the image processing device, and storing the generated image processing control information and the image data in association with each other. And an image file generation means for generating an image file to be performed.

  According to the image file generation device according to the second aspect of the present invention, the image processing control information for the image data is generated based on the image data generation information, and the image does not include the image processing conditions at the time of image processing. Desired image processing conditions can be added to the file. Therefore, even an image file that originally does not have image processing control information can be provided with image processing control information. In an image processing apparatus that executes image processing with reference to image processing control information, Image processing can be executed by specifying processing conditions, and the burden on the user can be reduced when generating image processing control information.

  In the image file generation device according to the second aspect of the present invention, the generation information includes model information of an imaging device that has generated the image data, and the image processing control information includes the model information and an image. It may be generated according to the combination with the output device. The image processing control information unique to the model can be applied according to the model information of the imaging apparatus. Further, the generation information includes information indicating an imaging intention at the time of generating the image data, and the image processing control information may be generated based on information indicating the imaging intention. May be an imaging scene set in the imaging apparatus. Image processing control information intended by the photographer can be generated according to the intention of photographing, and the image processing intended by the photographer can be executed in the image processing apparatus. Further, when the imaging intention is an imaging scene, image processing adapted to the imaging scene can be executed in the image processing apparatus.

  In the image file generation device according to the second aspect of the present invention, the image processing control information may include color space information and color correction information. In the image processing apparatus, the image data can be faithfully reproduced by the color space information, and the image data can be output according to the preference by the color correction information. The image data may be Exif data having an image data portion and an Exif data portion for storing shooting information, and the generation information may be shooting information included in the Exif data portion. Since the Exif data includes shooting conditions, model information, and the like, more appropriate image processing control information can be generated by using these information.

  The image file generation device according to the second aspect of the present invention further includes image processing condition setting means for setting an arbitrary image processing condition for the image data, and the image processing control information is generated by the analyzed generation. In addition to information, it may be generated based on the set image processing conditions. In such a case, the image processing control information generated based on the imaging condition or the like can be changed to set the image processing control information more appropriately.

  A third aspect of the present invention provides an image file generation program. An image file generation program according to a third aspect of the present invention includes a function for inputting image data, and an image processing condition setting for setting an image processing condition for the input image data on a display screen of a display device. A function for forming an area; a function for forming an original image display area for displaying the input image data on the display screen; and the setting adjacent to the original image display area on the display screen. When a function for forming a reflected image display area for displaying image data reflecting reflected image processing conditions and an image processing condition for image data displayed in the reflected image display area are selected, A function of generating image processing control information for specifying a processing condition of the image data in the image processing device based on the generated image processing condition, and the generated image processing control Characterized in that to realize the function of generating an image file for storing in association with broadcast and the image data by a computer.

  According to the image file generation program according to the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to generate more appropriate image processing control information while comparing the original image and the reflected image. In addition, a useful user interface can be displayed to generate image processing control information.

  In the image file generation program according to the third aspect of the present invention, the condition set as the image processing condition includes a color space conversion condition and a color correction condition, and the reflected image display area is set as the setting. A first reflected image display area that reflects the color space conversion condition, and a second reflected image display area that reflects the set color correction condition. In such a case, the original image, the color space-converted image, and the color-corrected image can be compared and observed. In the second reflected image display area, an image obtained by performing color correction on an image that has undergone color space conversion may be displayed.

  The image file generation program according to the third aspect of the present invention further causes a computer to realize a function of printing the image data reflecting the set image processing conditions together with the display of the set image processing conditions. Also good. In such a case, the effect of the set image processing control information can be confirmed based on the printing result, and the image processing conditions can be set more appropriately.

  A fourth aspect of the present invention provides an image file generation program. An image file generation program according to a fourth aspect of the present invention includes a function of inputting image data including at least one of generated model information of an imaging apparatus and an imaging condition at the time of generation as a generation condition, and the generation A function for analyzing conditions, a function for generating image processing control information for designating image processing conditions for the image data in the image processing device based on the analyzed generation conditions, and the generated image processing control information, A function of generating an image file for storing the image data in association with each other is realized by a computer.

