JP2005191960A - Imaging apparatus, synchronous photography assisting apparatus, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To carry out synchronous photographing by simple constitution and to reduce consumption power. <P>SOLUTION: When a shutter button 16 is depressed, a CPU 51 of a digital camera apparatus 20 discriminates whether or not the digital camera apparatus 20 is in a synchronous photography mode. When it is in the synchronous photography mode, the CPU 51 prohibits a flash light emitting part 12 from emitting flash light. When a photosensitive signal is inputted from a photosensitive unit 17, the CPU 51 controls a CCD unit 53 synchronizing with the input and performs photoelectric conversion by the CCD for imaging to obtain an image signal showing an object to be imaged. The CPU 51 records the obtained image signal in an image recording medium 55a through the IF part 55b of an image recording unit 55. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging device, a synchronous shooting support device, and a program, and more particularly, to an imaging device, a synchronous shooting support device, and a program for performing synchronous shooting with low power consumption.

  Conventionally, cameras equipped with a light emitting device such as a strobe have been widely used. In such a camera, a mode for selecting a light emitting operation of the light emitting device is usually prepared. In general, the “automatic flash mode” in which the camera automatically controls the flash based on the amount of light in the shooting space, etc. “Mode”, “Light emission prohibition mode” for forcibly prohibiting light emission for the photographer's intention, and the like are prepared.

  In general shooting, an “automatic light emission mode” that allows easy shooting is often selected. In this case, in an environment (dark place) where the amount of light in the photographing space is small, such as indoors or at night, light is automatically emitted at the time of photographing according to the judgment of the camera. When shooting without light emission in such an environment, camera shake occurs or the subject (subject) becomes unclear. Accordingly, in many cases, light emission by a light emitting device is required for photographing in such an environment.

  On the other hand, light emission using the light emitting device consumes a lot of power. In particular, a so-called “digital camera” that captures an image using a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) includes a liquid crystal display device for displaying a captured image or the like. high. Therefore, when photographing with light emission is frequently performed with such a digital camera, battery power is significantly consumed. As a result, inconveniences such as shortening of the shootable time occur.

  In order to solve such a problem, a technique for preventing battery consumption of the camera device has been proposed. For example, a technology is known that enables photography by using two batteries, a strobe battery and an electric circuit battery, and using an electronic circuit battery that consumes less power even after the strobe battery is exhausted ( For example, Patent Document 1).

  However, in the invention of Patent Document 1, even if the strobe battery is consumed, normal photographing using natural light can only be continued, and photographing cannot be performed in a dark place where strobe light emission is required. . That is, the shooting environment is limited, and there are cases where the shooting desired by the photographer cannot be performed.

  On the other hand, there is also a demand for simultaneously shooting (synchronous shooting) the same shooting target using a plurality of cameras. Usually, when it is desired to photograph one subject at different angles, it is necessary to photograph by a plurality of photographers. However, when a plurality of photographers shoot, it is difficult to completely match the shooting timings, and it is difficult to take photographs of different angles at the same time.

  In addition, for example, when a novice shooter learns shooting technology, if the shooting timing and shooting parameters (shutter speed, aperture value, etc.) of advanced users can be known immediately at the shooting site, it will help improve shooting technology. Can be considered.

  Further, when it is desired to compare different subjects at remote locations at the same time, it is also difficult to photograph these subjects at the same timing.

  Conventionally, when synchronous photography is performed with a plurality of cameras, expensive equipment is required or large-scale organized activities cannot be implemented. Therefore, it is desired to establish a simple technique that allows another camera to take an image at the shooting timing of one camera when shooting with a plurality of cameras.

JP 2002-176574 A

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an imaging apparatus, a synchronous imaging support apparatus, and a power consumption reduction method that can easily realize synchronous imaging.

  It is another object of the present invention to provide an imaging apparatus, a synchronous imaging support apparatus, and a power consumption reduction method that can reduce power consumption.

In order to achieve the above object, an imaging apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention provides:
Detecting means for detecting imaging timing by another imaging device;
Imaging means for imaging in synchronization with imaging timing by the other imaging device detected by the detection means,
It is characterized by that.

In the imaging apparatus,
Preferably, the detection means further includes a reception means for receiving a timing signal indicating a photographing timing by the other imaging device from the other imaging device.
It is desirable to detect the shooting timing of the other imaging device based on the reception of the signal by the receiving means.

In the imaging apparatus,
The timing signal may include identification information indicating a predetermined other imaging device, in this case,
It is desirable that the imaging unit performs imaging when the receiving unit receives a timing signal including predetermined identification information.

In the imaging apparatus,
The timing signal may include shooting parameters of the other imaging device, and in this case,
It is desirable that the imaging unit captures an image based on a shooting parameter included in a timing signal received by the receiving unit.

In the imaging apparatus,
The imaging means further comprises continuous imaging means for acquiring an image according to the passage of time by continuous imaging,
The receiving unit may further include a storage unit that stores in advance information indicating a transfer time of the timing signal.
Preferably, the imaging unit acquires an image corresponding to a time point that is backed by the transfer time from a time point when the receiving unit receives the timing signal, from an image acquired by the continuous imaging unit.

In the imaging apparatus,
The detection means may detect an imaging timing of the other imaging device by sensing light emitted from the other imaging device.

The imaging device captures an image using an imaging element that accumulates electric charges converted by photoelectric conversion.
The detection means may detect light emission by the other imaging device based on a change in a charge accumulation amount of the imaging element.

The imaging apparatus is
It is desirable to further include an image sensor control means for controlling the image sensor, in this case,
The image sensor control means repeats the charge accumulation start to the image sensor and the discharge of the accumulated charge every predetermined time,
The detection unit detects imaging accompanied by light emission by the other imaging device by detecting whether or not the amount of accumulated charge has exceeded a predetermined value between the start of charge accumulation and the discharge. It is desirable.

Also,
The image sensor control means may perform charge accumulation in the image sensor for the predetermined time from the time when the detection means detects that the accumulated charge amount is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. ,
It is desirable that the imaging unit captures an image by acquiring an image signal based on the accumulated charge.

Or
You may further provide the histogram acquisition means which acquires the histogram based on input light, in this case,
The detection unit may detect light emission by the other imaging device based on a change in the histogram acquired by the histogram acquisition unit.

The imaging device may further include a light emitting device that emits light during imaging.
It is preferable that the imaging unit captures an image without driving the light emitting device in synchronization with an imaging timing of another imaging device detected by the detection unit.

In the imaging apparatus,
Mode selection means for allowing the user to select one of a synchronous mode for photographing in synchronization with the photographing timing of the other imaging device and an asynchronous mode for photographing without synchronizing with the photographing timing of the other imaging device;
It is preferable that the apparatus further includes light emission control means for prohibiting the light emission operation of the light emitting device when the synchronous mode is selected by the mode selection means.

In order to achieve the above object, a synchronized photographing support apparatus according to the second aspect of the present invention provides:
A detection unit for detecting the imaging timing of the imaging device of the synchronization source;
An imaging control unit that causes the synchronization destination imaging device to capture images at the imaging timing detected by the detection unit;
It is characterized by providing.

In the synchronous photographing support device,
The detection unit may further include a transmission unit that acquires and transmits a timing signal indicating an imaging timing of the imaging device from the synchronization source imaging device.
The imaging control unit further includes a receiving unit that receives the timing signal transmitted by the transmitting unit,
It is desirable that the imaging control unit causes the synchronization destination imaging device to perform imaging in synchronization with reception of the timing signal by the reception unit.

In order to achieve the above object, a program according to the third aspect of the present invention is:
In the computer that controls the imaging device,
A detection step of detecting imaging timing by another imaging device;
An imaging step of executing an imaging operation of the imaging apparatus in synchronization with the detected imaging timing of the other imaging apparatus;
Is executed.

The imaging device may include a light emitting device, in this case,
In the imaging step, it is desirable to execute an imaging operation without driving the light emitting device in synchronization with the imaging timing of the other imaging device.

