JP2005277945A - Method, apparatus, system and program for image processing - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method, an apparatus, a system and a program for image processing capable of performing optimal image inspection depending on a photographing environment. <P>SOLUTION: A digital camera 2 generates original image data, or CCD-RAW data, and image data of a reduced size, so as to transmit to camera control PC 3. In the camera control PC 3, a simple inspection mode or a detailed inspection mode can be selected depending on the photographing environment. When the simple inspection mode is selected, order acceptance and image inspection are performed using the reduced size image data. When the detailed inspection mode is selected, in the camera control PC 3, curtailed original image data are generated from the original image data, and the order acceptance and the image inspection are performed using the curtailed original image data. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing method, an image processing apparatus, an image processing system, and an image processing for performing various image processing while reproducing and displaying a digital image based on original image data sent from a photographing apparatus such as a digital camera. Regarding the program.

  Some digital cameras used for business use output original image data (CCD-RAW data) during shooting. Original image data is unprocessed data output from an imaging device such as a CCD or CMOS incorporated in a digital camera, and is in JPEG (Joint Photographic Coding Expert Group) format output from a digital camera for general users. Compared to image data, the data size is several times larger, but white balance correction and exposure correction can be performed without dropping color information after shooting, so high-quality images are required. Often used for professional photography.

  As it is, the original image data cannot be displayed on the screen of a personal computer (PC) or used for printing an image. Therefore, the original image data output from the digital camera is input to the PC, and can be displayed and printed by the image conversion program installed in the PC, for example, display image data in TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) format. Then, image conversion processing (generally called development processing) is performed. In this image conversion process, image correction is performed based on conversion parameters such as white balance correction and exposure correction and adjustment parameters such as color tone, gradation, and contrast.

  Some digital cameras that output original image data output reduced JPEG image data (hereinafter referred to as reduced image data) simultaneously with the original image data (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1).

  For example, in a photo studio, after taking a picture of a customer in a studio using a digital camera that outputs the above original image data, work such as order reception, image verification and image conversion processing, print processing, and delivery is performed. ing.

  In order reception, the original image data obtained by photographing is subjected to image conversion processing, the converted display image data is displayed on the monitor of the ordering PC and viewed by the customer, and the customer selects the image to be printed. Work. In this order reception, in addition to the image to be printed, the number of prints, and the print size, requests for image adjustment such as the trimming range, the orientation of the image, the color tone of the image, and the brightness can be received. After the order is completed, order data is created from the customer information and the order contents.

  In the image verification and image conversion processing, in the verification PC, the original image data is converted into display image data based on the conversion parameter and the adjustment parameter, and the conversion parameter and the adjustment parameter are changed while observing the display image data. This is an operation to change and form a higher quality image. The original image data is subjected to image conversion processing every time the conversion parameter and the adjustment parameter are changed, and new display image data is generated. The operator observes the newly generated display image data, and repeats the parameter change and the image conversion process until a satisfactory image is obtained. In the printing process, the display image data for which the verification work has been completed is printed based on the order data. Upon delivery, the completed print photo is given to the customer.

“EOS-1Ds”, [online], Canon Inc., [March 9, 2004 search], Internet <URL: http://cweb.canon.jp/camera/eosd/1ds/catalog/index03.html >

  Since the original image data is composed of pixel data represented by, for example, 12-bit or 16-bit gradation values for each color, the data size is very large and a long time is required for image conversion processing. For this reason, if image conversion processing of a plurality of original image data is performed after completion of photographing, it is not possible to immediately accept an order and it is necessary to have a customer wait.

  Further, in the image verification and image conversion processing, it may take time to perform image conversion processing a plurality of times for one original image data. Furthermore, since the shooting conditions of the studio of the photo studio are stable, the verification work of the original image data shot in the same studio has almost the same contents. However, the conventional image verification is inefficient because an operator has to perform verification for each image data.

  Although it is possible to accept orders and perform image verification using reduced image data, adjustment processing at a level that cannot be supported by image adjustment for reduced image data is correction of white balance, exposure, etc. for the original image data. Must be done. In such a case, after performing the image verification using the reduced image data, it takes twice time to read out the original image data and perform the image verification.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an image processing method, apparatus, system, and program capable of performing an optimal image test according to a photographing environment.

  The image processing method of the present invention switches between a first mode in which image verification is performed using reduced image data and a second mode in which image verification is performed using thinned original image data, depending on the shooting environment. I did it. In the first mode, the image conversion process is performed based on the first conversion parameter set in advance and the first adjustment parameter obtained by the image verification. In the second mode, the image verification is performed. The image conversion process is performed based on the obtained second conversion parameter and second adjustment parameter.

  In another image processing method, if original image data to be thinned is generated in advance and image verification is performed using the reduced image data, and image verification cannot be performed using the reduced image data, the thinned original image data The image test was carried out.