  According to the image file generation program according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to obtain the same effects as those of the image file generation apparatus according to the second aspect of the present invention. The image file generation program according to the fourth aspect of the present invention can be realized by various aspects in the same manner as the image file generation apparatus according to the second aspect of the present invention.

It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the image file production | generation system containing the image file production | generation apparatus which concerns on a present Example. It is explanatory drawing which shows notionally an example of the internal structure of the image file produced | generated in a present Example according to an Exif file format. It is explanatory drawing which shows the data structure of the Makernote data storage area 113 of the image file GF produced | generated in a present Example. It is explanatory drawing which shows the PrintMatching data storage area 114 defined in the Makernote data storage area 113 of the image file GF produced | generated in a present Example. It is a flowchart which shows the process routine of the image file production | generation process performed with personal computer PC. It is a flowchart which shows the process routine of the image process setting process in an image file generation process. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an image display screen that appears on the display screen of the display device 230 when an original image file is opened. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen that appears on the display screen of the display device 230 when setting color space information in the image file generation processing according to the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen that appears on the display screen of the display device 230 when setting color correction information in the image file generation processing according to the present embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the combination of the numerical value which designates correction mode, each parameter, and correction mode. It is a block diagram which shows the flow of the image processing in the image processing control apparatus which can image-process using the image file according to a present Example.

Hereinafter, an image file generation device according to the present invention will be described based on embodiments with reference to the drawings in the following order.
A. Configuration of an image file generation system including an image file generation device:
B. Image file structure:
C. Image file generation processing:
D. Other examples:

A. Configuration of an image file generation system including an image file generation device:
A configuration of an image file generation system including an image file generation apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an image file generation system including an image file generation apparatus according to the present embodiment.

  The image file generation system 10 executes a later-described image file generation process using the digital still camera 12 as an input device for generating image data to which image processing conditions should be added, and the image data generated by the digital still camera 12. A personal computer PC serving as an image file generating device, and a color printer 30 serving as an output device for confirming image processing results based on image processing conditions set in the personal computer PC. Image data (image file) that can be used to generate an image file in the image file generating apparatus according to the present embodiment is input from the digital still camera 12 to the personal computer PC via the connection cable CV or the memory card MC. Image data. Further, image data for generating an image file that can be used in the image file generating apparatus according to the present embodiment is stored in advance in a storage device of a personal computer PC, for example, a hard disk, via a network (not shown). Image data.

  In addition to the personal computer PC, for example, a stand-alone printer having an image file generation function can be used as the image file generation device. As the output device, in addition to the printer 30, a display device such as a CRT display or an LCD display, a projector, or the like can be used. In the following description, it is assumed that the color printer 30 used in connection with the personal computer PC is used as an output device.

  The personal computer PC is a commonly used type of computer. The CPU 200 executes an image file generation program according to the present invention, the RAM 210 temporarily stores calculation results, image data, and the like in the CPU 200, and image file generation. A hard disk drive (HDD) 220 for storing programs, a display device 230 for displaying calculation results in the CPU 200, image data, and the like, a keyboard for inputting commands and numerical values, and an input device 240 such as a mouse are provided. The personal computer PC includes a card slot 250 for mounting a memory card MC, and an input / output terminal 255 for connecting a connection cable CV from the digital still camera 12 or the like.

  The image file generation process executed in the personal computer PC is visually executed via a graphical user interface (GUI) displayed on the display screen of the display device 230.

  The digital still camera 12 converts light information into an analog electric signal using a CCD or photomultiplier tube, and converts the obtained analog electric signal into a digital signal using an A / D converter, thereby converting digital image data. It is a camera to generate. The generated digital image data is usually stored in a memory card MC as a storage device. As a storage format of image data in the digital still camera 12, the JPEG format is generally used, but other storage formats such as a TIFF format, a GIF format, a BMP format, and a RAW data format can be used.

  The image data generated by the digital still camera 12 usually has a data structure in accordance with the image file format standard (Exif) for the digital still camera. Exif file specifications are defined by the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association (JEITA).

