JP2003244622A - Image forming method, image processing apparatus, print generating apparatus, and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a novel image forming method, an image processing apparatus adopting the same, and a print generating apparatus by discriminating the adequacy of a photographing condition with high accuracy and optimizing an image processing condition on the basis of the result of discrimination so as to reduce dispersion in the quality of digital prints due to a difference between models of digital cameras. <P>SOLUTION: This invention provides the image forming method for applying prescribed image processing to image data of a photographed image to produce output image data, is characterized in that the image forming method analyzes the image data, particularizes the photographing condition, discriminates the adequacy from the particularized photographing condition and the analysis value of the image data, and optimizes the prescribed image processing condition depending on the adequacy of the discriminated photographing condition. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image forming method for producing desired high-quality output image data by subjecting digital image data acquired by a digital camera to predetermined image processing, and an image processing apparatus using the same. , A print creation device and a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Digital image data (hereinafter, referred to as image data) obtained by photographing with a digital still camera (hereinafter, referred to as digital camera) is recorded in a memory card, and the recorded digital image is recorded. It is possible to display on a CRT monitor or create a print based on the data, and the image quality of outputting these digital image data to a CRT monitor display or an inkjet print is created from a negative film or the like. Similar to silver salt photographic prints (hereinafter also simply referred to as photographic prints), high quality is required.

When a silver salt photographic print is made from image data of a digital camera using a device for making a silver salt photographic print by a digital exposure method (hereinafter referred to as a digital printer), a CRT monitor display, an ink jet print, and the same method are used. A difference in quality from a photographic print made from a negative film on which an object is photographed is a problem. Although the digital camera has the advantage that the photographer can immediately confirm the shooting condition and quality by displaying the image data on the LCD monitor attached to the camera,
The quality of photographic prints produced by the print order service varies more than expected due to differences in digital camera models and digital printer performance, and it is difficult to say that a satisfactory service is offered. .

Compared to general-purpose negative film, the dynamic range of a digital camera is very narrow, and whether or not accurate shooting can be performed depends largely on how correctly the exposure control of the camera is performed with respect to changes in various shooting conditions. It depends. It is similar to reversal film in that it largely depends on the exposure control of the camera, but in the case of a digital camera, by displaying the image data on the LCD monitor equipped with the camera, it is possible to check whether it is a failed photograph or not. Can be deleted with.

However, in the case of capturing a moving scene or in the case of capturing a single photo opportunity, the merit cannot be fully utilized, and there are many cases in which a negative film is inferior. However, the quality of the finished photo prints produced by a digital printer is deteriorated.

The present inventors have taken various photographs from a professional digital camera having the appearance of a single-lens reflex camera, to a highly portable amateur digital camera (hereinafter referred to as an amateur digital camera). Comparative photography was performed under different conditions, and factor analysis for the quality of the photographed image was calculated using multivariate analysis. As a result, it has been found that in a specific shooting scene (main subject or composition of the subject), there is a large variation between camera types due to the setting of the shooting conditions, and as a result, it tends to be a cause of variations in contrast and saturation.

Generally, a digital camera tends to exhibit high contrast and high saturation underexposure and low contrast and low saturation overexposure. In addition, in digital cameras for amateurs, there is a large variation in contrast and saturation, and there is a tendency that such problems often appear in strobe close-up photography and backlight scenes.

[0008] With respect to the above problems, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-168
75, the camera type is specified by the camera model information recorded in the tag information, and the gradation conversion table created in advance is applied to each camera to improve the stability of the finished print quality, and further, in the cloudy weather. To improve work efficiency by creating a tone setting for backlight, a tone setting for backlight, and a tone setting for a close-up flash scene, and preparing the digital printer in a state that can be selected by an operator's input operation. A method of achieving is disclosed. However, this method does not judge whether or not the exposure control at the time of shooting is correctly performed and adjust the image processing condition based on the judgment result.

Further, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-160996 uses information relating to photographing condition setting such as photographing time, luminance values of a plurality of areas, photographing magnification, subject distance, focus position, aperture, shutter speed, use of strobe, and the like. Then, a method of identifying images photographed under the same or similar photographing conditions and printing them under the same or similar printing conditions is disclosed. This is the same technology as the tag information recorded by a digital camera, but it is a system that uses a negative film called Advanced Photo System (hereinafter referred to as APS). It is possible to improve the finish quality of photographic prints by reading the dye image information and the magnetic recording information recorded on the APS film, and using the magnetic recording information such as the setting of photographing conditions and the information about the subject. These relate to the control of printing exposure conditions in an apparatus that creates a silver salt photographic print by projection exposure from an APS film, and is different from the gradation control using the gradation conversion table of a digital printer.

In Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-072648, the main subject density is extracted using the position information of the main subject.
A method of calculating the exposure correction amount is disclosed.

Further, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-238177 discloses that
From the camera information such as shooting condition settings and shooting position, obtain the related information related to the shooting scene if necessary, or combine it with the image data to estimate the shooting scene, and then according to the estimated shooting scene. There is disclosed a method for performing image processing according to the above. Furthermore, by using the tag information recorded in the image data by the digital camera, the model of the digital camera is specified, and by compensating for the model difference, a gradation conversion process is performed so that a high quality photographic print can be obtained. It has been known. For example, if the weather information, the event information, etc. are acquired from the shooting date and time, GPS information, etc., the input operation based on the subjectivity of the operator becomes unnecessary and the work efficiency is improved. However, this method does not judge whether the exposure control at the time of shooting is correctly performed and adjust the image processing condition based on the judgment result.

[0012]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to determine the correctness of shooting conditions with high accuracy and optimize the image processing conditions based on the result of the determination, so that digital printing of different types of digital cameras can be performed. It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel image forming method that reduces variation in quality, and an image processing apparatus and a print creating apparatus using the same.

[0013]

The above objects of the present invention have been achieved by the following constitutions.

1. In an image forming method of subjecting image data of a photographed image to predetermined image processing to create image data for output, the image data is analyzed, photographing conditions are specified, and the specified photographing conditions and image data analysis are performed. An image forming method, comprising: judging the legitimacy of the photographing condition from the value, and optimizing the predetermined image processing condition according to the legitimacy of the judged photographing condition.

