WO2002009420A1

WO2002009420A1 - Method and apparatus for billing digital camera operation and services

Info

Publication number: WO2002009420A1
Application number: PCT/US1999/029693
Authority: WO
Inventors: Eran Steinberg
Original assignee: Fotonation, Inc.
Priority date: 1998-12-14
Filing date: 1999-12-14
Publication date: 2002-01-31

Abstract

A method wherein a digital camera (12) is programmed to require a password to authorize its operation, and programs to respond to data instructing limited use. In order to operate the camera (12), a user must first call the owner's authorization facility (14) and send the specific camera identification number and the user's account or credit card number for billing purposes. With the camera (12) in communication with the owner's facility to a network connection (22, 23), the owner then sends data to the camera (12), including the password and specific conditions allowing the requested use. For example, the use may be for a set number of images for a still camera, or a set amount of recording time if the camera is a video camera, or for use during a certain set period of time. The user is then able to operate the camera (12) within the purchase limits and is billed accordingly by the owner.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR BILLING DIGITAL CAMERA OPERATION AND SERVICES

Background of the Invention

Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to digital still and video cameras, and more particularly to a digital camera system for billing use of a digital camera and digital photographic services.

Brief Description of the Prior Art Most modern households include at least one personal computer (PC), generally used for a large number of tasks. The cost of a PC is generally considered a wise investment due to its extensive use. A somewhat different situation exists in the area of digital photography. Although most households have a PC and could benefit from a digital file of photographs, only relatively few households currently consider the expense of a quality digital camera to be a good investment. In addition, the services that are provided for traditional film processing and printing far surpass those offered to digital camera users. A quality digital camera can cost as much as a PC, or more, to purchase. Currently, rental of a digital camera normally requires a deposit, and a significant daily rental charge. For example, a person on an extended trip by automobile typically is not going to want to rent a digital camera and pay for it to sit in the trunk while monotonous scenery passes by, until the more interesting photogenic destination arrives. Rental of other types of electronic devices, such as wireless phone services, are paid for either over time or as part of a service agreement. For example, wireless phone carriers may offer the actual phone to the users at a reduced price, sometimes at a loss, as long as the user will subscribe to their services. In this case the cost is amortized into the monthly phone bills. A comparable method of making digital cameras affordable to consumers is not currently available. In addition to the large purchase price of a digital camera, users also need to have a PC, a high quality color printer, and knowledge of the technology to get their prints. The nature of the current digital camera business limits the benefits of digital cameras to those who can both afford the camera and computer hardware, and are comfortable in its operation. In view of the above, there is clearly a need for a way of making digital photography available, affordable and convenient for the average household.