B. Image file structure:
With reference to FIG. 2, a schematic configuration of an image file generated by the image file generation apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described. Note that terms such as file structure, data structure, and storage area in this embodiment mean an image of a file or data in a state where the file or data is stored in the storage device. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing an example of the internal configuration of the image file generated in this embodiment according to the Exif file format.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the image file GF according to the Exif file format includes a JPEG image data storage area 111 that stores image data in JPEG format, and an attached information storage area 112 that stores various types of information relating to the stored JPEG image data. And. The attached information storage area 112 stores shooting time information related to shooting conditions of JPEG images such as shooting date and time, exposure, shutter speed, and the like, and thumbnail image data of JPEG images stored in the JPEG image data storage area 111 in TIFF format. Has been. Further, the attached information storage area 112 includes a Makernote data storage area 113 that is an undefined area open to the DSC manufacturer, and the image processing control information CI added in the image file generation process in the present embodiment is Are stored in the Makernote data storage area 113. That is, the image file GF generated in this embodiment is different from a normal Exif format image file in that the Makernote data storage area 113 includes image processing control information CI. As is well known to those skilled in the art, tags are used to identify each data in an Exif format file, and for data stored in the Makernote data storage area 113, Makernote is used as a tag name. Is assigned and is called a Makernote tag.

  A detailed data structure of the Makernote data storage area 113 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the Makernote data storage area 113 of the image file GF generated in this embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the PrintMatching data storage area 114 defined in the Makernote data storage area 113 of the image file GF generated in this embodiment.

  The Makernote data storage area 113 (image processing control data storage area) of the image file GF according to the present embodiment also has a configuration capable of identifying the data stored by the tag, and the image processing control information CI includes PrintMatching. A tag is assigned. Each tag of the Makernote data storage area 113 is designated by a pointer with an offset value from the top address of the Makernote data storage area 113. In the Makernote data storage area 113, information on the maker name (6 bytes), the reserved area (2 bytes), the number of local tag entries (2 bytes), and each local tag offset (12 bytes) is stored in the top address. ing. After the manufacturer name, a 00x0 end code indicating a character end string is added.

  In the PrintMatching data storage area 114 (image processing control parameter storage unit), a PrintMatching identifier indicating that a PrintMatching parameter is stored, a parameter specified number indicating the number of specified parameters, and a parameter allocated in advance for each parameter A parameter number in which a value for designating (identifying) a number is stored, and parameter setting value information in which a parameter setting value of the designated parameter number is stored are stored. The parameter number is, for example, information stored in a 2-byte area, and the parameter setting value is information stored in a 4-byte area. On the output device side, the image processing control information CI (each parameter value) can be acquired using this PrintMatching tag as an index.

  The image file that can be used in the image file generation apparatus according to the present embodiment is not limited to the Exif image file EGF, and an image file generated by an input device such as a digital video camera or a scanner can also be used.

C. Image file generation processing:
Image file generation processing executed by the image file generation apparatus (personal computer PC) according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a processing routine of image file generation processing executed by the personal computer PC. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a processing routine of image processing setting processing in the image file generation processing. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an image display screen that appears on the display screen of the display device 230 when the original image file is opened. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a setting screen that appears on the display screen of the display device 230 when setting color space information in the image file generation processing according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen that appears on the display screen of the display device 230 when setting color correction information in the image file generation processing according to the present embodiment.

  This processing routine is started when an execution request is made via the input device 240. In this processing routine, it is assumed that the image data to be processed is JPEG image data for the sake of simplicity. When arbitrary JPEG image data is selected via the input device 240, the CPU 200 converts the selected JPEG image data into RGB image data, and displays a basic dialog 40 including three images as shown in FIG. The image is displayed on the display device 230 (step S100). The image data that can be displayed by the display device 230 is RGB image data, whereas JPEG image data is usually image data represented in the YCbCr color space. Therefore, the color space of the image data is changed from the YCbCr color space. It converts to RGB color space.

  The basic dialog 40 includes an original image display area 41 for displaying the original image OG, a color space converted image display area 42 for displaying the color converted image CS after the color space conversion process, and a color corrected image CE after the color correction process. The display mode includes a color correction image display area 43 to be displayed. By adopting such a display mode, it is possible to easily confirm the effects of the color space conversion process and the color correction process on the original image. In the initial state in which the image data is opened, the original image OG is displayed in any of the display areas 41, 42, and 43.