  According to the present invention, synchronous imaging can be realized with a simple configuration, and the power consumption of the imaging apparatus can be reduced.

  Embodiments according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, an example will be described below in which a digital camera that captures an image using a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) captures an image in an imaging space (such as indoors or at night) with a small amount of light. The digital camera device 20 according to the present embodiment includes a light emitting device (flash light emitting unit 12) such as a strobe that emits flash light based on a predetermined light emission mode. Here, as the light emission mode, the “automatic light emission mode” in which the CPU 51 of the digital camera device 20 determines whether or not the light emission is necessary based on the amount of light in the photographing space and automatically controls the light emission. It is assumed that a “forced light emission mode” for causing the camera to emit light and a “light emission inhibition mode” for forcibly inhibiting the light emission for the photographer's intention are prepared. The digital camera device 20 according to the present embodiment will be described below assuming that the “automatic light emission mode” is selected.

  In the embodiment according to the present invention, it is assumed that there is another camera device 30 that images the same subject (subject) 40 in the same photographing space. The other camera device 30 has a light emitting device such as a strobe, and in the photographing, the light emitting device emits light for photographing.

  Before explaining the digital camera device 20 and the like according to the present embodiment, a flash photographing operation by a general digital camera device equipped with a strobe is shown in FIG.

  In the figure, the conventional digital camera device flashes the strobe during shooting to obtain the brightness of the shooting target ((a) in the figure). In this digital camera device, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) (not shown) clears a charge amount (charge amount) that has been photoelectrically converted and accumulated (charged) by a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image pickup device, and a user releases a shutter. When the button is pressed, the CCD image pickup device starts charging the image to be photographed substantially simultaneously. The shutter opening period from the start of charging to the end of charging is determined by an aperture amount, a shutter speed, and the like that are determined in advance for flash photography.

  In a conventional digital camera device, after a shutter button is pressed, a CPU (not shown) flashes its own strobe during the shutter opening period. After flash emission, charging of the image to be imaged is terminated by the CCD image sensor ((1) in (b) in the figure), and after the charging is completed, the charge amount is maintained (saved) by the CCD image sensor ((b in the figure (b)). (2)). During the charge amount maintaining period, the CPU AD-converts the electrical signal (analog signal) of the image to be photographed that has been photoelectrically converted by the CCD image pickup device by the AD converter, executes image processing such as image compression processing, and the like. Is recorded on a recording medium as a digital signal. After reading the image signal charged from the CCD image sensor, the CPU discharges the CCD image sensor and clears the charge.

(Embodiment 1)
Hereinafter, Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration of a digital camera apparatus according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the digital camera device 20 according to this embodiment includes a CPU 51, a lens unit 52, a CCD unit 53, a distance / photometry unit 54, an image recording unit 55, a storage unit 56, an I / O An O unit 57 and a power supply unit 70 are provided. The I / O unit 57 is connected to the light sensing unit 17, the shutter button 16, the flash light emitting unit 12, the display unit 65, the input unit 66, and the like.

  The CPU 51 includes a timer that performs processing control and time measurement, a control unit that performs the above-described member control processing, a calculation unit, a main storage unit, and the like, and controls each unit of the digital camera device 20 according to the present embodiment. Further, the CPU 51 controls each unit of the digital camera device 20 by executing an operation program stored in a predetermined storage unit (ROM or the like). Each process to be described later is realized by the CPU 51 executing a predetermined operation program.

  The lens unit 52 includes an optical member 52a composed of a lens group, diaphragm blades, and the like, and a drive unit 52b that drives the optical member 52a. The drive unit 52b drives the optical member 52a so as to focus on the object 40 to be photographed with a set aperture based on a command from the CPU 51.

  The CCD unit 53 includes an imaging device 53a such as a CCD, a driver circuit 53b that controls image information stored in the imaging device 53a, control of imaging, and the like, and converts an analog signal stored in the imaging device 53a into a digital signal. AD conversion circuit 53c is provided. The imaging element 53a includes an exposure measurement CCD and an imaging CCD. The exposure measurement CCD is composed of, for example, a single pixel CCD, and the imaging CCD is composed of, for example, a multi-million pixel CCD. Here, the image sensor 53a converts the input light input via the lens unit 52 into electric charge by photoelectric conversion and accumulates (charges) it. An electrical signal based on the accumulated charge amount (charge amount) constitutes an image signal indicating the imaging target 40. Therefore, the shutter of the digital camera device 20 according to the present embodiment is realized by controlling charge accumulation in the imaging CCD of the imaging element 53a. That is, the shutter speed is determined by the charge accumulation time of the imaging CCD. The brightness such as the exposure value is measured by the amount of charge accumulated in the exposure measurement CCD.

  The distance measurement / photometry unit 54, based on the input light acquired via the optical member 52 a of the lens unit 52, the distance from the digital camera device 20 to the shooting target 40 and the shooting space including the shooting target 40. Measure the amount of light. Here, the distance measurement / photometry unit 54 performs exposure measurement in cooperation with the exposure measurement CCD of the CCD unit 53. That is, the amount of light in the imaging space is measured based on the amount of charge accumulated in the exposure measurement CCD, and the CPU 51 selects an appropriate exposure value and shutter speed based on the measured amount of light. The CPU 51 sends a drive signal for instructing an operation based on the measurement result of the distance measurement / photometry unit 54 to the drive unit 52b of the lens unit 52, whereby the optical member 52a is driven to perform aperture adjustment and focusing. .

  The image recording unit 55 includes an image recording medium 55a configured by, for example, a memory card for recording a captured image, and an IF unit 55b serving as an interface for recording the image on the image recording medium 55a.

  The storage unit 56 includes, for example, a storage device composed of a flash memory or the like, and a combination of an appropriate exposure value (aperture value) and shutter speed corresponding to a predetermined light amount value (hereinafter referred to as “imaging parameter”). , And so on. Note that the shooting parameters include setting values corresponding to the presence or absence of flash emission.

  The I / O unit 57 includes a predetermined AD conversion circuit and the like, and is connected to the light sensing unit 17, the shutter button 16, the flash light emitting unit 12, the display unit 65, and the input unit 66, and inputs from these members are digital signals. To the CPU 51.

  The light sensing unit 17 includes an optical sensor that senses external light. When sensing external light, the light sensing unit 17 generates a predetermined signal (hereinafter referred to as “light sensing signal”) indicating that the light has been sensed. The data is output to the CPU 51 via the unit 57. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the light sensing unit 17 senses flash light emitted by another camera device 30.

  The light sensing unit 17 may be configured to be integrated with the digital camera device 20 or may be attached externally via the I / O unit 57. That is, the same configuration as that of the digital camera device 20 according to the present embodiment can be obtained by attaching the separately provided light sensing unit 17 to a camera device that does not include the light sensing unit 17. If the flash emission of the other camera device 30 can be detected, the mounting position of the light sensing unit 17 and the like are arbitrary.

  The shutter button 16 is composed of a button that is movable in the vertical direction in response to a press by the user, and sends a predetermined signal to the CPU 51 when pressed by the user. In the present embodiment, when the shutter button 16 is pressed, a signal indicating a shooting start instruction is sent to the CPU 51.

  The flash light emitting unit 12 is composed of a light emitting device such as a strobe, and emits flash light during imaging based on a light emission instruction signal from the CPU 51 when the amount of light in the shooting space including the shooting target 40 is small. To compensate for the amount of light required.

  The display unit 65 is composed of a liquid crystal display device, for example, and displays an image obtained through the lens unit 52 and the CCD unit 53, a captured image, an image recorded in the image recording unit 55, and the like. Displays the user setting menu.

  The input unit 66 includes, for example, predetermined operation buttons, dials, and the like, and instructions for changing various settings are input by user operations. In the present embodiment, it is used for changing / setting various modes including a light emission mode and a shooting mode (details will be described later).

  The power supply unit 70 is configured by a battery such as a predetermined dry battery or rechargeable battery, and supplies power necessary for an imaging operation or the like of the digital camera device 20 to each unit.

  Next, the photographing operation of the digital camera device 20 of the present embodiment will be described using the system configuration shown in FIG.