SUMMARY It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a method of making digital photography more affordable. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a convenient method of charging a camera user for photographic services as part of a digital camera system. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a digital camera rental system wherein the use of a digital camera can be purchased on a per image basis for a still camera, or by recording time for a video camera. It is a still further object of the present invention to provide a digital camera rental system wherein a user can pay for camera use through a remotely accessed credit system. It is another object of the present invention to provide a digital camera rental system wherein the camera use is paid for by directly contacting a financial clearing house, such as a credit card system. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a user a convenient method of supplying digital photographic services. Briefly, a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a digital camera system including a digital camera configured for sending and receiving data through a communications network. The camera has a card slot for reception of a key card required for operation, and requires reception of authorization data from an authorization facility in order for a user to take a requested number of pictures in the case of a still camera, or an amount of recording time for a video camera. The user is then billed for the camera usage based on the data sent to the authorization facility. The camera is preferably provided with more than one way of connecting to the network, including an RF connection (as with a cellular phone), a cable connection, or an indirect connection through use of a programmable card. The camera can also send acquired image data and user identification, including a credit card number, etc. to a photographic service center for processing. The service center then proceeds with the processing and bills the user. The facility or service center can determine whether to authorize the use of the camera, or perform services based on the available line of credit on a users card account. As a further option, the camera can automatically transmit usage information to the authorization facility, and as long as the credit line is adequate, the camera can remain operational. If the account is not paid, the facility can transmit a camera disabling signal. An advantage of the present invention is that it provides a more affordable method of obtaining use of a digital camera. A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a convenient method of billing for use of a rental camera, for example at theme parks and recreational areas where cameras are used extensively. A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a convenient method of billing for use of a camera, and for processing and billing for photographic services. A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides an effective method of maintaining an on-going relationship between a camera manufacturer and a camera owner, thus enabling a strong upgrade path. A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides means of maintaining an on-going revenue stream from a user to a camera provider, and/or a service provider that supports the camera. A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a method and apparatus whereby a user can pay for use of a digital camera instead of purchasing it. A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides protection from theft and unauthorized use of a camera. In the Drawing Fig 1 illustrates the credit card activated camera system of the present invention, including various methods of communicating with an owner/credit center; Fig 2 presents the method of authorizing camera use in flow chart form; Fig 3 is a flow chart showing further detail of a method of communication using a programmable card; Fig 4 illustrates use of a credit card with the camera to obtain authorization; Fig 5 is a detailed block diagram of the digital camera; Fig 6 is a more detailed flow chart of the authorization system; Fig 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment wherein the camera is continuously operational; and Fig 8 illustrates use of a personal operation card to access any system camera.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment Referring now to Fig 1 of the drawing, a preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated, including a system 10, wherein authorization to operate a camera 12 is requested through communication with an authorization center 14 through a network. The system also provides for procurement of photographic services related to the images taken.. For example, a camera 12 can be rented for special occasions such as holidays, travel, etc. The camera rental is therefore billed and paid for in a way similar to that employed in the cellular phone business. A difference between the cellular phone and the camera rental example is that cellular phone users normally own their own phone. The present invention also applies to cameras that are owned by the users. In this case, an embodiment of the present invention requires that the user purchase authorization to take pictures. This is a similar situation to an analog camera owner purchasing film. Whether the camera is rented or owned by the user, the usage can be paid for on a per image basis in the case of a still camera, or for recording time for a video camera. Another example of a business arrangement would be a situation wherein the camera is rented along with rental of a car. The billing in this case can be a fixed rental fee plus a fee for the amount of usage. In this situation, the camera rental operation is similar to the rental of the car. Fig. 1 illustrates various ways that the camera can communicate with a camera authorization center 14 through a network. In one embodiment, the camera 12 includes an RF transceiver, evidenced in Fig 1 by antenna 16 for radiating and collecting radio frequency communication to and from a corresponding network transceiver 18. This type of connection is similar to what is used for digital cellular phone communication. The camera and center can also communicate directly through a digital network 20, or through a conventional analog phone network 22 with the assistance of a modem 24. Fig 1 shows the network transceiver 18 connected to either or both of the networks 20 and 22 through lines 26 and 28. In the case where transmission is to the analog network, the transceiver includes a modem. The present invention also includes other types of connections between the camera 12 and the center 14. The