  The CPU 200 determines whether or not a request for image processing setting processing for setting the color space and color correction has been made (step S110). For example, when the “image processing setting” button 44 (see FIG. 6) on the tool bar is clicked via the input device 240, the CPU 200 determines that an image processing setting processing request has occurred. When determining that the request for the image processing setting process has been made (step S110: Yes), the CPU 200 executes the image processing setting process (step S120). If the CPU 200 determines that the request for the image processing setting process has not been made (step S110: No), the CPU 200 stands by.

  The image processing setting process will be described with reference to FIGS. The image processing setting process is performed by displaying the image processing setting dialog 50 shown in FIGS. The image processing setting dialog 50 displays the color space setting item sub-dialog 51 by clicking the tab of “color space” 501 displayed on the dialog 50 with the input device 240 (display state in FIG. 8). By clicking the tab of “color correction” 502 displayed on the dialog 50 with the input device 240, the color correction setting item sub-dialog 52 is displayed (display state in FIG. 9). In the present embodiment, when the image processing setting button 44 is clicked, first, the color space setting item sub-dialog 51 is displayed on the dialog 50.

  On the left side of the dialog 50 shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, an original image display area 503 for displaying the original preview image POG, and a color conversion image display area 504 for displaying the color space converted preview image PCS reflecting the color space conversion processing. And a color-corrected image display area 505 for displaying the color-corrected preview image PCE reflecting the color correction process is formed.

  The CPU 200 determines whether or not a color space setting request has been made (step S1210). As described above, in this embodiment, when the image processing setting button 44 is clicked, first, the color space setting item sub-dialog 51 is displayed on the dialog 50, so the color correction tab 502 is not clicked. As long as the CPU 200 determines that a color space setting request has been made. When determining that the color space setting request has been made (step S1210: Yes), the CPU 200 executes a color space setting process (step S1220). On the other hand, when it is determined that a color space setting request has not been made, that is, a color correction setting request has been made (step S1210: No), the CPU 200 executes a color correction setting process (step S1250) described later.

  The color space setting item sub-dialog 51 is a gamma value setting item 511 for setting a gamma value to be used for gamma correction processing for positive RGB image data, and a minus for setting a negative gamma value to be used for gamma correction for negative RGB image data. Gamma value setting item 512, negative value processing setting item 513 for designating whether to use (enable) negative RGB image data without clipping, and setting a matrix value of a color conversion matrix used for color space conversion A matrix setting item 514. In the color space setting process, each parameter value is directly input to these setting items, or is executed by selecting a numerical value.

  The CPU 200 stands by until a color space setting image preview request is generated (step S1230: No). When the input button 240 is clicked on the preview button 510 displayed in the color space setting item sub-dialog 51, the CPU 200 determines that a preview request has been generated. When the CPU 200 detects the occurrence of the color space setting image preview request (step S1230: Yes), the image reflecting the set color space parameter value is displayed in the color conversion image display area 504 and the color correction image display area 505. It is displayed (step S1240). In this embodiment, the input of the preview request means application (determination) of the set parameter value. In the present embodiment, when the color space parameter value is reflected, the original image data value itself is not changed by the set parameter value, and the original image data value is used as the input value. An output value is obtained by applying a parameter value set for the input value, and a display image reflecting the color space parameter value is displayed.

  When the color correction tab 502 is clicked, the CPU 200 executes the color correction setting process of the color correction tab 502 (step S1250). When the CPU 200 detects a click on the color correction tab 502, the CPU 200 displays a color correction setting item sub-dialog 52 on the dialog 50. The color correction setting item sub-dialog 52 includes an automatic correction setting item 521, a manual correction setting item 522, and a setting value list display item 523. In the color correction setting process, parameter values such as shadow point, highlight point, contrast, brightness, RGB color balance, RGB offset amount, saturation, applied intensity, and memory color are set. The setting values of these parameters are set automatically by selecting a correction mode optimized for each shooting condition (shooting scene) or manually by arbitrarily selecting setting items.