2. In an image forming method of performing predetermined image processing on image data of a captured image to create image data for output, a shooting condition and a type of a main subject or a subject configuration are specified, and the specified shooting condition, Image formation characterized in that the validity of the shooting condition is judged from the type of the main subject or the structure of the subject, and the condition of the predetermined image processing is optimized in accordance with the validity of the judged shooting condition. Method.

3. In an image forming method of subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to create image data for output, the image data is analyzed, the camera type is specified, and the specified camera type and image data analysis are performed. An image forming method, comprising: judging the legitimacy of the photographing condition from the value, and optimizing the predetermined image processing condition according to the legitimacy of the judged photographing condition.

4. In an image forming method of subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to create image data for output, the image data is analyzed, and a capturing condition and a camera type are specified, and the specified capturing condition is specified. Image formation characterized by determining the validity of the shooting condition from the camera type and the image data analysis value and optimizing the condition of the predetermined image processing according to the validity of the determined shooting condition Method.

5. In an image forming method for performing predetermined image processing on image data of a captured image to create image data for output, the capturing conditions, the camera type, and the type or configuration of the main subject are identified, and the identified image is captured. conditions,
The validity of the shooting condition is determined from the camera type and the type or configuration of the main subject, and the predetermined image processing condition is optimized according to the validity of the determined shooting condition. Image forming method.

6. In an image forming method in which image data of a captured image is subjected to predetermined image processing to create image data for output, the image data is analyzed and the imaging conditions are
The camera type and the main subject type or the subject configuration are specified, and the validity of the shooting condition is determined from the identified shooting condition, camera type, main subject type or subject configuration, and image data analysis value. An image forming method, characterized in that the predetermined image processing condition is optimized in accordance with the validity of the determined photographing condition.

7. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the photographing condition.
The image forming method according to any one of items 4 to 6.

8. 7. The image forming method according to any one of items 2, 5, and 6, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to specify the type or the subject configuration of the main subject.

9. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the camera type.
The image forming method according to any one of items.

10. 7. The image forming method according to any one of items 2, 5, and 6, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to specify the shooting condition and the type or configuration of the main subject.

11. 7. The image forming method according to any one of items 4 to 6, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to specify the shooting condition and the camera type.

12. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the shooting condition, the camera type, and the main subject type or subject configuration.
The image forming method according to item.

13. 1 to 12, wherein the predetermined image processing is gradation correction processing and color correction processing
The image forming method according to any one of items.

14. 14. The image forming method according to any one of items 1 to 13 above, wherein the determination of the validity is performed by referring to an empirical value recorded in a storage medium.

15. In an image processing apparatus for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to obtain output image data, a means for analyzing the image data, a means for identifying a shooting condition, the identified shooting condition and image data An image processing apparatus comprising: a unit that determines the validity of a shooting condition from an analysis value; and a unit that optimizes the predetermined image processing condition according to the validity of the determined shooting condition.

16. In an image processing apparatus for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, a unit for identifying a capturing condition and a type or configuration of a main subject, and the identified capturing condition and main And a means for determining the validity of the photographing condition based on the type of the subject or the configuration of the subject, and a means for optimizing the predetermined image processing condition according to the validity of the determined photographing condition. Image processing device.

17. In an image processing apparatus for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, a means for analyzing the image data, a means for identifying a camera type, the identified camera type and image data An image processing apparatus comprising: a unit that determines the validity of a shooting condition from an analysis value; and a unit that optimizes the predetermined image processing condition according to the validity of the determined shooting condition.

18. In an image processing apparatus for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, a means for analyzing the image data, a means for identifying a shooting condition and a camera type, and the identified shooting And a means for judging the validity of the shooting condition from the condition, the camera type and the image data analysis value, and a means for optimizing the predetermined image processing condition according to the validity of the judged shooting condition. A characteristic image processing device.

19. In the image processing apparatus, which performs predetermined image processing on the image data of the captured image to obtain image data for output, a unit that identifies the capturing condition, the camera type, and the type of the main subject or the subject configuration, and the identified unit. Means for determining the validity of the shooting condition from the shooting condition, the camera type, and the type or configuration of the main subject, and the predetermined image processing condition is optimized according to the validity of the determined shooting condition. An image processing apparatus comprising:

20. In an image processing apparatus that applies predetermined image processing to image data of a captured image and uses it as output image data, a means for analyzing the image data and a capturing condition, a camera type, a main subject type, or a subject configuration are specified. Means, a means for judging the validity of the shooting condition from the specified shooting condition, the camera type, the type or structure of the main subject, and the image data analysis value, and depending on the validity of the judged shooting condition. And a means for optimizing the condition of the predetermined image processing.

21. 15. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the shooting condition.
The image processing device according to any one of items 16 and 18 to 20.

22. 21. The image processing apparatus according to any one of items 16, 19, and 20, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to identify the type or the subject configuration of the main subject.

23. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the camera type.
20. The image processing device according to any one of 20 to 20.

24. 21. The image processing apparatus according to any one of items 16, 19, and 20, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to specify the shooting condition and the type or configuration of a main subject.

25. The image processing device according to any one of items 18 to 20, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to specify the shooting condition and the camera type.

26. 21. The image processing apparatus according to item 19 or 20, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to specify the shooting condition, the camera type, and the type of the main subject or the subject configuration.

27. The predetermined image processing is gradation correction processing and color correction processing.
The image processing apparatus according to any one of 6 items.

28. In a print creation apparatus for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, a means for analyzing the image data, a means for identifying a shooting condition, the identified shooting condition and image data A print creating apparatus comprising: a unit for judging the validity of the photographing condition from the analysis value; and a unit for optimizing the condition of the predetermined image processing according to the validity of the judged photographing condition. .

29. In a print creation apparatus that applies predetermined image processing to image data of a captured image and uses it as output image data, a means for specifying a shooting condition and a type or structure of a main subject, and the specified shooting condition and main And a means for determining the validity of the photographing condition based on the type of the subject or the configuration of the subject, and a means for optimizing the predetermined image processing condition according to the validity of the determined photographing condition. Print making device.

30. In a print creation apparatus that applies predetermined image processing to image data of a captured image to obtain image data for output, a means for analyzing the image data, a means for identifying the camera type, and the identified camera type and image data A print creating apparatus comprising: a unit that determines the validity of a shooting condition from an analysis value; and a unit that optimizes the predetermined image processing condition according to the validity of the determined shooting condition.