camera can be connected through a camera digital port 30 to cable 32 to the modem 24 connected to the network 22. The connection can also be made directly to the digital network 20 as indicated by cable/line 34. Alternatively, the camera 12 has a built-in modem, with an output 36 allowing direct connection to cable 38 providing connection to the network 22. A further alternate connection is by way of a programmable card 40. The programmable card 40 can be any of a variety of programmable devices such as a PCMCIA card or smart card, etc. that can receive authorization data from the center 14 by way of a digital connection, for example through a computer 42 connected to the center 14 through any form of compatible communication network such as networks 20 or 22 via buses 44 and 46 respectively. After the card 40 has been programmed by the center 14, or by the center through the network and the computer 42, it is connected to the camera through port 48 and the data is downloaded to the camera, allowing camera operation according to the programmed conditions. As an alternate embodiment, the card 40 can be pre-programmed to authorize a set number of images, or a fixed amount of recording time. The card can be configured to function with any one of a particular model of camera. The user can then purchase the card to allow operation of the camera for a fixed number of images or recording time. The feature is analogous to the purchase of film for an analog camera. In operation, the user inserts the card 40 in the slot 48, and when a picture is taken (image acquired), the camera erases a portion of the block of authorization data on the card 40. When the authorization data is all erased, the user must purchase another card 40, or obtain authorization for picture taking by other methods, as explained elsewhere in the present disclosure. The benefit to the consumer in this method, is that a manufacturer will have an incentive to sell the camera at a very low price, perhaps even at a loss, in order to gain the on-going business of selling the digital cards 40. In contrast, camera manufacturers that allow unlimited use of the camera must make their profit in the one time sale of the camera, and as a result, the price must be much higher, limiting the number of consumers who will be able to afford the purchase. In order to initiate the authorization through use of the network described in reference to Fig 1, the user can instruct the camera to send and/or receive data to or from the center through operation of the key pad 50. This flexible communication results in billing the user for the authorization. In order to protect a user from being billed for operation of the camera without the users permission, a user password or key is included as an alternate embodiment. For example, in Fig. 1, slot 52 is for insertion of an electronic key, preferably in the form of a coded magnetic card 54 which must be in place or at least inserted momentarily to enter the user password in order to operate the camera. Alternatively, a user password can be entered through use of the keypad 50. The camera 12 also includes as an alternate embodiment, a credit card slot 56 for insertion of a credit card 58. The camera in the embodiment is configured to read the card and upon instruction from the user, for example via keypad 50, the camera automatically sends the card number along with a camera identification number and a user request for additional authorization to the authorization center 14. A user interface panel 60 is shown for various user interface indicators and switches, etc. The panel 60 can also be used to inform the user as to the state of his account, including the amount of remaining credit or any reason why authorization for the camera is declined. This information is transmitted to the camera through one of the networks, either by a direct connection, or through a card 40, or a radiated connection through use of the transceiver 18 and antenna 16. The operation of the authorization system of the present invention is described further in reference to Fig 2. The user dials/calls the authorization center (block 62). This operation can be done manually, or automatically when the camera is turned on, or at specific time intervals, or on completion of a set amount of usage such as when a number if images are taken, or after a length of recording time or memory used, etc. The camera ID, the user identification, the number of images or recording time desired and a credit card number are given to the center (block 64). The center 14 then sends the necessary data to the camera by any of the connections discussed above, or by any other connection that will be apparent to those skilled in the art (block 66). The center records the credit card number or account number and the authorization requested and bills the user accordingly (block 68). The method of operation described above in reference to Fig. 2 applies to any type of network connection. The radio frequency type of connection is generally preferred as the most convenient, with a user credit card in place in the camera as described above. Alternatively, a wired/cabled connection with the credit card in place on the camera is also fairly convenient, requiring only the additional step of connecting the camera to a phone/network line. Of course, the credit card number can also be entered manually, as mentioned above. The method using a programmable card 40 to communicate with the center 14 is less convenient and more complicated. This method is illustrated in more detail in Fig. 3A. The process begins with programming the card as required 70. This can be done by the authorization center or manufacturer. A number of options are possible as indicated in block 70, including an automatic dialing feature wherein the user need only insert the card in a computer that is connected to a network and enter a key sequence to start the procedure. Card data is then read, resulting in the dialing of the authorization center 72. Upon making a connection, the card transfers the camera identification number, and preferably both user identification and a credit card number 74. The user ID and credit card number could be given verbally in a call from the user, or they could be on file with the center and associated with the particular camera identification. These .options are noted in blocks 72 and 74. The user then enters the authorization desired 76, in response preferably to a prompt placed on the computer screen by the card, or by the center in response to having made connection. The authorization center then verifies the user's credit 78, and if adequate 80, sends a password (preferably encrypted) 82 along with