  The correction mode includes, for example, each mode as shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a combination of numerical values for specifying the correction mode, each parameter, and the correction mode. Items such as contrast and brightness for each correction mode indicate the state of image quality obtained as a result of automatic correction in an easy-to-understand manner. To realize the selected correction mode, a single item or multiple items are provided for each item. Parameter value is set. For example, the correction mode 1 is suitable for color correction with respect to standard shooting conditions (generation conditions), the correction mode 2 is suitable for color correction with respect to shooting conditions for portrait shooting, and the correction mode 3 is for example for landscape shooting. Suitable for color correction for shooting conditions, for example, correction mode 4 is suitable for color correction for shooting conditions for sunset scene shooting, for example, correction mode 5 is suitable for color correction for shooting conditions for night scene shooting, for example, and correction mode 6 is for example Suitable for color correction for shooting conditions of shooting flowers. For example, the correction mode 7 is suitable for correction for macro shooting conditions, the correction mode 8 is suitable for correction for shooting conditions for shooting a person who is playing sports, for example, and the correction mode 9 is for example under backlight. The correction mode 10 is suitable for, for example, correction for a photographing condition for photographing autumn leaves, and the correction mode 11 is for, for example, correction for the photographing condition for photographing commemorative photography.

  The automatic correction setting for selecting the correction mode is executed via an automatic correction setting item 521. At the time of automatic correction, the application level of each set parameter value can be set. Manual setting of an arbitrary parameter value is performed via the manual correction setting item 522, and for changing an arbitrary parameter value without changing the value of the parameter selected by the correction mode or using the correction mode. It is executed to set a desired parameter value. The set value of each parameter set in this way is displayed in the set value list display item 523.

  When an arbitrary parameter value is set when the correction mode is selected, the CPU 200 displays an image reflecting the set color correction parameter value in the color correction image display area 505 each time (step S1260). The CPU 200 repeatedly executes step S1250 to step S1260 until the color correction setting is completed (step S1270: No). That is, the CPU 200 redraws the image displayed in the color correction image display area 505 every time the color correction parameter value is changed. Even when the color correction parameter value is reflected, the original image data value itself is not changed by the set parameter value, and the original image data value is used as the input value. A color space image is obtained by applying the set color space parameter value, and then the color correction image is displayed by applying the color correction parameter value using the data value of the color space image as an input value.

  When detecting the end of the color correction setting, that is, the end of the image processing setting process (step S1270: Yes), the CPU 200 closes the image processing setting dialog 50, ends the present processing routine, and performs the processing shown in FIG. Return to the routine. When the execution button 506 displayed in the image processing setting dialog 50 is clicked by the input device 240, the CPU 200 detects the end of the color correction setting.

  Returning to FIG. 5 and continuing the description, the CPU 200 redraws the images in the color space conversion image display area 42 and the color correction image display area 43 by reflecting the parameter values set in the image processing setting process. Then, the basic dialog 40 is displayed again on the display device 20 (step S130). The CPU 200 stores the combination of parameter values set in the image processing setting process in the HDD 220 as one image processing condition (image processing condition file). When storing, an arbitrary file name may be newly assigned, or an existing image processing condition may be overwritten using an existing file name.

  The CPU 200 determines whether or not a generation request for the image file GF has occurred (step S150). The generation request for the image file GF is generated, for example, when a file save command 45 displayed on the toolbar of the basic dialog 40 is clicked via the input device 240. If the CPU 200 determines that the generation request for the image file GF has occurred (step S150: Yes), the CPU 200 generates the image file GF by associating the original image data with the set image processing conditions (step S160). . More specifically, as described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4, the image processing condition is written as image processing control information CI in the Makernote storage area 113 of the original image data (image file). Accordingly, the image data and the image processing control information CI are associated with each other and included in one image file GF.

  If the CPU 200 determines that the generation request for the image file GF has not occurred (step S150: No), the CPU 200 does not generate the image file GF. The CPU 200 determines whether a print request has occurred (step S170). In this embodiment, since the personal computer PC is connected to the printer 30, the result reflecting the image processing conditions set by the image processing setting process can be confirmed by the output image from the printer 30.