31. In a print creation apparatus that applies predetermined image processing to image data of a captured image and outputs the image data as output, a means for analyzing the image data, a means for identifying a shooting condition and a camera type, and the identified shooting And a means for judging the validity of the shooting condition from the condition, the camera type and the image data analysis value, and a means for optimizing the predetermined image processing condition according to the validity of the judged shooting condition. Characteristic print making device.

32. In a print creation apparatus that applies predetermined image processing to image data of a captured image and uses it as output image data, a unit that identifies a shooting condition, a camera type, and a main subject type or a subject configuration, and the identified unit. Means for determining the validity of the shooting condition based on the shooting condition, the camera type, and the type of the main subject or the subject configuration, and optimizing the predetermined image processing condition according to the validity of the determined shooting condition. And a print creating apparatus.

33. In a print creation apparatus that applies predetermined image processing to image data of a captured image and outputs the image data as output, a means for analyzing the image data, a capturing condition,
Means for identifying the camera type and the type or subject configuration of the main subject, and the identified shooting conditions, camera type,
Means for judging the validity of the shooting condition from the type or structure of the main subject and the image data analysis value, and means for optimizing the condition of the predetermined image processing according to the validity of the judged shooting condition. A print creation apparatus characterized by having.

34. 28. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the photographing condition.
29. The print creating apparatus according to any one of 29, 31 to 33.

35. 34. The print creating apparatus according to any one of items 29, 32, and 33, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to specify the type or the subject configuration of the main subject.

36. 31. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the camera type.
34. The print creation device according to any one of items 33 to 33.

37. 34. The print creating apparatus according to any one of 29, 32, and 33, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to specify the shooting condition and the type or configuration of a main subject.

38. The print creating apparatus according to any one of items 31 to 33, wherein information attached to image data is used to specify the shooting condition and the camera type.

39. 34. The print creation device according to the above item 32 or 33, wherein information attached to image data is used to specify the shooting condition, camera type, and main subject type or subject configuration.

40. 28 to 3 characterized in that the predetermined image processing is gradation correction processing and color correction processing
Item 10. The print creation device according to any one of items 9.

41. A storage medium, which stores a program for executing the image forming method according to any one of items 1 to 14 by a computer.

The inventors of the present invention have made earnest studies in view of the above problems, and as a result, in the photographing information by the digital camera, the tag information, the photographing condition setting recorded in the magnetic information, the type of the main subject, the subject configuration, and By determining the validity of shooting with high accuracy based on the information about the camera type and the analysis value of the image data (feature extraction from the image data), the variation in digital printing conditions due to the difference in the model of the digital camera compared to the past We have found that it can be significantly reduced. In particular, by referring to the type of the main subject, the relationship between the subject configuration and the shooting conditions, and the empirical value indicating the tendency of variation for each camera type, it is possible to optimize the contrast and saturation from the image data that could not be determined in the past. The inventors have found that the efficiency can be achieved and have reached the present invention.

The details of the present invention will be described below. The “image data of a captured image” in the present invention is image data acquired by a digital camera.

The "predetermined image processing" referred to in the present invention means gradation correction for compensating for differences between digital camera models,
Color correction, sharpness correction, and noise correction processing.

Further, according to the present invention, as the camera type is specified, the lens of the camera, the focus performance, and the like can be targeted for image processing.

The "output image data" referred to in the present invention is image data used for creating a photographic print, and is in a state of being written in the apparatus or an external storage such as a CD-R. .

The term "specification of photographing conditions" as used in the present invention means, for example, exposure time, shutter speed, aperture value (F number), ISO, which is attached to the image data or stored in a file different from the image data. It is to clarify the camera settings at the time of shooting by using information such as sensitivity, subject distance range, light source, presence / absence of stroboscopic light emission, white balance, zoom magnification, and shooting saturation.

The term "analyze image data" as used in the present invention means to extract information on photographing exposure conditions, types of main subjects, and configurations of subjects from image data under predetermined conditions. As the photographing exposure condition, for example, a histogram analysis value of image data is obtained, and a rough photographing exposure condition (for example, underexposure or overexposure) can be obtained from the distribution bias. In addition, the type of the main subject and the configuration of the subject include, for example, whether or not a region in which predetermined color information (skin color, etc.) is distributed exists in the image data,
It can be estimated by using a similarity determination method such as pattern matching.

Further, the "analysis value of image data" in the present invention is a numerical value, code or the like representing the result obtained by the above "analysis of image data".

In the present invention, the "type of main subject,
"Specifying the subject configuration" means, for example, that the data is attached to the image data or stored in a file separate from the image data.
This is to clarify the type and subject configuration of the main subject using information such as the subject area, subject configuration, shooting scene type, amount of reflected light from the strobe light source, and brightness value.

Further, in the present invention, "specify camera type"
Is the type of camera, using information such as symbols and codes that represent the camera model and shooting data (settings that can be used only by a specific camera) attached to the image data or stored in a file separate from the image data. (Model), or grade.

“From the specified photographing condition and the image data analysis value” defined in claims 1, 15 and 28 means, for example, the exposure time attached to the image data or stored in a file different from the image data. Camera settings at the time of shooting revealed using information such as, shutter speed, aperture value (F number), ISO sensitivity, subject distance range, light source, flash on / off, white balance, zoom ratio, and shooting saturation And at least one of the photographing exposure conditions, the type of the main subject, and the information about the configuration of the subject extracted from the image data by analyzing the image data are selected and combined. For example, the distance to the subject and photographing of two people, or the shutter speed, the light source, and the mountain scenery are photographed.

The "from the specified photographing condition and the type of the main subject or the subject configuration" defined in claims 2, 16 and 29 is attached to the image data or stored in a file different from the image data. , For example, exposure time, shutter speed, aperture value (F number), ISO sensitivity,
The settings of the camera at the time of shooting, which were revealed using information such as the subject distance range, light source, whether or not to use a flash, white balance, zoom magnification, and shooting saturation, are also attached to the image data, or different from the image data. Information about the type of the main subject and the subject configuration that are clarified by using information such as the subject area, the subject configuration, the shooting scene type, the amount of reflected light from the strobe light source, and the brightness value stored in the file, Choose at least one each,
Refers to combining. For example, subject distance and person shooting, or shutter speed, light source and landscape shooting.