authorization data to the card. If the credit is not approved 84, a notice 86 is sent to the user. With the card 40 fully programmed, the user inserts the card in the camera slot 48 and downloads the data (block 88). The initiation of downloading can be accomplished either by a selected sequence of keys on the panel 50, or by a special connection with a card contact used to trigger the download procedure when the card is inserted. The user can then proceed to operate the camera (block 90), and the camera automatically deducts the number of images taken or recording time or memory used from the authorized amount (block 92). When the authorized limit is reached, the camera automatically disables itself (block 94). The above description applies to embodiments wherein use of the camera is billed through some form of credit system. Another embodiment of the present invention, applicable whether the camera is owned by the user, or as a rental camera, is also illustrated in Fig. 1. In this embodiment, the present invention addresses the need for photographic processing of images/pictures taken with the camera. For example, a camera user, whether renting or owning the camera, may not have a personal computer with a quality color printer, and the required program(s) and expertise to process his image data properly. The following features of the present invention provide a very convenient alternative. The camera 12 is programmed to contact the service center 96 (Fig 1) and send the image data upon request by the user. This can be done by connecting the camera 12 to a network (20, 22) by any of the connections discussed in reference to Fig. 1. In one embodiment the user can phone the service center 96, give his credit card number, and then press a prescribed key pattern on the key pad to send the data through whatever means the camera is connected. This procedure is helpful, but rather involved. The preferred embodiment of this feature uses the credit card slot 56 and RF transmission capability. The user in this case only needs to insert his credit card 54 and push the required key pattern on panel 50. The operation is shown in Fig. 4, wherein block 98 indicates the user activation of the camera service facility feature. The camera then calls the service center (block 100), reads the card number, and sends it along with the image data and any other required user identification to the service center 96 (block 102). The credit is then approved or denied (block 104) and the user notified on the display 60 (block 106). If credit is approved 108, the camera sends the image data to the center (block 110). The images are then processed and the results sent to the user (block 112) and the user is billed for the service (block 114). Fig. 5 is a detailed block diagram of the digital camera 12, including the communications device and digital camera integrated unit as indicated in Fig 9 of U.S. Patent Serial Number 09/105,594, the disclosure of which is included in the present specification by reference. For a detailed disclosure of various alternative network connections, reference is made to the relevant figures of Serial Number 09/105,594. Referring now to Fig. 5, the camera 12 includes a camera digital image acquisition apparatus 116 in communication with a processor 118 through bus 120. The processor 118 includes a clock 122, counter 124, storage for additional data 126, image processing capability 128 and a security engine 130. The connector 132 provides interface with the processor 118 through network connection controller 134 by way of bus lines 136, 138, 140 and 142. Alternatively, or in addition, the camera has a built-in modem 144 interfacing with the controller 134 via bus 146, and to connector 148 via bus 150. The smart card 40 of Fig 1 interfaces through the card slot 48 with the processor 118 by way of card controller 152 via buses 154, 156, 140 and 142. A transceiver 154 is shown for RF communication, interconnected with the network controller 134 and antenna 16 via buses 156 and 158. The keypad 50 is interfaced with the processor 118 by a keypad controller 160 via buses 162, 164, 140 and 142. Numerous user interface items are shown in Fig 5, included generally in the user interface areas 50 and 60 of Fig 1 or other location as desired, including a battery indicator 166 and LCD display 168, a power switch 170, light alarm 172, and sound alarm 174. These are all interfaced with the various relevant component blocks of Fig 5 by a user interface controller 176. The LCD display 168 for purposes of the present disclosure includes facility for any of various items that may be useful to communicate to the user. Some of these include a count of the number of images taken, and/or total number authorized and the number remaining to be taken. The light 172 and sound alarm 174 are used with or without accompanying messages indicated by the LCD display 168. For example, the alarm may indicate low battery power, or a certain number of authorized images remaining, etc. Also indicated in Fig 5 are the necessary memory units, including a ROM 178 and RAM 180 and a power supply 182 with options, including a battery 184, an AC battery charging supply input 186, a phone line power connection 188 and a line 190 from an alternate power bus, not shown. Fig 6 is a more detailed flow chart of the authorization system of the present invention illustrated briefly in reference to Fig. 2. The camera is initially programmed to require a password in order to enter further programming data, and to respond to programming to limit the camera usage. The password or key can be in the form of software information that is either keyed in from the camera interface, such as keypad 50 (Fig. 1), or from a computer keyboard with the data placed on a card 40, and then transferred to the camera 12, or the data can be sent to the camera 12 through a connection to ports 30 or 36, or radiated by a transceiver to antenna 16. This operation is performed by the manufacturer or authorization center in advance of delivery of the camera to a user. The camera is preferably programmed to accept an encrypted password and decrypt it and compare with the programmed password, The camera is programmed to accept typical usage limitations/authorizations including a set number of images, or a set amount of recording time (if a video camera) , and/or a particular date and time of use, such as October 20 from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This programming is indicated by block 192 of Fig 6. In order for a camera user to operate the camera in his possession, a request for authorization must first be made. An initial authorization (block 194) can be done by the