  If the CPU 200 determines that a print request has occurred (step S170: Yes), the CPU 200 executes the print process (step S180), and ends this processing routine. The print request is generated, for example, when a print command 47 displayed on the toolbar of the basic dialog 40 is clicked via the input device 240. If the CPU 200 determines that a print request has occurred (step S170: No), it ends this processing routine.

  In the printing process, three images of an original image, a color space converted image, and a color corrected image can be printed on one sheet. In addition, for the color space converted image and the image corrected image, the parameter value set in the vicinity of the printing place of both images can be printed.

  When executing the printing process, the CPU 200 develops image data reflecting the set image processing conditions in, for example, a dot matrix in a work space on the HDD 220 or RAM 210, and as raster data for the printer 30. Send it out.

  Here, an image processing control device capable of executing image processing by interpreting the image processing control information CI from the image file GF generated in the image file generating device according to the present embodiment, for example, a personal computer PC or a printer 30. The image processing and printing processing in FIG. 11 will be briefly described with reference to FIG. 11 focusing on how the image processing control information CI included in the image file GF is used. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the flow of image processing in an image processing apparatus capable of image processing using an image file according to the present embodiment.

  When the image processing device 70 captures the image file GF, the image processing device 70 converts the color space of the image data from the YCbCr color space to the RGB color space. The image processing apparatus 70 refers to the negative value processing parameter in the image processing control information CI (color space parameter), and performs subsequent processing using the minus data included in the RGB data converted from the YCbCr data. Determine whether or not. If the negative value processing parameter indicates that the negative value is valid, the negative data is used as it is as an effective value without clipping, and if the negative value processing parameter indicates that the negative value is invalid, the negative data is For example, clipping is performed in the color gamut of the sRGB color space. The minus data means all data outside the color gamut of a predetermined color space, for example, the sRGB color space. Therefore, when the sRGB color space is defined with a value of 0 to 255, the sRGB color space More than 256 positive data exceeding the color gamut is also included.

  The image processing apparatus 70 refers to the gamma value, the negative gamma value (when the negative value is valid), and the matrix value from the image processing control information CI (color space parameter), and performs gamma correction processing and color space on the RGB data. Perform the conversion process. Color space conversion processing is performed by converting RGB data to XYZ data using a 3 × 3 matrix (M), and then converting XYZ data to RGB data again using an inverse matrix of another matrix. Is done.

  The image processing device 70 refers to a color correction parameter from the image processing control information CI, and executes an image adjustment process on the image data that has been subjected to the color space conversion process. In the image adjustment process, the output value with respect to the input value of the image data is adjusted by interpreting the correction mode or by using a directly designated parameter value.

  The image processing apparatus 70 executes print processing on the image data that has been subjected to image adjustment. In the printing process, a halftone process and a process of converting RGB data into CMYK data are executed. Finally, the image processing apparatus 70 outputs the obtained image data to the printer as raster data.

  As described above, according to the image file generation device according to the present embodiment, the image processing control information CI is set to the image file that does not have the image processing control information CI for designating the image processing condition at the time of image processing. Can be added. Accordingly, an image file GF capable of executing desired image processing can be generated in an image processing apparatus capable of interpreting the image processing control information CI and executing image processing.

  When setting the image processing control information CI (image processing conditions) to be added to the image file GF, the image file generating apparatus according to the present embodiment sets the original image OG, the color converted image CS, and the color corrected image CE, Furthermore, since the original preview image POG, the color-converted preview image PCS, and the color-corrected preview image PCE are displayed at the same time, the values of the color space parameter and the color correction parameter are referred to with reference to the image processing effect accompanying the change of the parameter value. Can be set.

Other examples:
In the above embodiment, each parameter value is determined and the image processing control information CI is set without considering the Exif information included in the processing target image file GF. May be read and analyzed, and the image processing control information CI may be set based on the analyzed Exif information. For example, the value of each parameter included in the Exif information and the value of each parameter set in the image processing control information CI are stored in association with each other in advance, and the read Exif information is analyzed, Appropriate color space parameter values and color correction parameter values may be acquired from the storage device, or may be generated at any time and automatically set. In such a case, the image processing control information CI can be added to the image file GF even in a stand-alone printer without going through the personal computer PC.