  First, in the case where the digital camera device 20 of the present embodiment shoots the subject 40, when the shutter button 16 is pressed, a signal indicating that the shutter button 16 has been pressed (hereinafter referred to as a “press signal”). , Input to the CPU 51 through the I / O unit 57.

  When the pressing signal is input, the CPU 51 drives the driver circuit 53b of the CCD unit 53 to discharge the electric charge (charge amount) remaining in the image sensor 53a (charge clear). After clearing the charge of the image sensor 53 a, suitable shooting parameters (aperture value, shutter speed, etc.) in the current shooting environment are acquired from the storage unit 56 based on the measurement result of the distance measurement / photometry unit 54. The CPU 51 sends a drive signal based on the acquired setting information to the drive unit 52 b of the lens unit 52. The drive unit 52b drives the optical member 52a based on a drive signal from the CPU 51 and focuses it with a diaphragm corresponding to the setting information.

  After the setting of the optical member 52a, the CPU 51 drives and controls the driver circuit 53b and photoelectrically converts light indicating a photographing target image obtained through the lens unit 52 by the image pickup device 53a, thereby selecting the photographing target. The acquisition of the electric signal (hereinafter referred to as “image signal”) is started (charge start).

  If the light sensing unit 17 senses flash emission of another camera device during acquisition of an image signal, the light sensing unit 17 inputs a light sensing signal indicating light emission sensing to the CPU 51 via the I / O unit 57. To do. That is, the light sensing unit 17 generates a light sensing signal on the assumption that the flash light of another camera device is sensed when light having a brightness greater than a predetermined value (flash light detection threshold) is detected by a light sensor or the like. . The CPU 51 drives and controls the driver circuit 53b for a predetermined time from the input of the predetermined signal, and causes the imaging element 53a to extend (delay) the charge period of the imaging target image.

  The CPU 51 reads the image signal (analog signal) of the image to be photographed charged in the image sensor 53a by driving the driver circuit 53b etc., assuming that charging of the image to be photographed is finished after a predetermined time has elapsed. In the reading by the CPU 51, an analog image signal of the image to be photographed charged in the image sensor 53a is AD-converted by an AD conversion circuit provided in the CCD unit 53 and read as a predetermined digital image signal. Here, the CPU 51 may execute various processes such as image compression on a predetermined digital image signal. Note that any conventional technique can be used for the reading process by the CPU 51. For example, with respect to an analog image signal stored in the image pickup device 53a, a switch provided between the image pickup device 53a and the AD conversion circuit 53c is subjected to switching control so that a signal of a pixel to be AD converted is a pixel unit or a pixel. Read by row / column.

  The CPU 51 outputs the converted digital image signal to the image recording unit 55. At that time, the CPU 51 controls the IF unit 55b to perform processing such as time control and input signal control at the time of recording the digital image signal, and outputs the digital image signal to the image recording medium 55a provided in the image recording unit 55. Record. As a result, the image to be photographed is recorded on the image recording medium 55a.

Next, a usage example of the digital camera device 20 according to the present embodiment is shown in FIG.
As shown in the figure, the digital camera device 20 of the present embodiment senses flash emission by the flash light emitting unit 12 of the other camera device 30 and is a subject to be photographed in synchronization with the flash emission of the strobe of the other camera device 30. Take 40 shots.

  The digital camera device 20 according to the present embodiment does not record an image to be captured at the timing when the user presses the shutter button 16 of the digital camera device 20, but flashes with the light sensing unit 17 after the shutter button 16 is pressed. The subject 40 is photographed at the timing when the light is detected. That is, when the light sensing unit 17 senses the flash light of the other digital camera device 30, the photographing object 40 is imaged by the imaging CCD, and the photographed object image is recorded.

  In the digital camera device 20 of the present embodiment, the light sensing unit 17 senses flash emission by the strobe of the digital camera device 30 and images a subject to be photographed in synchronization with the flash emission timing of the other digital camera device 30. .

  In the digital camera device 20 of the present embodiment, after the user presses the shutter button 16, the CPU 51 determines the remaining charge amount of an image pickup device (an image pickup CCD and an exposure measurement CCD) 53 a such as a CCD provided in the CCD unit 53. clear. That is, when a pressing signal is input from the shutter button 16, the CPU 51 controls the driver circuit 53b to discharge and clear the charge amount stored in the image sensor 53a. The CPU 51 drives and controls the optical member 52a by the drive unit 52b, and sets the focal length and the diaphragm. The CPU 51 drives and controls the driver circuit 53b to start charging the image to be captured on the image sensor 53a.

  Next, FIG. 3 shows a block circuit of a flow from imaging to image recording by the digital camera device 20 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 3, the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 1, and dotted arrows and parenthesis numbers in FIG. 3 indicate input / output and order of signals between the CPU 51 and switches, circuits, and the like. Indicates.

  In the figure, when the shutter button 16 is pressed, the CPU 51 receives a pressing signal ((1) in the figure). The CPU 51 controls the driver circuit 53b to discharge and clear the charge amount charged in the image sensor 53a ((2) in the figure). The CPU 51 controls the drive of the drive unit 52b for setting the diaphragm and the like ((3) in the figure).

  The CPU 51 controls the driver circuit 53b to pick up an optical image signal obtained by passing through the lens unit 52 from the subject to be picked up by the image pickup device 53a such as a CCD ((4) in the figure). The CPU 51 detects the flash light of the other camera device 30 by the light sensing unit 17 ((5) in the figure). The CPU 51 controls the IF unit 55b in order to input a predetermined digital image signal imaged by the image sensor 53a and converted by the AD conversion circuit 53c to the image recording medium 55a ((6) in the figure).

  Next, “imaging processing” by the digital camera device 20 having the above configuration will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG. As described above, it is assumed that “automatic light emission mode” is selected as the light emission mode of the digital camera device 20. In addition, the light emission mode and the shooting mode (synchronous shooting mode or asynchronous shooting mode) are set in advance. The “imaging process” described below is started when the digital camera device 20 is in a state where it can capture an image (for example, the power is turned on).

  First, the CPU 51 of the digital camera device 20 determines whether or not the shutter button 16 has been pressed by inputting a pressing signal (step S101). If the CPU 51 determines that the shutter button 16 has not been pressed (N in step S101), the CPU 51 waits until the shutter button 16 is pressed.

  When the shutter button 16 is pressed (Y in step S101), the CPU 51 controls the distance measurement / photometry unit 54 to perform distance measurement / photometry on the photographing target 40 (step S102). That is, the amount of light in the shooting space, the distance to the shooting target 40, and the like are measured.

  The CPU 51 determines whether flash light emission is necessary in the current shooting environment based on the measurement result in step S102 (step S103). That is, since “automatic light emission mode” is selected as the light emission mode, it is determined that “light emission is not required” if the measured light intensity is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, and “light emission is required” if the light intensity is not less than the predetermined value. Determine. In addition, the CPU 51 acquires shooting parameters indicating an appropriate exposure value and an appropriate shutter speed from the storage unit 56 according to the determination result and the measurement value. That is, in the case of “requires light emission”, an exposure value or the like considering the light amount obtained by the light emission of the flash light emitting unit 12 is selected.

  When it is determined in step S103 that “light emission is required” (Y in step S103), the CPU 51 determines whether or not the set shooting mode is “synchronous shooting mode” (step S104). Here, the “synchronous shooting mode” is a mode in which shooting is performed in synchronization with the imaging timing of the other camera device 30. On the other hand, a mode in which shooting is performed without being synchronized with the imaging timing of the other camera device 30 is referred to as an “asynchronous shooting mode”. Mode setting information indicating which mode is set is recorded in a predetermined storage area of the storage unit 56. Therefore, the CPU 51 determines the shooting mode by reading the mode setting information from the storage unit 56.

  When the CPU 51 determines that “synchronous shooting mode is set” (Y in step S104), the flash light emitting unit 12 is controlled to prohibit the flash light emission during imaging (step S105). That is, when the “synchronous shooting mode” is set, the CPU 51 does not send a flash instruction signal to the flash light emitting unit 12 during shooting. Further, no power is supplied to the flash light emitting unit 12 for preparation of light emission.