  The image processing apparatus of the present invention inputs a mode switching means for switching a mode between the first mode and the second mode, the original image data and the reduced image data in the first mode, An image input means for inputting original image data in the second mode; a thinned original image data generating means for generating thinned original image data by thinning the original image data at a fixed rate in the second mode; Image verification means for performing image verification on the reduced image data in the mode, and performing image verification on the thinned original image data in the second mode, and a first conversion preset in the first mode The image conversion process is performed on the original image data based on the parameter and the first adjustment parameter generated by the image verification means, and the original image data is generated by the image verification means in the second mode. Second conversion parameters, and a display-image data generating means for generating original image data image data for display by performing image conversion processing based on the second adjustment parameter.

  Another image processing apparatus includes an image input unit that inputs original image data and reduced image data, a thinned original image data generation unit that generates original thinned image data by thinning the original image data at a fixed rate, and a reduced image When the image verification is performed on the data and the image verification cannot be performed on the reduced image data, the image verification means for performing the image verification on the thinned original image data and the image verification on the reduced image data The image conversion processing is performed on the original image data based on the first conversion parameter set in advance and the first adjustment parameter generated by the image verification means, and the image verification is performed on the thinned original image data. In this case, the image conversion process is performed on the original image data based on the second conversion parameter generated by the image verification means and the second adjustment parameter. And a display-image data generating means for generating image data for display by performing.

  The image processing system according to the present invention includes a photographing device that generates original image data of a photographed subject and reduced image data obtained by reducing the original image data, and the above-described image processing device. Further, in order to realize each means constituting the image processing apparatus, the image processing apparatus is configured by an image processing program that causes a computer apparatus to function.

  According to the present invention, the image verification is performed using the reduced image data or the thinned-out original image data that does not require time for the image conversion process. Therefore, the image verification can be performed immediately after the photographing is completed. Also, whether to use the reduced image data or the thinned original image data can be switched appropriately according to the shooting environment, so after the image verification with the reduced image data, the image verification is performed again using the thinned original image data. There is no need to do twice.

  In a normal case, image verification is performed with reduced image data, and when sufficient image correction or the like cannot be performed with the reduced image data, the thinned original image data generated in advance after shooting is completed. It can also be used for image verification. According to this, since it is not necessary to wait for the completion of the image conversion process of the thinned original image data, the image verification work is not prolonged.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image processing system embodying the present invention. This image processing system is used in, for example, a photo studio. The configuration is for controlling the digital camera 2 used for photographing a customer in the studio and controlling the digital camera 2 and storing image data generated by the digital camera 2 and transferring it to another PC. Using the PC 3 and the image data transferred from the camera control PC 3, an order PC 4 for receiving a print order from a customer, and an image verification for verifying that the received image data has higher image quality The PC 5 includes an image conversion PC 6 that generates image data for printing, and a printer 7 that creates a print based on the image data for printing.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the digital camera 2 and the camera control PC 3. Each unit of the digital camera 2 is connected to each other via the data bus 10 and its operation is controlled by the CPU 11 as a whole. A program for operating the digital camera 2 is recorded in the ROM 12. The imaging unit 14 includes a known photographic lens, a CCD, and the like, and generates digital image data by photoelectrically converting an optical image of a subject.

  Shooting conditions such as aperture and shutter speed are set by operating various setting buttons provided on the operation unit 18 while confirming an operation menu displayed on the LCD 17. The LCD 17 is used as a viewfinder in the shooting mode, and is used for playback display of image data in the playback mode.

  The image data output from the imaging unit 14 is buffered in the RAM 13. This image data is original image data (CCD-RAW data) that has not been subjected to image correction such as white balance processing, and a large number of pixel data having gradation values represented by 12 bits or 16 bits for each color. Consists of

  The image processing circuit 21 performs white balance (WB) processing, gradation conversion processing, and the like on the original image data under conditions preset for each model, and outputs image-corrected image data. The compression / decompression processing circuit 22 compresses the image data after image correction in accordance with a format defined by JPEG to generate JPEG image data.

  The digital camera 2 can select the type of image data to be output. For example, only original image data can be output, or only JPEG image data can be output. Also, original image data and reduced image data (JPEG data, bitmap data, etc.) can be output simultaneously. When these two types of image data are output simultaneously, the original image data is converted into reduced image data, and further thinned out as necessary, for example, about 1280 × 960 pixels.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the original image data and the reduced image data are stored in an image folder 27 formed in the recording medium 26 by the media controller 25. The same file names with different extensions are assigned to the original image data and the reduced image data output simultaneously, for example, “DSC0001.raf” and “DSC0001.jpg”. Therefore, by confirming the file name, the relationship can be understood.