“From the specified camera type and the image data analysis value” defined in claims 3, 17, and 30 means, for example, that of the camera attached to the image data or stored in a file different from the image data. It is extracted from the image data by analyzing the camera type (model) or grade and the image data that was clarified using information such as symbols and codes that represent the model, and shooting data (settings that can be used only by a specific camera). Further, it means that at least one of the photographing exposure condition, the type of the main subject, and the information about the configuration of the subject is selected and combined. For example, digital Levio made by Konica and two people, or QM-200 made by Konica and mountain landscape photography.

[From the specified photographing condition, camera type and image data analysis value] defined in claims 4, 18, and 31.
Means, for example, exposure time, shutter speed, aperture value (F number), ISO sensitivity, subject distance range, light source, flash on / off, white attached to the image data or stored in a file separate from the image data. A symbol that indicates the camera model, which is attached to the image data or stored in a file separate from the image data, and the settings of the camera at the time of shooting that were revealed using information such as balance, zoom ratio, and image saturation. The camera type (model) or grade that was clarified using information such as the code, code, and shooting data (settings that can be used only by a specific camera), and shooting exposure conditions extracted from the image data by analyzing the image data. , At least one of each of the types of main subjects and the configuration of the subject,
Refers to combining. For example, subject distance and digital rebio made by Konica and two people are photographed, or shutter speed and QM-200 made by Konica and mountain landscape photography are taken.

"From the specified photographing condition, camera type, and main subject type or subject configuration" defined in claims 5, 19 and 32 is attached to the image data or is a file separate from the image data. Stored, for example,
Camera at the time of shooting revealed using information such as exposure time, shutter speed, aperture value (F number), ISO sensitivity, subject distance range, light source, flash on / off, white balance, zoom ratio, and shooting saturation Settings, and information such as symbols and codes that represent the camera model and shooting data (settings that can be used only by a specific camera) that are attached to the image data or stored in a file separate from the image data. The type (model) or grade of the selected camera and the same image data attached to the image data or stored in a file separate from the image data, such as the subject area, subject configuration, shooting scene type, and the amount of reflected light from the flash light source. Information about the type of main subject and subject configuration, which was clarified using information such as Refers to select at least one combined. For example, subject distance and digital rebio manufactured by Konica and person shooting, or shutter speed and QM-200 manufactured by Konica and landscape shooting.

According to claims 6, 20, and 33, "from the specified photographing condition, camera type, main subject type or subject configuration, and image data analysis value" is attached to image data or image data. Information such as exposure time, shutter speed, aperture value (F number), ISO sensitivity, subject distance range, light source, flash on / off, white balance, zoom ratio, shooting saturation, etc. stored in a separate file from The settings of the camera at the time of shooting, which were revealed using, and the symbols and codes that represent the model of the camera, which are also attached to the image data and stored in a file separate from the image data, and the shooting data (only for certain cameras. Attached to the image data as well as the type (model) or grade of the camera that was revealed using information such as (usable settings) Or, regarding the type of the main subject and the subject configuration that are clarified by using information such as the subject area, the subject configuration, the shooting scene type, the amount of reflected light from the flash light source, and the brightness value stored in a file separate from the image data. It means that at least one of the information and the photographing exposure condition, the type of the main subject, and the configuration of the subject extracted from the image data by analyzing the image data is selected and combined. For example, subject distance, Konica Digital Revio, person shooting and two person shooting, or shutter speed and Konica QM-2
00, landscape photography, mountain landscape photography, etc.

In the present invention, "determining (determining) the validity of the shooting condition" means "from the specified shooting condition and the image data analysis value", "the specified shooting condition and the type of main subject". Or from the subject configuration "," from the specified camera type and image data analysis value "," from the specified shooting condition, camera type and image data analysis value "," specified shooting condition, camera type, and main From the type of subject or subject configuration, "or" specified shooting conditions,
From the camera type, the type of main subject or the subject configuration, and the image data analysis value ", determine from the empirical value whether shooting was performed correctly or whether correction is necessary, and derive the degree of necessity for image processing. Is. For example, if the subject distance and two persons are photographed, or if the subject distance and person are photographed, the contrast is set to soft contrast for portrait or hard contrast for landscape and saturation depending on the subject distance. It is determined whether the low saturation for portrait or the high saturation for landscape is used. In the case of digital rebio manufactured by Konica and shooting of two persons, it is determined how much the contrast correction for the person should be performed according to the contrast setting of the digital rebio manufactured by Konica. For shutter speed, Konica QM-200 and mountain landscape photography, Konica Q
The M-200 refers to an appropriate shutter speed at the time of photographing a landscape, and determines how much the contrast and saturation for a landscape with motion should be corrected according to the shutter speed. Depending on the subject distance and Konica Digital Revio and person shooting, depending on the subject distance, the contrast is set to soft contrast for people, hard contrast for landscape, and saturation as low saturation for people. To determine whether to apply high saturation for landscape, depending on the contrast setting of the Konica Digital Revio.

If the subject distance is too short or too far, or if the shutter speed is too fast,
Alternatively, an extreme case such as too late, underexposure, or overexposure may be defined as an abnormal shooting condition, and a relief process by gradation correction or color correction may be performed.

Alternatively, the Konica Digital Revio and the Konica QM-200 are compared, and the QM-200 is
The items to be subjected to the image processing and the processing time may be adjusted based on empirical values such that the validity of the specific shooting condition is expected to be low.

These judgments of legitimacy may be made from the channel data for contrast and saturation correction stored in the memory, but in multivariate analysis, pattern matching, etc.
Defined from the combination of multiple factors (information items),
It is desirable to perform the determination based on the similarity to so-called plural reference spaces. Further, a storage means for reflecting or accumulating the result corrected by the correction by the operator may be provided.

In the present invention, "optimizing the predetermined image processing condition according to the determined validity of the photographing condition" means "determining (validating) the validity of the photographing condition". Quantifying the presence or absence of image processing and the adaptation amount according to the result (represented by concrete numerical values). For example,
For example, the contrast adjustment amount is increased by 5%, and the saturation adjustment amount is decreased by 10%. In addition,
Generally, when the contrast is corrected, the saturation is changed. Therefore, the saturation change amount is set in consideration of the saturation change amount according to the contrast correction amount.