  The CPU 51 determines whether or not there is a light detection signal input from the light detection unit 17 (step S106).

  When a light detection signal is input to the CPU 51 (Y in step S106), the CPU 51 controls the CCD unit 53 in synchronization with the input, performs photoelectric conversion with the imaging CCD, and obtains an image signal indicating the imaging target. . That is, in synchronization with the flash emission of the other camera device 30, the shutter of the digital camera device 20 is opened (that is, charge accumulation in the imaging CCD), and the imaging target is imaged (step S107). Here, the image is captured using the imaging parameters acquired in association with the determination of whether or not to emit light in step S103. That is, the optical member 52a is controlled so as to have an aperture corresponding to an appropriate exposure value, and the imaging CCD is controlled so as to have a charge time corresponding to an appropriate shutter speed. As described above, in the “synchronous shooting mode”, since the image is captured in synchronization with the light emission of the other camera device 30, the digital camera device 20 takes an image using the light emission of the other camera device 30. Therefore, even if the flash light emitting unit 12 is controlled to prohibit light emission in step S105, the shooting parameters corresponding to the case where the flash light emitting unit 12 emits light are employed.

  The CPU 51 records the image signal obtained in step S107 on the image recording medium 55a via the IF unit 55b of the image recording unit 55 (step S108), and if there is a predetermined end instruction (for example, power OFF). The process ends (Y in step S109). If not, the process returns to step S101 to wait for the next shutter button press.

  On the other hand, when the shooting mode is the “asynchronous shooting mode” (N in Step S104), the flash light emitting unit 12 is caused to emit light to capture an image (Step S110). If it is determined in step S103 that light emission is not necessary (N in step S103), an image is captured in step S107. The captured image is recorded on the image recording medium 55a in step S108.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to perform imaging in synchronization with the imaging of the other camera device 30. In addition, since it is possible to take an image using the light emitted by the other camera device 30, the image is taken without causing the digital camera device 20 flash emission unit 12 to emit light even in a shooting environment that requires flash emission. Therefore, the power required for the light emitting operation of the flash light emitting unit 12 is not consumed. As a result, battery consumption of the power supply unit 70 can be suppressed.

  Here, since the imaging timing of the other camera device 30 is detected by sensing the light emission accompanying the imaging of the other camera device 30, the imaging is performed only in synchronization with the imaging accompanied by the light emission by the other camera device 30. can do. That is, since there is no synchronization with imaging without light emission by the other camera device 30, there is no useless imaging operation. Furthermore, since it can be determined by mode selection whether to synchronize with the imaging of the other camera device 30, the power consumption depends on the status of the digital camera device 20 (for example, the remaining battery level of the power supply unit 70). Reduction can be achieved.

(Modification of Embodiment 1)
In the first embodiment described above, the light emission by the other camera device 30 is sensed, and imaging is performed in synchronization with the sensed timing. However, instead of the light sensing unit 17, a sound sensing unit is provided. The subject 40 may be imaged by sensing the shutter sound of the camera device. This sound sensing unit is provided with a sound sensor or the like, and may be configured to generate a predetermined signal in the same manner as the light sensing unit 17 when the shutter sound of the other camera device 30 is sensed. In addition, the sound detection unit records and analyzes the shutter sound at the time of shooting of the other camera device by a recording device or the like, and compares and collates with the predetermined sound data provided in advance, so that the other camera device designated in advance It may be determined whether the shutter sound from 30 or not.

(Embodiment 2)
In the first embodiment, the light sensing unit 17 senses the light emission by the other camera device 30 and uses this as the imaging timing of the other camera device 30. However, the shutter is opened after the light emission is detected (that is, the charge is charged). Therefore, when the light emission time is short, the amount of light has already decreased when the shutter is opened, and appropriate photographing may not be performed. In order to eliminate such an inconvenience, the light emission by the other camera device 30 may be detected based on the charge amount of the image sensor 53a. The digital camera device 20 having such a configuration and its imaging process will be described below as a second embodiment.

  The configuration of the digital camera device 20 according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the digital camera device 20 according to the first embodiment, but the light sensing unit 17 is omitted in order to sense light emission based on the charge amount of the image sensor 53a. May be.

  An imaging process performed by the digital camera device 20 according to the second embodiment will be described below with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG. 5 and a timing chart shown in FIG. In FIG. 6, (a) is a timing chart showing changes in the amount of light measured by the exposure measurement CCD and the distance measurement / photometry unit 54 in time series, and (b) in the same time series system. It is a timing chart which shows charge amount change in CCD for imaging.

  Similar to the imaging process according to the first embodiment, for example, the imaging process according to the present embodiment is started when the digital camera device 20 is in a state in which imaging is possible (for example, the power is turned on).

  When the processing is started, the CPU 51 of the digital camera device 20 determines whether or not the shutter button 16 has been pressed by inputting a pressing signal (step S201). If the shutter button 16 has been pressed (Y in step S201) The CPU 51 controls the distance measurement / photometry unit 54 to perform distance measurement / photometry with respect to the photographing target 40 (step S202).

  The CPU 51 determines whether flash light emission is necessary in the current shooting environment (step S203). In addition, the imaging parameter corresponding to the determination result and the measurement value is acquired from the storage unit 56.

  When it is determined in step S203 that “light emission is required” (Y in step S203), the CPU 51 determines whether or not the set shooting mode is “synchronous shooting mode” (step S204).

  If it is in the “synchronous shooting mode” (Y in step S204), the flash light emission unit 12 is controlled so as to prohibit the flash emission at the time of imaging (step S205).

  Next, the CPU 51 controls the driver circuit 53b of the CCD unit 53 to discharge the electric charge remaining in the imaging CCD of the imaging element 53a (step S206).

  When the discharge is completed, the CPU 51 sets the shutter opening time (that is, the shutter speed) indicated by the imaging parameter acquired in association with the processing in step S203 as the charging time, and controls the driver circuit 53b to perform imaging. Charge charging to the CCD is started (step S207). In addition, the timer circuit is operated to start measuring the elapsed time from the start of charging.

  The CPU 51 controls the driver circuit 53b and charges until the set charge time elapses. At this time, the CPU 51 determines whether or not the charge amount has exceeded a predetermined value within the charge time. Here, the predetermined value of the charge amount is a charge amount obtained when light emission such as flash is performed, and is set in advance and recorded as setting information in the storage unit 56. That is, as shown in FIG. 6, when the other camera device 30 emits light during imaging, the charge amount of the imaging element 53a becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined value as the amount of light increases. Therefore, by detecting a change in the charge amount of the image sensor 53a, light emission associated with imaging by the other camera device 30 is detected (step S208).

  If a charge amount equal to or greater than a predetermined value is detected within the charge time (Y in step S208), the CPU 51 extends the charge time by the shutter opening time from the detection time (step S209).

  The CPU 51 uses the charge accumulated within the extended charge time as an image signal. That is, the imaging target 40 is imaged in synchronization with the light emission associated with the imaging of the other camera device 30 (step S210). The CPU 51 records the obtained image signal on the image recording medium 55a (step S211). If there is a predetermined end instruction (for example, power OFF), the process ends (Y in step S212). If not, the process returns to step S201 to wait for the next shutter button press.

  On the other hand, if the charge amount does not exceed the predetermined value within the charge time (N in Step S208), the CPU 51 returns to Step S206 after the charge time has elapsed, discharges the remaining charge, and starts charging again (Step S208). S207). That is, when the light emission accompanying the imaging of the other camera device 30 is not detected, the shutter opening operation at the set shutter speed is repeated. In other words, the shutter open state at the shutter speed continues continuously. When light emission is detected, the amount of charge for the shutter opening time is acquired from that time, and an image signal is obtained. That is, imaging is performed at a set shutter speed in synchronization with the light emission of the other camera device 30.