manufacturer or authorization center prior to delivery of the camera to the user. The initial authorization can be accomplished with a direct connection from a computer to the camera because the camera is still in the manufacturer's or center's, etc. presence. Such a direct connection could be line 34 of Fig 1 connecting directly to the computer 42, or a programmed card 40 could be used , or programming can be done by other means that will be apparent to those skilled in the art. When the user is in possession of the camera, and is remote from the authorization center 14, additional authorization to use the camera is obtained by first contacting the center 14 (block 196), and then transmitting the camera ID to the center (block 198). Steps 196 and 198 can be accomplished in a number of different ways, including a phone call and verbally giving the center the camera ID in the case when the user knows the ID number, for example. Alternatively, the camera can be connected to a network as discussed in reference to Fig 1 and the user can instruct the camera by use of the keypad 50 to contact the center (block 196) and send the camera ID (block 198). The user in this case does not have to know the camera ID, since the camera can automatically send the programmed ID number. The user must also send the center his credit card number, or account number, and a statement of the desired authorization (block 200). This, again, can be done verbally, if a voice phone connection is made, or by using a computer or phone keypad, or by using the camera keypad 50. At this point, the center must remotely program the camera to allow the requested operation. This requires connecting the camera to a communications network as detailed in reference to Fig 1. If the initial request is sent by connecting the camera to the network, the connection is already made. If a verbal phone call was made, the camera then needs to be connected to the network. With the camera in communication with the center, the center then sends the secret password to the camera and programs the camera to allow the use requested (block 202). Of course, the center then bills the user as required (block 204). Referring now to Fig. 7, an option of the present invention is illustrated wherein a user can choose to have the camera continuously operational within the limits of the user's line of credit. The camera is programmed to operate in this special mode upon a user's request, for example through selection from the keypad 50 (block 206). The user communicates a credit card number. This can be done in a number of ways, as referred to elsewhere in this disclosure. A preferred method is for the camera to read the credit card number from the card 58 inserted, or the user can enter it on the keypad 50, or the camera can have the number pre-programmed in memory (block 208). The camera then sends the credit card number and request for continuous operation to the authorization center (block 210). In response, the center 14 checks the user's line of credit (block 212), and if it is okay (214), the authorization is sent to the camera for a set amount of operation (block 216) . The user then takes pictures (block 218) and at or near the end of the authorized operation, the camera automatically transmits another request (210). The credit line is again checked (block 212). If the credit is still okay (214), a new authorization is sent (block 216). If credit is not okay (220), a notice is sent to the camera display that further credit can not be given (block 222). Due to the need for an "on demand" connection with the center 14, the communication to renew authorization in this mode of operation is preferably accomplished by RF connection. Fig. 8 illustrates a further embodiment of the present invention wherein a potential camera user can carry a personal operation card 54 (Fig. 1) for the purpose of allowing access to any of a number of cameras (12). An example of an application would be a digital camera permanently mounted at a scenic site. Anyone with a personal operation card could insert the card and take the desired pictures. With the camera also automatically connected to a photo service facility 96, the images would then be processed and pictures sent to the user. In Fig. 8, the process begins with a user activating/turning on the camera (block 224). The camera then checks the personal operation card slot (block 226). If no card is present (228) the camera proceeds according to the normal/regular programming as described in reference to the other various figures of the drawing in the specification (block 230). If the camera detects a personal operation card 232, the camera automatically requires a fresh authorization 234. Optionally, a choice can be available to accomplish this either manually (236) or automatically (238). If the user selects automatic (238), the camera reads the card for a user ID and credit card number, and sends this data along with the camera ID and a request for authorization to the center 14 (block 240). The center 14 checks the credit line (242), and if it is not approved 244, sends a notice to the camera display (block 246). If the credit line is okay, the camera sends the requested authorization to the camera (block 248). The user can then take pictures 250. At set intervals of usage, or when the authorization amount has expired 252, the camera again checks the credit line 242 and proceeds as originally described. The mode is similar to the automatic mode of Fig. 7. The user can also select to request authorization manually. Reasons for this would be, for example, where the camera is out of range and can not establish an RF connection, or where the user wants to limit the charges by requesting a limited authorization. In such a case, the user contacts the center 14 in any of the ways discussed elsewhere in the disclosure and sends the user ID, credit card number, camera ID and requested authorization (block 254). The center 14 then proceeds to check the credit 256, and if denied 258, notifies the user (block 260). If credit is okay 262, the requested authorization is sent 264. Pictures are taken 266, and when the authorization has expired 268, a notice is sent 270. Alternatively, the user could request continuous operation, and block 254 would proceed as in Fig. 7 from block 210. Although the present invention has been described above in terms of a specific embodiment, it is anticipated that alterations and modifications thereof will no doubt become apparent to those skilled in the art. It is therefore intended that the following claims be interpreted as covering all such alterations and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. It is claimed that:

Claims

Claims 1. A method of digital camera operation comprising: programming a digital camera to respond to a password to receive authorization data from an authorization center to allow a user operation of said camera, said camera equipped to send and receive data through a communications network.

2. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein said authorization data is transmitted by said center through said communications network to said camera.

3. A method as recited in claim 2 wherein said data is sent through said network and received by a programmable card, and said data is then downloaded from said card to said camera.

4. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein said communications network includes a wireless connection to said camera.

5. A method as recited in claim 3 wherein said card is a PCMCIA card.

6. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein said authorization data is for allowing operation including taking a fixed number of images.

7. A method as recited in claim 2 wherein said authorization data is for allowing operation requiring a fixed amount of memory storage space.

8. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein said camera is a video camera and said authorization data is for allowing operation for a length of recording time.

9. A method as recited in claim 2 further comprising billing said user by said center for said authorization.

10. A method as recited in claim 9 wherein said billing is through a credit card system for approving credit of said user.

11. A method as recited in claim 10 wherein said camera transmits usage data automatically to said center and said center authorizes said camera automatically if said user's credit is approved by said center.

12. A method of digital camera operation comprising: (a) programming a digital camera to transmit image data and a camera user's identification through a communications network to a photographic service facility upon a user's direction; and (b) transmitting image data to said service facility upon said user's direction.

13. A method as recited in claim 12 wherein said service facility prints said images for said user.

14. A method as recited in claim 2 further comprising transmitting by said camera image data through said network to a remote computer.

15. A method as recited in claim 14 wherein said remote computer is at a photographic service facility and said service facility is for processing said image data for said user.

16. A digital camera comprising (a) image capture means for converting a light image to digital image data; (b) communications network connection means for sending and receiving digital data through a communications network; and, (c) means for directing said camera to transmit said digital image data and a user identification to a service facility for processing of said digital image data.

17. A digital camera comprising: (a) image capture means for converting a light image to digital image data; (b) communications network connection means for sending and receiving digital data through a communications network; (c) camera authorization means requiring reception of authorization data providing authorization to permit operation of said camera; and (d) camera disabling means for automatically disabling said camera upon an expiration of said authorization.

18. A digital camera as recited in claim 17 wherein said camera authorization means further includes password requirement means for requiring reception of a password to allow said camera to respond to said authorization data.

19. A digital camera as recited in claim 17 further comprising electronic key reception means for requiring use of an electronic key to permit operation of said camera.

20. A camera as recited in claim 17 further comprising: directing means for transmitting to an authorization center a user identification including said user's credit card number and transmitting a request for said authorization; whereby said authorization center can transmit said authorization data to said camera and bill said user for said authorization.

21. A camera as recited in claim 16 wherein said communication means includes means for reading and writing from and to a programmable card, whereby said card can transfer data between said camera and said network by way of an external computer in cornmunication with said network.

22. A camera as recited in claim 17 wherein said communication means includes means for reading and writing from and to a programmable card, whereby said card can transfer data between said camera and said network by way of an external computer in communication with said network.

23. A camera as recited in claim 17 wherein said communication means includes a radio frequency transceiver.

24. A camera as recited in claim 16 wherein said communication means includes a radio frequency transceiver.

25. A camera as recited in claim 17 wherein said communication means includes means for connecting directly to a digital network with a cable.

26. A camera as recited in claim 16 wherein said communication means includes means for connecting directly to a digital network with a cable.

27. A camera as recited in claim 17 wherein said communication means includes a modem.

28. A camera as recited in claim 16 wherein said communication means includes a modem

29. A method of digital camera operation comprising: (a) requesting authorization from an authorization center to operate a digital camera, said camera programmed to require said authorization to allow a user to operate said camera; and (b) receiving said authorization.

30 A method as recited in claim 29 further comprising billing said user by said center for said authorization

31. A method of digital camera operation comprising: (a) inserting a card into a camera to allow an authorized amount of camera operation, said camera programmed to require said card for operation; and (b) erasing authorization data on said card as said camera is operated until said authorized amount of operation is completed, at which point said card will no longer authorize said camera operation.

32. A digital camera comprising: (a) image capture means for converting a light image to digital image data; and (b) authorization requirement means for requiring reception of authorization to permit operation of said camera.

33. A digital camera as recited in claim 32 wherein said authorization means includes card reception means for receiving a card programmed with authorization data to communicate said authorization to said camera.