Further, according to the present invention, in addition to the contrast and the saturation, the lens of the camera, the focus performance and the like can be the targets of the image processing as the camera type is specified.

The "information attached to the image data" as used in the present invention means information on the photographing condition setting and the subject recorded in the head portion (header) of the image data, for example, exposure time, shutter speed, aperture value. (F number), I
Shooting condition settings such as SO sensitivity, brightness value, subject distance range, light source, flash firing, subject area, white balance, zoom magnification, subject configuration, shooting scene type, amount of reflected light from the flash light source, and shooting saturation And a tag (code) indicating information about the subject. As a standard for recording as tag information, for example, “Baseline”, which is adopted as an uncompressed file of an Exif file, is used.
Tiff Rev. 6.0 RGB Full Col
or Image ”and a JPEG format compressed data file format.

In the present invention, the information regarding the user's preference, for example, the value or code value input by the user using the setting menu or the key provided in the camera is read out, and the input value or code is read. From the value,
The user's preference pattern is specified, and further information regarding the output medium, for example, a setting menu provided in the camera,
Alternatively, the user reads the value or code value input by the user using the keys, the user specifies the order details from the input value or code value, and corrects the LUT stored in the memory in advance from the combination of these specified results. Quantity, for example,
It may have a function of determining the saturation enhancement amount of the LUT, the γ reduction amount of the intermediate luminance, and the like.

The information relating to the user's preference is information relating to the gradation setting of the image data, and specifically, it prefers a soft tone tendency with high lightness and low saturation, and low lightness with high saturation. For example, he prefers a high contrast tendency.

The information regarding the output medium is information regarding the type and size of the output medium, and more specifically, information regarding the type and size of the print ordered by the user, for example, an L-plate size silver halide print (menu , "Photo print" or the like), A4 size ink jet print, CD-R writing with a predetermined resolution setting, or index print of a predetermined size.

The information relating to the user's preference and the information relating to the output medium may be information recorded by the camera at the beginning portion (header) of the image data, and the operator or the user can use the interface of the image processing apparatus of the present invention. However, it is also possible to directly input the information regarding the taste of the user and the information regarding the output medium.

[0082]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

1 and 2 are block diagrams showing an example of the configuration of an image processing apparatus (21a) to which an image forming method according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing apparatus (21a) according to the present embodiment uses a camera (1a) which is a digital camera to extract image data from a memory card in which image data acquired by photographing a subject is recorded. A reading unit (2a) for reading, an image capturing condition recorded by the camera (1a) at the time of image capturing, a camera type, an input unit A (16a) for reading information related to the type of the information main subject, and the configuration of the subject, and the user sets processing conditions. And input means B (17a) for Also,
Shooting condition specifying means (22a), camera type specifying means (3
a), main subject type / configuration identification means (23a), image data analysis means (24a), validity determination means (25)
a), a standardization processing means (4a), an image processing condition optimization means (6a), and a condition storage means (5a) for storing image processing conditions.

Further, the user preference specifying means (7a) for specifying the user's preference, the output medium specifying means (8a) for specifying the output medium, and the user preference specifying means (7).
a) A gradation correction method determination unit (20a) including gradation correction setting correction means (9a) for correcting the gradation correction setting based on the result obtained by the output medium specifying means (8a). In addition, the condition optimization means (6a) and the gradation correction setting determined by the gradation correction setting correction means (9a)
Gradation correction processing means (10a) displayed on a CRT monitor (18a) as actual image data, color correction processing (11a) for performing color correction processing, sharpness processing means (12a) for adjusting sharpness, noise reduction processing. A noise processing means (13a) for applying a noise, a printer (14a) for making a print (15a), and a CD-R writing means (1
9a).

Next, the processing performed on the image data by the gradation correction processing means (10a) will be described in detail.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the setting of the gradation conversion table (lookup table (hereinafter referred to as “LUT”)) of the image forming method according to the embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 3, a curve (G) in the first quadrant (A) indicates a normalization process in which an object having a reflection density of 0.7 has a reflection density of 0.5 to 0.9 on the output medium. Is applied to obtain the logarithmic exposure amount from the gradation characteristics of the camera whose gradation γ and saturation are adjusted. The straight line (H) in the second quadrant (B) is for adjusting the brightness of the entire image, and is translated in the direction of the arrow indicated by E (hereinafter referred to as the “LUT translation amount”). Adjust by. The curve (I) in the third quadrant (C) adjusts γ of the entire image (hereinafter, referred to as “γ decrease amount or γ increase amount”).
It is for. The curve (J) in the fourth quadrant (D) shows the gradation characteristics reproduced on the print.

Point F indicated by an arrow on the curve (G) indicates the average value (Rin, Gin, Bin) of the image data. At this point, the brightness on the print is adjusted (E) by the straight line (H) in the second quadrant (B). The gradation characteristic reproduced on the print is corrected by the curve (I) of the third quadrant (C), and the leg (shadow portion), abdomen, and shoulder (high) of the curve (J) of the fourth quadrant (D) are corrected. By adjusting γ of the light part, γ1 (leg part (shadow part) γ), γ2 (abdominal part γ), γ3 (shoulder part (highlight part) γ) shown in the curve (J) can be set to arbitrary values. By setting, desired gradation characteristics can be obtained on the print.

In the present invention, γ of the curve (J) is set so that γ of the leg (shadow portion) and shoulder (highlight portion) is smaller than that of the abdomen. As a method of calculating the average value of the image data, for example, pixels adjacent to each other in hue and saturation and adjacent to each other are extracted as the same group, and the overall density is calculated from the simple average of each group and the number of pixels. There is a method represented by the following formula (1).

Formula (1) Ao = ΣA (j) · F (N (j)) / F (N (j)) In Formula (1), Ao is the average value and A (j) is the average concentration of group j. , N (j) represent the number of pixels in group j.

Next, the condition optimizing means (6a) is set in FIG.
The process of obtaining the curve (G) in the first quadrant (A) of is described.

First, when a photographic print is created using a digital printer from image data acquired from a digital camera, using a gray standard patch having a reflection density of 0.7 (reflectance of 18%) as an object, In order to always reproduce the reflection density of the reproduced gray standard patch within 0.5 to 0.9, fixed point matching is performed and the tone setting of the digital printer is set as an initial value. In this state, only the reflection density of 0.7 (reflectance 18%) has the same density on the print.