  When the shooting mode is the “asynchronous shooting mode” (N in step S204), the flash light emitting unit 12 of the digital camera device 20 is caused to emit light to capture an image as in the first embodiment (step S213). If it is determined in step S203 that light emission is unnecessary (N in step S203), the image is captured in step S210. The captured image is recorded on the image recording medium 55a in step S211.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the charging of the image sensor 53a is continuously repeated every predetermined time (set shutter opening time), and during that time, the other camera devices 30 are captured. When the accompanying light emission is detected, an image signal based on the charge amount at the time of detection is obtained. That is, after the shutter button 16 is pressed, the charge state at the image sensor 53a is continued, and the charge amount at the time when the other camera device 30 emits light is obtained, so that it is synchronized with the imaging timing of the other camera device 30 without delay. And can shoot. That is, even when the light emission time by the other camera device 30 is short, a good imaging result can be obtained using the light emission.

  Further, since the image pickup device 53a is repeatedly discharged and charged every predetermined time, the charged state can be continued without exceeding the appropriate charge amount (that is, the appropriate exposure amount). In other words, it is substantially the same as repeatedly opening and closing the shutter at the set shutter speed, and the shutter does not remain open. Thereby, even if the charge state is continued, an appropriate image can be obtained without overexposure.

  In addition, as in the first embodiment, synchronous shooting synchronized with the imaging of the other camera device 30 can be performed. In addition, since it is possible to take an image using the light emitted by the other camera device 30, the image is taken without causing the digital camera device 20 flash emission unit 12 to emit light even in a shooting environment that requires flash emission. Therefore, the power required for the light emitting operation of the flash light emitting unit 12 is not consumed. As a result, battery consumption of the power supply unit 70 can be suppressed.

  Here, since the imaging timing of the other camera device 30 is detected by sensing the light emission accompanying the imaging of the other camera device 30, the imaging is performed only in synchronization with the imaging accompanied by the light emission by the other camera device 30. can do. That is, since there is no synchronization with imaging without light emission by the other camera device 30, there is no useless imaging operation. Furthermore, since it can be determined by mode selection whether to synchronize with the imaging of the other camera device 30, the power consumption depends on the status of the digital camera device 20 (for example, the remaining battery level of the power supply unit 70). Reduction can be achieved.

(Embodiment 3)
In the first embodiment, light emission is detected by the light sensing unit 17, and in the second embodiment, the imaging timing of the other camera device 30 is detected by detecting the light emission based on the change in the charge amount of the image sensor 53a. Is not limited to this. For example, you may detect using the histogram based on the input light obtained through the optical member 52a and the CCD unit 53. FIG. The digital camera device 20 and its imaging process in this case will be described below as a third embodiment.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a system configuration of the digital camera apparatus 20 according to the present embodiment. The configuration of the digital camera device 20 according to the present embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the digital camera device 20 according to the first embodiment. However, as shown in the drawing, instead of the light sensing unit 17 in the first embodiment, a CCD unit is used. A histogram relating to the brightness of the flash light is created from a predetermined digital signal converted by the AD conversion circuit provided in 53 or a predetermined digital signal measured by the image sensor 53a for exposure measurement of the CCD unit 53 and AD-converted. A histogram unit 58 is provided.

  In the digital camera device 20 according to the present embodiment, when the shutter button 16 is pressed, the CPU 51 causes the histogram unit 58 to input a predetermined digital image signal imaged by the CCD unit 53 and converted by the AD conversion circuit. Create a histogram about depth. The predetermined digital signal is measured by the exposure measuring image sensor 53 a and AD converted, or is captured by the predetermined memory element of the image sensor 53 a provided in the CCD unit 53 and AD converted. The predetermined digital image signal is input to the histogram unit 58 to create a histogram.

  When a predetermined digital signal is input to the histogram unit 58, the CPU 51 controls a switch or the like at predetermined time intervals, and is a signal measured and AD converted by the image sensor 53a for exposure measurement or an image sensor for imaging. A signal captured by the predetermined storage element 53a and AD-converted (a signal of a pixel of the imaging element 53a for imaging or a signal from a plurality of pixels) is acquired and input to the histogram unit 58.

  The CPU 51 analyzes data indicating the brightness of the shooting target image from the created histogram. This analysis may be performed by the histogram unit 58, and the analysis data may be output to the CPU 51. The CPU 51 determines the brightness of the image to be photographed for each histogram created by the histogram unit 58. That is, the CPU 51 determines whether or not flash light is emitted by a strobe of another camera device based on whether or not the analysis data indicating the brightness is equal to or higher than a predetermined light intensity threshold. Here, the CPU 51 may determine the brightness of the image to be captured in addition to the flash emission by the strobe of another camera device.

  The histogram unit 58 is a digital signal that is measured and AD converted by the image sensor 53a for exposure measurement, or all or part of a digital image signal that is imaged and AD converted by the image sensor 53a (predetermined in the image). A histogram relating to the brightness of the input image signal is created with respect to the pixels at the location.

  The CPU 51 analyzes the brightness of the input image signal from the histogram created by the histogram unit 58. The CPU 51 can determine whether or not the input image signal has a certain brightness or higher by comparing the analysis data with a predetermined threshold value. Further, this determination is made based on the image information charged in the image pickup device 53a for image pickup, for example, based on the area ratio of the bright color (white to halftone) and the dark color (black) in the target image. Also good.

  When the CPU 51 determines that the image to be photographed has reached a certain brightness or higher, the CPU 51 performs AD conversion on the output signal of the histogram unit 58 and inputs it to the image recording unit 55 to record the image to be photographed on the recording medium. .

  When the CPU 51 determines that the image to be photographed has not reached a certain brightness, the CPU 51 executes the above-described processing from histogram creation to analysis in the created histogram unit or a predetermined time unit.

  The CPU 51 can perform various image processing such as image compression as a predetermined digital image signal to be recorded in the image recording unit 55. When the CPU 51 determines that the image to be captured has reached a certain level of brightness or more, the CPU 51 controls the IF unit 55b of the image recording unit 55 to perform input control, time control, and the like, and a predetermined digital image signal is recorded on the recording medium. To record.

  FIG. 8 shows a block circuit of a flow from imaging to image recording by the digital camera device according to the present embodiment. Here, in FIG. 8, dotted lines and parenthesis numbers indicate input / output and order of signals between the CPU 51 and switches, circuits, and the like.

  In the figure, when the shutter button 16 is pressed, the CPU 51 receives a pressing signal ((1) in the figure). The CPU 51 controls the driver circuit 53b to discharge and clear the charge amount charged in the CCD unit 53 ((2) in the figure). The CPU 51 drives and controls the drive unit 52b for setting optical members such as the optical member 52a ((3) in the figure).

  The CPU 51 controls the driver circuit 53b to pick up an image of the optical image signal that has passed through the lens unit 52 from the object to be photographed 40 with the image sensor 53a provided in the CCD unit 53 ((4) in the figure). The analog image signal captured by the image sensor 53a is converted into a predetermined digital signal by the AD conversion circuit 53c.

  The CPU 51 is converted into a predetermined digital signal by the AD conversion circuit 53c, and receives the histogram data relating to the brightness created by the histogram unit 58 ((5) in the figure). The CPU 51 analyzes the input histogram data and determines whether or not the flash emission of another camera device 30 has been performed. This determination by the CPU 51 can determine that the flash emission of another camera device 30 has been performed when the histogram analysis data has a certain brightness.

  The CPU 51 controls the IF unit 55b in order to record the image of the subject 40 on the image recording medium 55a provided in the image recording unit 55 ((6) in the figure).

(Modification of Embodiment 3)
In the second embodiment described above, the CPU 51 monitors the histogram created by the histogram unit 58, and when it becomes a certain brightness, that is, when flash emission is performed by a strobe of another camera device, The photographing target 40 is photographed. The brightness threshold value may be the designated brightness value or the brightest brightness value, and the threshold value is set to an arbitrary brightness value. be able to.