  Alternatively, when the shooting mode set on the digital still camera 12 side is recorded as Exif data, the CPU 200 selects a correction mode suitable for the shooting mode obtained by analyzing the recorded shooting mode. You may make it. In such a case, since the image processing control information CI corresponding to the shooting mode can be generated, it is possible to generate an image file that can bring the reproducibility of the image data closer to the photographer's intention.

  In addition, the color space parameter value set based on the Exif information and the image reflecting the color correction parameter value are displayed. Based on the displayed image, the color space parameter value and the color correction parameter are further displayed. The value of may be changed. In such a case, since rough image processing conditions are set by considering Exif information, it is possible to easily obtain image processing conditions that can achieve a desired effect by adjusting only fine settings. .

  Furthermore, not only the image processing conditions in an image processing apparatus such as a printer, but also the printing conditions of the printer 30 (parameter values of the printer driver) may be set. In such a case, since the printer 30 is set based on the output control information CI, the user does not need to set print conditions such as the type, resolution, and print direction of the print medium on the printer driver setting screen. In addition, there is no possibility that an inappropriate print condition is set for the image data by the user, and it is possible to prevent a decrease in print quality due to an inappropriate print condition setting. Therefore, the user can more reliably obtain the print result intended by the image file creator.

  In each of the above embodiments, the image processing control information CI for one output device is added to the image file GF. However, output to a plurality of output devices having different output characteristics in the image file GF. Control information may be stored. In such a case, each output device has a function (component) that identifies and acquires PrintMatching data that designates itself from one image file GF, so that the image of the image data GD is based on the acquired PrintMatching data. Processing and image output control can be executed. Therefore, an appropriate image output state can be controlled in a plurality of output forms.

  The image file generation apparatus according to the present invention has been described above based on the embodiments. However, the embodiments of the present invention described above are for facilitating the understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Absent. The present invention can be changed and improved without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims, and it is needless to say that the present invention includes equivalents thereof.

  In the above embodiment, parameters such as gamma value, color space matrix, and negative value processing are used as color space parameters, and parameters such as shadow point, highlight point, and contrast are used as color correction parameters. What parameters are used is an arbitrary decision.

  Moreover, the value of each parameter illustrated in the table | surface of FIG. 10 is only an illustration to the last, and the invention which concerns on this application is not restrict | limited by this value.

  In the above embodiment, the digital still camera 12 has been described as the imaging device. However, a scanner, a digital video camera, or the like can be used. In addition to a printer, a liquid crystal display, a CRT display, a projector, or the like can be used as an output device.

  In the above embodiment, the Exif format file has been described as a specific example of the image file GF, but the format of the image file that can be used in the image file generation device according to the present invention is not limited to this. That is, any file can be used as long as it can include image data to be output by the output device and image processing control information CI that specifies the image processing conditions of the image data in the image processing device. This is because with such a file, an image file including image data and image processing control information CI can be generated in the image file generation device.

  For the image file GF including the image data and the output device control information CI, association data for associating the image processing control information CI is generated, and the image data and the image processing control information CI are stored in independent files. In addition, a file that can associate image data with image processing control information CI by referring to association data at the time of image processing is also included. In such a case, although the image data and the image processing control information CI are stored in separate files, the image data and the image processing control information CI are inseparably integrated at the time of image processing using the image processing control information CI. This is because they function in the same manner as when they are stored in substantially the same file. That is, an aspect in which the image data and the image processing control information CI are used in association with each other at least at the time of image processing is included in the image file GF in the present embodiment.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Image file generation system 12 ... Digital still camera 20 ... Display apparatus 200 ... CPU 210 ... RAM 220 ... HDD 240 ... Input device 250 ... Slot 255 ... Input / output terminal GF ... Image file (Exif file) 111 ... JPEG image data storage Area 112 ... Attached information storage area 113 ... Makernote storage area 114 ... PrintPerfect tag 30 ... Printer CV ... Connection cable MC ... Memory card PC ... Personal computer.