Then, conversion processing for equalizing the gradation γ and the saturation is performed. Specifically, it is to match the curve (G) in the first quadrant (A) of FIG. Here, when all the digital cameras are made to coincide with the curve (G) in the first quadrant (A) of FIG. 3, regarding the gradation and the saturation of the image other than the control of the photographing condition, that is, the image photographed under the reference condition. Will be approximately approximate.

In the present invention, the third quadrant (C) of FIG.
The desired print gradation characteristics (contrast, saturation) can be obtained by adjusting the curve (I). In order to set the adjustment target (level), the photographing condition specifying means (22
a), camera type identification means (3a), main subject type
Based on the information from the configuration specifying means (23a) and the image data analyzing means (24a), the validity determining means (25
The feature is that the validity of the photographing exposure state is judged in a).

For the gradation setting for each digital camera, which is the initial value, a chart composed of a plurality of reflection densities centered on a gray standard patch having a reflection density of 0.7 (reflectance 18%) is photographed. , Use the one obtained in advance. When the initial value is completely absent, the gradation characteristic curve created by using a plurality of gray pixels extracted from one or a plurality of image data (other than the chart) is used for the gradation correction processing.

The result obtained by the condition optimizing means (6a) is stored in the storage medium for each camera type by the condition storing means (5a) as a difference from the curve (G) or as a setting parameter for image processing. . According to the present invention, as the camera type is specified, the lens of the camera, the exposure control, the focus performance, and the like can be the target of the image processing, and these processes are also performed by the condition optimizing means (6a). . The image processing conditions are also included in the data accumulated for each camera type.

Next, the process of determining the gradation correction amount in the gradation correction method determination unit (20a) will be described in detail.

In the case of the configuration of the image processing apparatus to which the image forming method according to the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 is applied, the input unit A (16a) has one of the information regarding the user's preference and the information regarding the output medium, Or read both.

In case of only the information about the user's preference,
The input unit A (16a) reads out information relating to the user's preference, for example, a setting menu provided in the camera (1a) or a value or code value input by the user using a key. Based on the input value or code value, the user preference specifying means (7a) prefers a user's preference pattern, for example, softness tends to be high in brightness and low in saturation, and low in brightness and high in saturation. Identify trends, etc. When it is specified that the user prefers a soft tone tendency with high lightness and low saturation, the gradation correction setting correction means (9a) adjusts the LUT correction amount, for example, the LUT translation amount of 3%,
Conditions such as setting the γ reduction amount of the intermediate luminance to 10% are determined.

In the case of only the information regarding the output medium, the input means A (16a) uses the information regarding the output medium, for example, the setting menu provided in the camera (1a) or the value or code value input by the user using the key. Read out. From the input value or code value, the output medium specifying means (8a) displays information about the type and size of the print ordered by the user, for example, an L plate size silver halide print (displayed as “photo print” in the menu). ), A4 size inkjet print, C with predetermined resolution setting
The D-R writing or the index print of a predetermined size is specified. When the print is specified as the L plate size silver salt print, no correction is performed. When the print is specified as the A4 size ink jet print, the gradation correction setting correction unit (9a) corrects the LUT, for example, the saturation of the LUT. The enhancement amount is determined to be 5% and the intermediate luminance γ reduction amount is determined to be 10%.

When the input means A (16a) reads both the information regarding the user's preference and the information regarding the output medium, in the case of both the information regarding the user's preference and the information regarding the output medium, the input means A (16a). Is information related to the user's taste, such as a setting menu provided in the camera (1a) or a value or code value entered by the user using the keys, information related to the output medium,
For example, the setting menu provided in the camera (1a) or the value or code value input by the user using the key is read. From the input value or code value, the user preference specifying means (7a) prefers a user's preference pattern, for example, a soft tone tendency with a high lightness and a low saturation, or a hard tone tendency with a low lightness and a high saturation. The output medium specifying means (8a) specifies the user's preference and the like, and the output medium specifying means (8a) provides information on the type and size of the print ordered by the user, for example, an L-plate size silver halide print (displayed as "photo print" in the menu)
A4 size ink jet print, CD-R writing with a predetermined resolution setting, or index print of a predetermined size is specified. The user preference specifying means (7a) compares the specification result with the gradation correction setting correcting means (9
a) and further from the output medium specifying means (8a) to the gradation correction setting correcting means (9a), the gradation correction setting correcting means (9a) is stored in the memory in advance in combination with the specifying result. Determine the correction amount for the LUT.

When the correction amount of the LUT is determined by the gradation correction method determination unit (20a) (gradation correction setting correction means (9a)), the gradation correction processing means (10a) then performs gradation correction. Is given. Image data with gradation correction is CR
It can be displayed and confirmed on the T monitor (18a).

If it is determined that further correction is necessary, the operator uses the setting menu or key provided in the input means B (17a) to make the correction. The value or code value input by the operator is transmitted to the gradation correction setting correction means (9a), and the LUT correction amount is determined by the gradation correction setting correction means (9a). The determined LUT correction is transmitted to the gradation correction processing means (10a) means, and the image data subjected to the gradation correction again is CR.
It is displayed on the T monitor (18a), and the operator confirms whether the desired quality is obtained.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing another example of the configuration of the image processing apparatus to which the image forming method according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied.
A header analysis means (16b) is provided for reading out the tag information when the user's preference information and the output medium information are all recorded as the tag information of the image data.

In the configuration of the image processing apparatus to which the image forming method according to the embodiment of the present invention shown in the block diagrams of FIGS. 1 and 2 is applied, the user preference specifying means (7a, 7a,
7b), the output medium specifying means (8a, 8b) obtains the information regarding the user's preference recorded by the camera and the information regarding the output medium by using the input means A (16a) and the header analyzing means (16b). If the user directly inputs the image using the image processing device (21a, 21b), the input means B (17a), the input means B
(17b) has a function for directly inputting.

Next, the embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing of the image forming method according to the embodiment of the present invention.

The image data is read from the memory card in which the image data obtained by photographing the subject with the digital camera is recorded (1). Next, header analysis (2) for reading the tag information is performed. Read camera type, user preference, tag information about output medium,
Other shooting conditions, for example, exposure time, shutter speed, aperture value (F number), ISO sensitivity, brightness value, subject distance range, light source, flash firing, subject area,
The white balance, the zoom magnification, the subject configuration, the shooting scene type, the amount of reflected light from the strobe light source, the shooting saturation, etc. are recorded in the storage medium (23).