  Further, the CPU 51 monitors the histogram created by the histogram unit 58 by confirming the saturation of a specific color, for example, black or white, from the created histogram by using a graph, thereby capturing the photographic subject image converted by the AD conversion circuit 53c. It is also possible to manage blackout or overexposure of digital image data.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, since the light emission of the other camera device 30 can be detected based on the histogram, the same effect as the second embodiment can be obtained.

(Embodiment 4)
In the first to third embodiments, since the imaging timing of the other camera device 30 is detected by detecting the light emission accompanying the imaging of the other camera device 30, the same imaging object is simultaneously detected in the same imaging space. Although it can be applied to shooting, synchronous shooting cannot be performed when it is desired to shoot different shooting targets at the same timing or in a shooting environment that does not require light emission. In order to eliminate such inconvenience, the imaging timing may be obtained directly from the other camera device 30 based on a signal transmitted from the other camera device 30 instead of detecting light emission or shutter sound. The digital camera device 20 and its imaging processing in such a case will be described below as a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 9 shows a system configuration of the digital camera apparatus according to the fourth embodiment.
As shown in the figure, the configuration of the digital camera device according to the present embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the digital camera device 20 according to the first embodiment, but a communication unit 64 that performs information communication with a device having a communication function. Is further provided.

  Here, the communication unit 64 is configured by a wireless communication device suitable for short-range communication such as IrDA, Bluetooth, or IEEE802.11. In the present embodiment, the communication unit 64 is configured in the digital camera device 20, but a communication unit TR having a similar configuration capable of communicating with the communication unit 64 is also configured in another camera device 30. .

  In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the digital camera device 20 captures an image in synchronization with the imaging timing of the other camera device 30. Here, the other camera device 30 is a transmission source (synchronization source) camera device, and the digital camera device 20 is a transmission destination (synchronization destination) camera device. An imaging process between the transmission source camera device and the transmission destination camera device will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG. Here, since the identification information of the synchronization destination camera device and the shooting parameters (exposure use mode) are set or read out as necessary, the processing flow in FIG. 10 is omitted.

  In FIG. 10, in the synchronization source camera device, the CPU 51 determines whether or not the user has pressed the shutter button 16 based on whether or not a predetermined signal (hereinafter referred to as a press signal) is input through the I / O unit 57. (Step S901). When determining that the shutter button 16 has been pressed (Y in step S901), the CPU 51 acquires the identification information of the synchronization source camera device 30 stored in the storage unit 56 (step S902). The CPU 51 acquires the exposure setting information of the synchronization destination camera apparatus that is stored in the storage unit 56 and that is the communication destination of itself and / or information communication (step S903).

  The CPU 51 of the synchronization source camera device 30 uses the identification information and exposure setting information acquired from the storage unit 56 as a signal indicating the timing of pressing the shutter button 16 of the synchronization source camera device 30, that is, the imaging timing (hereinafter “timing”). In addition, the communication unit 64 transmits the signal to the synchronization destination camera device (step S904). This transmission signal can be transmitted, for example, in a data transmission frequency band, transmission power, and a predetermined channel of a specific low-power radio station.

  When this transmission signal (see the dotted arrow in FIG. 10) is transmitted from the synchronization source camera device 30, the CPU 51 of the synchronization source camera device 30 determines whether or not there is a predetermined end instruction (for example, power OFF, etc.) (step). S905). If there is an end instruction (Y in step S905), the process is ended. If not (N in step S905), the process waits to determine whether the shutter button 16 has been pressed (return to step S901). If the CPU 51 of the synchronization source camera device 30 determines that the shutter button 16 has not been pressed (N in step S901), the CPU 51 waits for determination of pressing the shutter button 16 (returns to step S901).

  In the synchronization destination camera device that captures the subject 40 in synchronization with the synchronization source camera device, the CPU 51 determines whether the shutter button 16 has been pressed, as in the synchronization source camera device 30 (step S911). If it is determined that the shutter button 16 has not been pressed (N in step S911), the process waits for the determination that the shutter button 16 is pressed (return to step S911).

  When the CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera device determines that the shutter button 16 has been pressed (Y in step S911), a signal including a timing signal transmitted from the synchronization source camera device 30 (see the dotted arrow in FIG. 10) is a communication unit. In step S912, it is determined whether or not the message has been received. If the CPU 51 determines that the timing signal has not been received from the synchronization source camera device 30 (N in step S912), the CPU 51 waits to determine whether or not it has been received.

  When the CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera device determines that the timing signal has been received (Y in step S912), the identification information of the synchronization source camera device 30 included in the information signal received by the communication unit 64 is stored in the storage unit 56. The identification information indicating the synchronization source camera device 30 is compared. From this comparison result, the CPU 51 determines whether this information signal is a signal transmitted from the synchronization source camera device 30 (step S913). When it is determined that the information signal is not a signal transmitted from the synchronization source camera device 30 (identification information mismatch) (N in step S913), the process returns to step S912 to wait for reception of the timing signal.

  When the CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera device determines that the information signal is a signal transmitted from the synchronization source camera device 30 (identification information match) (Y in step S913), the shooting parameters at the time of shooting in the synchronization destination camera device That is, it is determined whether the exposure use mode is the exposure change mode, the exposure common mode, or no exposure use mode (the exposure value currently set in the synchronization destination camera device) (step S914).

  This mode is selected according to any one of the exposure change mode, the exposure common mode, and the no exposure use mode set by the user in the synchronization destination camera device. These modes are input by the user from the input unit 66 and stored in a predetermined storage capacity area of the storage unit 56. When a mode is input from the input unit 66, a mode setting menu is displayed on the display unit 65, and the user can select and set one of the modes.

  When the CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera device determines that the mode stored in the storage unit 56 is set to the exposure change mode, the exposure included in the signal from the synchronization source camera device 30 received by the communication unit 64. The drive unit 52b is driven and controlled to an exposure value different from the exposure value indicated by the setting information, and the optical member 52a and the like are set (step S915). The different exposure values are input from the input unit 66 by the user using the display unit 65 and stored in the exposure value information storage capacity portion of the storage unit 56. Further, a predetermined exposure value may be stored in the exposure value information storage capacity portion as the exposure reference value in the exposure change mode.

  The CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera device controls the driver circuit 53b and performs imaging of the imaging target 40 with the imaging device 53a of the CCD unit 53 with the set exposure value (step S917). The operation at the time of shooting can be the same as in the first embodiment. Further, the CPU 51 can control the presence or absence of flash emission by driving and controlling the flash light emitting unit 12 from the set synchronous / asynchronous shooting mode.

  When the CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera device determines that the exposure common mode is set, the same exposure value as the exposure value indicated by the exposure setting information included in the information signal from the synchronization source camera device 30 received by the communication unit 64 is obtained. The optical member 52a or the like is set by controlling the drive unit 52b or the like to a value (step S916). The CPU 51 shoots the photographic subject 40 with the set exposure value as in the exposure change mode (step S917).

  When the CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera device determines that the exposure use mode is not set, the exposure value indicated by the exposure setting information included in the information signal from the synchronization source camera device 30 received by the communication unit 64 is In contrast, the exposure value currently set is maintained. As in the operation in the exposure change mode, the CPU 51 captures an image to be captured with the currently set exposure value (step S917).

  The CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera device captures the subject 40 in synchronization with the synchronization source camera device 30, and then determines whether or not there is a predetermined end instruction (for example, power OFF) (step S918). If there is an end instruction (Y in step S918), the process is ended. If not (N in step S918), the process waits to determine whether the shutter button 16 has been pressed (return to step S911).

  According to the present embodiment, it is possible to set a synchronous shooting mode in which shooting is performed in synchronization with another camera device. This makes it possible to use a photo opportunity that is determined and operated by another person as necessary. Also, if the camera device is set to the synchronous shooting mode, it is possible to suppress the consumption of its own battery by preventing its own flash light from being emitted. Can be prevented. Furthermore, the shutter timing can be adjusted only to a desired camera device in the presence of a plurality of camera devices.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, if the shooting parameters (exposure information) are exchanged between the synchronization source and synchronization destination camera devices, and the exposure value is set by the reception side camera device, the setting of the other person is performed. It is possible to easily shoot using the exposure value obtained. Further, if the exposure value is set to a different exposure value at the receiving camera device, the same moment can be automatically captured by the plurality of camera devices with different exposure values. Furthermore, if a plurality of camera devices that have received a transmission signal including exposure information are set to different exposure values based on the exposure information, shooting at a decisive moment that is only once can be performed. Can reduce failure.