Claims (17)

An image file generation device that generates an image file including image processing control information that specifies processing conditions for image data in an image processing device,
Original image data display means for displaying input image data;
Image processing condition setting means for setting image processing conditions to be executed on the image data in the image processing apparatus;
Reflected image data display means for displaying image data reflecting the set image processing conditions;
Image processing condition selection means for selecting an image processing condition set for the displayed reflected image data;
Image processing control information generating means for generating the image processing control information based on the selected image processing conditions;
An image file generation device comprising image file generation means for generating an image file for storing the generated image processing control information and the image data in association with each other. The image file generation device according to claim 1,
The image processing condition setting means is an image file generation device including image processing condition display means for displaying set image processing conditions. The image file generation device according to claim 2,
An image file generation apparatus in which the image processing condition set by the image processing condition setting means includes at least one of a color space conversion processing condition and a color correction processing condition. The image file generation device according to claim 1 further includes:
A storage device that stores scene-specific processing conditions in which a plurality of image processing parameters are combined in advance according to the imaging scene,
The image processing condition set by the image processing condition setting means is an image file generation device that is the scene-specific processing condition. In the image file generation device according to claim 3 or 4,
The original image data display means and the reflected image data display means display the image data and the image data reflecting the image processing conditions in parallel on the same screen. The image file generation device according to claim 5 further includes:
An image file generation apparatus comprising: a printing unit that prints the image data reflecting the set image processing conditions together with the display of the set image processing conditions. An image file generation device that generates an image file including image processing control information that specifies processing conditions for image data in an image processing device,
Image data input means for inputting image data accompanied by generation information at the time of generation;
Image data analysis means for analyzing the generated information;
Image processing control information generating means for generating image processing control information for designating image processing conditions for the image data in the image processing device based on the result of the analysis;
An image file generation device comprising image file generation means for generating an image file for storing the generated image processing control information and the image data in association with each other. The image file generation device according to claim 7,
The generation information includes model information of the imaging device that generated the image data,
The image processing control information is an image file generation device that is generated according to a combination of the model information and an image output device. In the image file generation device according to claim 7 or 8,
The generation information includes information indicating an imaging intention at the time of generating the image data,
The image processing control information is an image file generating device that is generated based on information indicating the imaging intention. The image file generation device according to claim 9, wherein
The information indicating the imaging intention is an image file generation device that is an imaging scene set in the imaging device. The image file generation device according to any one of claims 7 to 10,
An image file generation device in which the image processing control information includes color space information and color correction information. The image file generation device according to any one of claims 7 to 10,
The image data is Exif data having an image data portion and an Exif data portion for storing shooting information.
The generation information is an image file generation device that is photographing information included in the Exif data portion. The image file generation device according to claim 7 further includes:
Image processing condition setting means for setting an arbitrary image processing condition for the image data,
The image processing control information is an image file generation device that is generated based on the set image processing conditions in addition to the analyzed generation information. An image file generation program,
A function to input image data;
A function of forming an image processing condition setting area for setting an image processing condition for the input image data on a display screen of a display device;
A function of forming an original image display area for displaying the input image data on the display screen;
On the display screen, adjacent to the original image display area, a function of forming a reflected image display area that displays image data reflecting the set image processing conditions;
Image processing control for designating processing conditions for the image data in the image processing device based on the set image processing conditions when image processing conditions for the image data displayed in the reflected image display area are selected The ability to generate information,
An image file generation program for causing a computer to realize a function of generating an image file that stores the generated image processing control information and the image data in association with each other. The image file generation program according to claim 14,
The conditions set as the image processing conditions include a color space conversion condition and a color correction condition,
The reflected image display area includes a first reflected image display area that reflects the set color space conversion condition, and a second reflected image display area that reflects the set color correction condition. program. The image file generation program according to claim 15 further includes:
An image file generation program for causing a computer to realize a function of printing the image data reflecting the set image processing conditions together with display of the set image processing conditions. An image file generation program,
A function of inputting image data including at least one of the model information of the generated imaging device and the imaging condition at the time of generation as a generation condition;
A function of analyzing the generation condition;
A function of generating image processing control information for designating an image processing condition for the image data in the image processing device based on the analyzed generation condition;
An image file generation program for causing a computer to realize a function of generating an image file that stores the generated image processing control information and the image data in association with each other.

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