Next, the image data is analyzed (25),
The obtained information is recorded in the storage medium (23). The tag information read by the header analysis (2) recorded in the storage medium and the result obtained by the analysis of the image data are combined to judge the validity of the shooting condition (3).

From the validity judgment result (3), it is judged whether or not there is an optimization processing condition for image processing (4), and if there is, the optimization condition is read from the storage medium (23) (24), Application (9) of gradation correction and color correction processing is performed.
On the other hand, when there is no optimization condition in the storage medium, the standardization process condition is read from the storage medium (23) and the standardization process is performed (5). From the result of the correctness judgment (3), it is judged whether γ is appropriate from the image data that has been subjected to the normalization processing (6), and if it is softer than a predetermined value, the hardening processing (7) is performed. If the contrast is higher than the predetermined value, the softening process (8) is performed.

Next, from the result of the validity judgment (3), it is judged whether the saturation is appropriate (11), and if the saturation is higher than a predetermined value, the saturation reduction processing (20) is performed and the predetermined saturation is obtained. If the saturation is lower than the value, saturation enhancement processing (21) is performed.

The optimized gradation correction and color correction processing conditions are stored in the storage medium (23) for each camera type.

If there is a value or code value input by the user using the setting menu or the key provided in the camera, the information on the user's preference is then output (10). For example, if there is a value or code value input by the user using the setting menu or key provided in the camera and if there is (12), the correction amount of the LUT (for example, the parallel movement amount of the LUT, Considering the user's preference and output medium (gamma reduction amount of specific brightness, etc.) (gradation correction table calculation)
(14) to correct the gradation correction table (1
5). On the other hand, when there is no information regarding the output medium, the correction amount of the LUT is determined and the gradation correction table is corrected using only the information regarding the user's preference (15).

If there is no information regarding the user's preference (10), it is checked whether there is information regarding the output medium (13). If it exists, the correction amount of the LUT is determined and the gradation correction table is corrected (15). On the other hand, if there is no information on the output medium, the gradation correction table is set from the information obtained up to that point (16). It should be noted that the condition table or the like stored in the storage medium in advance is read out as needed, and the LUT correction amount is determined with reference to this.

The gradation correction (17) and the color correction processing (18) are performed by the gradation correction table created by the above processing, and the processing is ended.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing an example of the processing flow of the image forming method according to the first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the image forming method according to the second embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the image forming method according to the third embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing an example of the processing flow of the image forming method according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing an example of the processing flow of the image forming method according to the fifth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an example of the processing flow of the image forming method according to the sixth embodiment of the invention.

In FIG. 4, it is judged whether the contrast and saturation are appropriate based on the result of the judgment (3) of the validity of the photographing condition. In FIGS. 5-10, the validity of the photographing condition is judged (5c-).
Based on the result of 5h), it is determined whether the shooting condition is abnormal, and whether image processing is applied or not is determined according to the determination result.

[0122]

According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the variation in the quality of digital print due to the difference in the model of the digital camera by judging the validity of the photographing condition with high accuracy and optimizing the image processing condition based on the judgment result. It was possible to provide a novel image forming method, and an image processing apparatus and a print creating apparatus using the same.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image processing apparatus to which an image forming method of the present invention is applied.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing another example of the configuration of an image processing apparatus to which the image forming method of the present invention is applied.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting of a gradation conversion table (lookup table) according to the image forming method of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing in the image forming method of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing flow in the image forming method according to the first aspect of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing in the image forming method of the invention according to claim 2;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing in the image forming method according to the third aspect of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing in the image forming method of the invention according to claim 4;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing in the image forming method of the invention according to claim 5;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing in the image forming method of the invention according to claim 6;

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI theme code (reference) H04N 1/60 H04N 1/40 D 5/76 101E 5/907 1/46 Z F term (reference) 5B057 BA02 BA11 CE02 CE03 CE11 CE17 CH07 DA08 DB06 DB09 DC23 DC25 5C052 AA11 AA17 CC11 DD02 EE03 EE08 FA02 FA03 FA04 FA09 FD02 FD03 FD04 FD05 FD13 FE01 FE06 GA02 GA03 GA05 GA06 GA06 GA06 GA06 GA06 GA06 FA06 FA06 FA08 FA08 FA08 FA06 FA06 FA06 FA08 FA08 FA06 FA06 FA06 FA06 FA06 FA36 NP07 PP15 PP32 PP37 PP52 PP53 PQ19 PQ23 5C079 HB01 LA12 LA15 LB01 MA04 MA17

Claims (41)