(Modification of Embodiment 4)
In the camera device described above, the identification information and the shooting parameters (exposure setting information) are transmitted from the synchronization source camera device 30 to the synchronization destination camera device together with the pressing signal. In addition to the transmission information, the synchronization destination Shooting information for setting the number of shooting times and shooting time of the camera device may be transmitted from the synchronization source camera device 30 in addition to the transmission information. In addition, this information communication may be performed using equipment for connecting to an existing network such as the Internet.

  According to the fourth embodiment, the imaging timing of another camera device 30 (synchronization source camera device 30) is notified to the digital camera device 20 (synchronization destination camera device 20) by wireless communication, and imaging is performed at this timing. Synchronous shooting without delay can be performed. In addition, since wireless communication is used, synchronized shooting can be performed for different shooting targets within a communicable range.

(Embodiment 5)
In the fourth embodiment, the synchronization is performed by communication between the synchronization source camera device 30 and the synchronization destination camera device. However, depending on the transfer time based on the communication method, there may be a delay in communication, and the synchronization cannot be performed appropriately. There is. In addition, when a communication method suitable for communication at a relatively short distance is used, it is not possible to perform synchronous shooting for different imaging targets at remote locations. A configuration for solving such a problem will be described below as a fifth embodiment.

  The configuration of the digital camera device (synchronization destination camera device) 20 and the other camera device (synchronization source camera device) 30 according to the present embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration according to the fourth embodiment, but corresponds to the communication unit 64. It is assumed that the communication unit TR of the other camera device 30 has a configuration for performing communication using a communication method suitable for long-distance communication. That is, for example, communication is performed using a mobile communication system such as a mobile phone or a PHS (Personal Handyphone System). In this case, the communication unit 64 performs communication using telephone communication (calling) by the mobile communication function or an electronic mail transmission / reception function.

  An imaging process between the transmission source (synchronization source) camera apparatus and the transmission destination (synchronization destination) camera apparatus in the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG. In FIG. 11, steps S001 to S003 and S011 are the same processes as steps S901 to S903 and S911 in FIG. 10, and the dotted line arrow in FIG. 11 is from the synchronization source camera device 30 to the synchronization destination camera device 20. Shows the flow of information communication.

  In this embodiment, the transfer time between the communication unit TR of the synchronization source camera device 30 and the communication unit 64 of the synchronization destination camera device 20 is measured in advance, and information indicating the transfer time is the transmission delay time. Is stored in the storage unit 56 as “transmission delay time information”. Here, the transfer time (transmission delay time) is measured by causing the communication unit TR of the synchronization source camera device 30 and the communication unit 64 of the synchronization destination camera device 20 to communicate with each other before shooting, for example, by using a common time stamp or the like. By using it, the time required for communication is measured.

  The CPU 51 of the synchronization source camera device 30 acquires its own identification information and exposure setting information from the storage unit 56 (steps S002 and S003), converts the acquired information into voice or character string information, and converts this conversion information. The communication unit 64 (telephone or mail terminal or the like) transmits it as a conversion information signal to the synchronization destination camera device or the like that is the other party (number or address) preset in the storage unit 56 by telephone or mail (step S004). That is, this conversion information signal is transmitted at the timing when the shutter button of the synchronization source camera device 30 is pressed, and is a timing signal indicating the imaging timing of the synchronization source camera device 30.

  The CPU 51 determines whether or not there is a predetermined end instruction (for example, power OFF) (step S005). If there is an end instruction (Y in step S005), the process ends. If not (N in step S005), the process returns to step S001 and waits for the shutter button 16 to be pressed.

  The CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera apparatus determines whether or not the shutter button 16 has been pressed (step S011). If it is determined that the shutter button 16 has not been pressed (N in step S011), it is determined to press the shutter button. (Return to step S011).

  When the CPU 51 determines that the shutter button 16 is pressed (Y in step S011), the CPU 51 controls the driver circuit 53b provided in the CCD unit 53 to start imaging on the imaging element 53a such as a CCD, that is, the imaging target 40 Are sequentially captured in time-series order by the image sensor 53a, and a plurality of images obtained are sequentially recorded (stored) in the image recording medium 55a of the image recording unit 55 (step S012). Here, the CPU 51 records the recording date and time information of a plurality of images obtained continuously in association with each image on the image recording medium 55a. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that a plurality of still images obtained by continuous imaging are continuously recorded (so-called continuous shooting). In addition, the recording system of the image obtained by continuous imaging is arbitrary, for example, you may record as a moving image.

  The CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera device determines whether or not the signal (conversion information signal) transmitted from the synchronization source camera device 30 has been received by the communication unit 64 (telephone or mail terminal or the like) (step S013). The determination by the CPU 51 is made by an output signal from the communication unit 64 or when the CPU 51 acquires information from the communication unit 64 at predetermined time intervals. When the communication unit 64 determines that the conversion information signal has not been received by the communication unit 64 by receiving a call signal in the case of a telephone call or receiving a mail incoming signal in the case of a mail or confirming the arrival of a mail (step N in S013 stands by to determine whether or not the shutter button 16 has been pressed (return to step S011).

  When the CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera device determines that the conversion information signal has been received by the communication unit 64 (Y in step S013), the number or address indicating the synchronization destination camera device set in this conversion information signal is its own. It is determined whether or not they are identical (step S014). When the CPU 51 determines that the own number or address stored in advance in the storage unit 56 and the conversion information signal received by the communication unit 64 are not the same number or address (N in step S014), the shutter button 16 It waits to determine whether or not has been pressed (return to step S011).

  When the CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera apparatus determines that the conversion information signal received by the communication unit 64 is the same as the number or address stored in advance in the storage unit 56 (Y in step S014), the CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera device is measured in advance and stored in the storage unit 56. Is acquired from the storage unit 56 (step S015).

  The CPU 51 of the synchronization destination camera device specifies a time point that is back by the transmission delay time (transfer time) indicated in the transmission delay time information acquired in step S015 from the time when the conversion information signal is received in step S013. The image recorded on the image recording medium 55a is specified and acquired (step S016). The CPU 51 deletes image information other than the specified image from the image recording medium 55a (step S017). After deleting the image information other than the identified image, the CPU 51 determines whether or not there is a predetermined end instruction (for example, power OFF) (step S018). If there is an end instruction (Y in step S018), the process ends. If not (N in step S018), the process returns to step S011 to wait for the shutter button 16 to be pressed.

  According to the present embodiment, the synchronization source and synchronization destination camera devices are set in a synchronous shooting relationship with each other, and the camera device on the other side (synchronization destination) from the camera device on the side where the shutter button 16 is pressed (synchronization source). If the synchronization destination camera device takes a picture of the subject 40 with a predetermined content when a call or email is sent to the device and a call or email is received from the synchronization source camera device, the remote source synchronization source camera device 30 can be used for shooting at a desired shooting timing.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, the time until the telephone or mail is transmitted to the other camera device is set in advance as a delay time according to the distance or time zone, and when the synchronous shooting mode is set, The past image frames for this delay time are stored while being sequentially updated. Then, when there is a phone call or mail instructing the shutter timing from the partner camera device, a long-distance communication phone that can cause a delay can be obtained by using an image frame stored in the past for the delay time as a photographed image. Even if the shutter timing is notified using e-mail or mail, the synchronization-destination camera device 20 can perform imaging in synchronization with the imaging timing of the synchronization-source camera device 30.

  Furthermore, if a signal used for synchronization between camera devices can be selected from a plurality of types of signals, shooting can be performed at an appropriate timing according to the situation.

  In the camera device described above, after the shutter button of the synchronization destination camera device is pressed and imaging is started, the conversion information signal is received from the synchronization source camera device 30, but the configuration of the synchronization destination camera device is the same. Not limited to this, the conversion information signal may be received before the shutter button is pressed to perform shooting. In the above-described camera device, information communication is performed using a telephone or e-mail. However, information is transmitted between at least two synchronization source and synchronization destination camera devices by connecting to a facsimile or other information communication line. An antenna, a terminal, and the like may be provided so that transmission and reception can be performed.

  In each of the above embodiments, the digital camera device 20 having a configuration for detecting the imaging timing of the other camera device 30 has been described. However, the function of detecting the imaging timing of the other camera (imaging device) is used for general purposes. It may be provided as a module externally connected to various cameras. For example, the configuration of the light sensing unit 17 shown in the first embodiment, and a control unit (for example, composed of a CPU or the like) that instructs the connected digital camera to perform imaging in response to light emission detection by the light sensing unit. By providing the provided module, a camera that does not include the light sensing unit 17 can function as the digital camera device 20 described in the first embodiment. In other words, such a module can be provided as a synchronous imaging support device that enables simple synchronous imaging using a general-purpose camera.

  Similarly, the communication unit 64 shown in the fourth and fifth embodiments and the communication unit TR configured in the other camera device 30 can be provided as an external device. In this case, for example, a general-purpose device composed of a CPU and a module that includes a detection unit that acquires the imaging timing and imaging parameters of the synchronization source camera device 30 and a communication unit that transmits a timing signal indicating the imaging timing. By connecting to the camera, the camera can function as the synchronization source camera device 30. In addition, with the same configuration, a detection unit that receives a timing signal transmitted from such a synchronization source camera and detects an imaging timing, and an image of the connected general-purpose camera in synchronization with the detected imaging timing By connecting a device in which the imaging control unit to be modularized is connected to a general-purpose camera, the camera can function as the synchronization destination camera device 20. In other words, these modules can be provided as a synchronous imaging support device that enables easy synchronous imaging using a plurality of general-purpose cameras.

  In each of the above embodiments, the case where the present invention is applied to a digital camera including a light emitting device such as a strobe is illustrated, but the photographing apparatus to which the present invention is applicable is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention may be applied to a film camera (for example, a 35 mm format camera, an APS camera, a disposable camera, etc.) that is photographed by exposing a silver salt film or the like. Alternatively, the present invention may be applied to an information processing apparatus such as a computer or a portable terminal to which a CCD image sensor is connected. In addition, the present invention may be applied to a photographing apparatus that does not include a light emitting device. In this case, by performing the above-described “synchronous shooting mode”, it is possible to perform shooting in a dark place by using the light emission of the other camera device 30 even if the light emitting device is not provided. In addition, since no light emitting device is provided, no power is required to cause the light emitting device to emit light.

  Furthermore, the above-described processes shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 10, and 11 are realized by a program, and are executed by a computer that controls the photographing apparatus, thereby allowing various camera apparatuses or computers having camera functions to be executed. May be made to function as an imaging device similar to the digital camera device 20 shown in the above embodiments.

  As described above, according to the present invention, synchronized shooting can be easily realized with a simple configuration. Also, when shooting in a dark place that requires light emission, such as a flash, by capturing in synchronization with the imaging of another camera, the light emitting device emits light using the light emission associated with the imaging of the other camera. Without losing power and reducing power consumption.

It is a figure which shows the system configuration | structure of the digital camera apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the usage example of the digital camera apparatus concerning Embodiment 1 of this invention. FIG. 2 is a block circuit diagram showing a flow from imaging to image recording by the digital camera device shown in FIG. 1. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the imaging process concerning Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the imaging process concerning Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a timing chart for demonstrating the imaging process which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the system configuration | structure of the digital camera apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the usage example of the digital camera apparatus concerning Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the system configuration | structure of the digital camera apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the imaging process concerning Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the imaging process concerning Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the flash imaging | photography operation | movement in the conventional digital camera apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 51 ... CPU, 52 ... Lens unit, 53 ... CCD unit, 55 ... Image recording unit, 56 ... Storage part, 57 ... I / O part, 65 ... Display part, 66 ... Input part, 12 ... Flash light emission part, 16 ... Shutter button, 17 ... light sensing unit

Claims (16)

Detecting means for detecting imaging timing by another imaging device;
Imaging means for imaging in synchronization with imaging timing by the other imaging device detected by the detection means,
An imaging apparatus characterized by that. The detecting means further includes a receiving means for receiving a timing signal indicating a photographing timing by the other imaging device from the other imaging device,
Detecting the imaging timing of the other imaging device based on the reception of the signal by the receiving means;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 1. The timing signal includes identification information indicating the predetermined other imaging device,
The imaging unit performs imaging when the receiving unit receives a timing signal including predetermined identification information.
The imaging apparatus according to claim 2. The timing signal includes shooting parameters of the other imaging device,
The image pickup means picks up an image based on a shooting parameter included in a timing signal received by the receiving means;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein The imaging means further comprises continuous imaging means for acquiring an image according to the passage of time by continuous imaging,
The receiving means further comprises storage means for previously storing information indicating a transfer time of the timing signal,
The imaging unit acquires an image corresponding to a time point that is backed by the transfer time from a time point when the receiving unit receives the timing signal, from an image acquired by the continuous imaging unit.
The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the imaging apparatus is characterized in that The detection means detects the imaging timing of the other imaging device by sensing light emission from the other imaging device,
The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein The imaging device is to capture an image using an imaging element that accumulates electric charges converted by photoelectric conversion,
The detection means detects light emission by the other imaging device based on a change in a charge accumulation amount of the imaging element;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 6. An image sensor control means for controlling the image sensor;
The image sensor control means repeats the charge accumulation start to the image sensor and the discharge of the accumulated charge every predetermined time,
The detection unit detects imaging accompanied by light emission by the other imaging device by detecting whether or not the amount of accumulated charge has exceeded a predetermined value between the start of charge accumulation and the discharge. ,
The imaging apparatus according to claim 7. The image sensor control means performs charge accumulation in the image sensor for the predetermined time from the time when the detection means detects that the accumulated charge amount is equal to or greater than a predetermined value,
The imaging means captures an image by acquiring an image signal based on the accumulated charge,
The imaging apparatus according to claim 8. A histogram acquisition means for acquiring a histogram based on the input light;
The detection unit detects light emission by the other imaging device based on a change in the histogram acquired by the histogram acquisition unit;
The image pickup apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the image pickup apparatus is an image pickup apparatus. The imaging device further includes a light emitting device that emits light during imaging,
The imaging unit captures an image without driving the light emitting device in synchronization with an imaging timing of another imaging device detected by the detection unit.
The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image pickup apparatus is an image pickup apparatus. Mode selection means for allowing the user to select one of a synchronous mode for photographing in synchronization with the photographing timing of the other imaging device and an asynchronous mode for photographing without synchronizing with the photographing timing of the other imaging device;
A light emission control means for prohibiting the light emission operation of the light emitting device when the synchronous mode is selected by the mode selection means;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 11. A detection unit for detecting the imaging timing of the imaging device of the synchronization source;
An imaging control unit that causes the synchronization destination imaging device to capture images at the imaging timing detected by the detection unit;
Synchronous photographing support device comprising: The detection unit further includes a transmission unit that acquires and transmits a timing signal indicating an imaging timing of the imaging device from the synchronization source imaging device,
The imaging control unit further includes a receiving unit that receives the timing signal transmitted by the transmitting unit,
The imaging control unit causes the synchronization destination imaging device to perform imaging in synchronization with reception of the timing signal by the reception unit.
The synchronous photographing support apparatus according to claim 13, wherein In the computer that controls the imaging device,
A detection step of detecting imaging timing by another imaging device;
An imaging step of executing an imaging operation of the imaging apparatus in synchronization with the detected imaging timing of the other imaging apparatus;
A program characterized by having executed. The imaging device includes a light emitting device,
The imaging step executes an imaging operation without driving the light emitting device in synchronization with the imaging timing of the other imaging device.
The program according to claim 15.

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