[Claims] 1. An image forming method for subjecting image data of a photographed image to predetermined image processing to create image data for output, analyzing the image data, specifying a photographing condition, and performing the specified photographing. From the condition and the image data analysis value,
An image forming method, comprising: judging the legitimacy of a photographing condition, and optimizing the predetermined image processing condition according to the legitimacy of the judged photographing condition. 2. An image forming method for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to create image data for output, wherein an image capturing condition, a type of a main subject or a subject configuration is specified, and the identified The validity of the shooting conditions is judged from the shooting conditions and the type or structure of the main subject.
An image forming method, characterized in that the predetermined image processing condition is optimized according to the validity of the determined photographing condition. 3. An image forming method for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to create image data for output, analyzing the image data, identifying a camera type, and identifying the identified camera. An image forming method characterized by determining the validity of a shooting condition from a type and an image data analysis value, and optimizing the predetermined image processing condition in accordance with the validity of the determined shooting condition. 4. An image forming method for subjecting image data of a photographed image to predetermined image processing to create image data for output, analyzing the image data, specifying a photographing condition and a camera type, The validity of the shooting condition is judged from the specified shooting condition, camera type and image data analysis value, and the predetermined image processing condition is optimized according to the validity of the judged shooting condition. A characteristic image forming method. 5. In an image forming method for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to create image data for output, a capturing condition, a camera type, and a main subject type or a subject configuration are specified, The validity of the shooting condition is determined from the identified shooting condition, camera type, and main subject type or subject configuration, and the predetermined image processing condition is determined according to the validity of the determined shooting condition. An image forming method, characterized by optimizing. 6. An image forming method for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to create image data for output, analyzing the image data, capturing conditions, camera types, and types of main subjects. Alternatively, the subject configuration is specified, and from the identified shooting conditions, camera type, main subject type or subject configuration, and image data analysis value,
An image forming method, comprising: judging the legitimacy of a photographing condition, and optimizing the predetermined image processing condition according to the legitimacy of the judged photographing condition. 7. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the photographing condition.
7. The image forming method according to any one of 4 to 6. 8. The image forming method according to claim 2, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to identify the type or the subject configuration of the main subject. 9. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the camera type.
The image forming method according to any one of 1. 10. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the photographing condition and the type or composition of the main subject.
The image forming method according to item. 11. The image forming method according to claim 4, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to specify the photographing condition and the camera type. 12. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the photographing condition, the camera type, the type of the main subject, or the subject configuration.
The image forming method described in 1 .. 13. The predetermined image processing is gradation correction processing and color correction processing.
The image forming method according to any one of 1. 14. The image forming method according to claim 1, wherein the validity is determined by referring to an empirical value recorded in a storage medium. 15. An image processing apparatus for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, means for analyzing the image data, means for identifying a shooting condition, and the identified A means for judging the validity of the shooting condition from the shooting condition and the image data analysis value, and means for optimizing the condition of the predetermined image processing according to the validity of the judged shooting condition. Image processing device. 16. An image processing apparatus for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, and means for identifying a shooting condition and a type of a main subject or a subject configuration, and the means. And a means for optimizing the condition of the predetermined image processing in accordance with the justification of the determined photographing condition. An image processing apparatus having. 17. An image processing apparatus for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, means for analyzing the image data, means for identifying a camera type, and the identified And a means for judging the validity of the photographing condition from the camera type and the image data analysis value, and a means for optimizing the condition of the predetermined image processing according to the validity of the judged photographing condition. Image processing device. 18. An image processing apparatus for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to obtain output image data, means for analyzing the image data, and means for identifying a shooting condition and a camera type. Means for judging the validity of the photographing condition from the specified photographing condition, camera type and image data analysis value, and means for optimizing the condition of the predetermined image processing according to the validity of the judged photographing condition. An image processing apparatus comprising: 19. In an image processing apparatus for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, means for specifying a capturing condition, a camera type, and a main subject type or a subject configuration. Means for judging the validity of the shooting condition from the specified shooting condition, camera type, and main subject type or subject configuration, and the predetermined image processing depending on the validity of the judged shooting condition. And a means for optimizing the above condition. 20. An image processing apparatus for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, a means for analyzing the image data, an image capturing condition, a camera type, and a main subject type or a subject. A means for identifying the configuration, a means for determining the validity of the shooting condition from the identified shooting condition, camera type, main subject type or subject configuration, and image data analysis value; An image processing apparatus comprising: means for optimizing the condition of the predetermined image processing according to legitimacy. 21. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the photographing condition.
The image processing device according to any one of 16, 18 to 20. 22. The image processing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to identify the type or the subject configuration of the main subject. 23. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the camera type.
The image processing device according to any one of 20 to 20. 24. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the photographing condition and the type or structure of a main subject. Image processing device. 25. The image processing apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to identify the photographing condition and the camera type. 26. The image processing apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to specify the shooting condition, the camera type, and the type or the subject configuration of the main subject. . 27. The predetermined image process is a gradation correction process and a color correction process.
The image processing device according to any one of 6 above. 28. In a print creating apparatus for subjecting image data of a photographed image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, a unit for analyzing the image data, a unit for identifying a photographing condition, and the identified unit. And a means for judging the validity of the shooting condition from the shooting condition and the image data analysis value, and a means for optimizing the predetermined image processing condition in accordance with the validity of the judged shooting condition. And a print making device. 29. In a print creating apparatus for subjecting image data of a photographed image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, a unit for identifying a photographing condition and a type of a main subject or a subject configuration, and the specifying unit. And a means for optimizing the condition of the predetermined image processing according to the justification of the judged photographing condition. A print creation apparatus characterized by having. 30. In a print creating apparatus for subjecting image data of a photographed image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, a unit for analyzing the image data, a unit for identifying the camera type, and the identified unit. And a means for judging the validity of the photographing condition from the camera type and the image data analysis value, and a means for optimizing the condition of the predetermined image processing according to the validity of the judged photographing condition. Print making device. 31. A print creating apparatus for subjecting image data of a captured image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, a unit for analyzing the image data, a unit for identifying a photographing condition and a camera type. The specified shooting conditions,
And a means for determining the validity of the shooting condition from the camera type and the image data analysis value, and a means for optimizing the predetermined image processing condition according to the validity of the determined shooting condition. Print making device. 32. A means for specifying a shooting condition, a camera type, and a main subject type or a subject configuration in a print creating apparatus for subjecting image data of a shot image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output. A means for judging the validity of the shooting condition based on the specified shooting condition, the camera type, and the type of the main subject or the subject configuration, and the predetermined image processing according to the validity of the determined shooting condition. And a means for optimizing conditions. 33. A print creating apparatus for subjecting image data of a photographed image to predetermined image processing to obtain image data for output, a means for analyzing the image data, a photographing condition, a camera type, and a main subject type or Means for specifying the subject configuration, means for determining the validity of the shooting conditions from the identified shooting conditions, camera type, main subject type or subject configuration, and image data analysis value; And a means for optimizing the condition of the predetermined image processing according to legitimacy. 34. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the photographing condition.
29. The print creating apparatus according to any one of 29, 31 to 33. 35. The print creating apparatus according to claim 29, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to specify the type or the subject configuration of the main subject. 36. The information attached to the image data is used to specify the camera type.
34. The print creating apparatus according to any one of items 33 to 33. 37. The information attached to the image data is used to identify the type of the main subject or the subject configuration or the subject configuration, according to any one of claims 29, 32, and 33. Print making device. 38. To specify the photographing condition and the camera type,
34. The print creating apparatus according to claim 31, wherein the information attached to the image data is used. 39. The print creating apparatus according to claim 32, wherein the information attached to the image data is used to specify the shooting condition, the camera type, and the main subject type or subject configuration. 40. The predetermined image processing is gradation correction processing and color correction processing.
9. The print creation device according to any one of 9 above. 41. A storage medium storing a program for executing the image forming method according to claim 1 by a computer.