  The digital camera 2 and the camera control PC 3 are connected by a communication cable 30 between their input / output I / Fs 28 and 29. With this connection, original image data and reduced image data, and shooting control data generated when shooting conditions of the digital camera 2 are set by the camera control PC 3 are transmitted and received between the digital camera 2 and the camera control PC 3. . As the input / output I / Fs 28 and 29, for example, those conforming to USB (Universal Serial Bus) or IEEE1394 are used. Note that, instead of the communication cable 30, data communication may be performed using wireless communication means.

  The original image data and the reduced image data recorded in the recording medium 26 are transmitted from the digital camera 2 to the camera control PC 3 by an operation on the digital camera 2 or the camera control PC 3. Therefore, even when the recording capacity of the recording medium 26 of the digital camera 2 is small, continuous shooting can be performed. As will be described in detail later, the original image data and the reduced image data generated by the digital camera 2 are not recorded on the recording medium 26 according to the settings of the camera control program installed in the camera control PC 3, and the camera control is performed. It can also be transferred directly to the PC 3.

  For example, a commercially available personal computer is used for the camera control PC 3, and an external storage device 33 formed of a hard disk drive or the like includes a digital camera together with an operating system (OS) that controls the operation of the camera control PC 3. A camera control program and a thinned original image generation program used for the control 2 are installed.

  When the camera control PC 3 is powered on, the OS stored in the external storage device 33 is loaded into the RAM 36 and the camera control PC 3 is activated. Further, when the camera control program is executed by operating the keyboard 37 or the mouse 38, the camera control program is similarly loaded into the RAM 36 and executed. The thinned original image data generation program is activated in conjunction with the camera control program.

  The camera control PC 3 and the camera control program reproduce and display the image of the reduced image data transmitted from the digital camera 2 on the monitor 41, and respond to operation signals from input devices such as the keyboard 37 and the mouse 38, Various settings and control of the digital camera 2 are performed. The units of the camera control PC 3 are connected to each other via a data bus 42, and the operation of the CPU 43 is generally controlled by the CPU 43. Original image data and reduced image data sent from the digital camera 2 are recorded in the external storage device 33 via the input / output I / F 29 and the data bus 42.

  For example, the camera control program controls the digital camera 2 with the camera control PC 3 to set the shooting conditions, release the shutter, etc., and store the image data in the camera control PC 3. Standard camera control mode for setting shooting conditions, shutter release, etc., and storing image data in the recording medium 26, setting of shooting conditions, shutter release, etc. with the digital camera 2, and storage of image data in the PC 3 for camera control It has an extended camera control mode.

  The thinned-out original image data generation program generates thinned-out original image data by thinning out pixel signals at predetermined intervals from the pixel signals of the original image data at a certain rate. As shown in FIG. 4, the original image data and the reduced image are generated. The data is stored in the image folder 44 of the external storage device 33 together with the data. The file name of the thinned original image data is, for example, “DSC0001-1.raf” or the like for the file name “DSC0001.raf” of the original image data so that the relation with the original image data that is the generation source can be understood. It is named as follows.

  The camera control PC 3 is connected to a local area network (LAN) by a built-in network adapter 45. As the order PC 4, the image verification PC 5, and the image conversion PC 6, a commercially available personal computer is used similarly to the camera control PC 3, and is also connected to the LAN by a network adapter.

  The camera control program uses a simple verification mode, which is a first mode for using reduced image data, and a second mode for using original thinned-out image data in post-processing such as order reception, image verification, and image conversion performed after shooting. It has a function as a mode switching means for selecting a detailed verification mode which is a mode.

  The simple verification mode is used when shooting in a shooting environment with little change such as in a studio of a photo studio, and is a verification mode in which only simple image adjustment such as color balance, brightness, and contrast can be performed. In addition, the detailed verification mode is used when the shooting environment in the studio changes greatly due to changes in the number of subjects and lighting, and when using the above-mentioned image adjustment items used when shooting in a simple studio, etc. This is a test mode that can also perform image correction such as white balance and exposure correction.

  When the simple verification mode is selected, the camera control program transmits the reduced image data to the order PC 4 and the image verification PC 5, and transmits the original image data to the image conversion PC 6. When the detailed verification mode is selected, the thinned original image data is transmitted to the ordering PC 4 and the image verification PC 5, and the original image data is transmitted to the image conversion PC 6. The above-described thinned-out original image data generation program is operated only when the detailed verification mode is selected. Note that the configuration of each of the PCs 4 to 6 is substantially the same as that of the camera control PC 3, and therefore the description of the configuration is omitted below.

  The external storage device of the ordering PC 4 is installed with an ordering program for browsing a photographed image and selecting an order for printing together with a customer. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, this order program is selected on the print order screen 48 that displays a list of images of a plurality of image data input from the camera control PC 3 on the monitor and the print order screen 48. The image adjustment screen 50 for enlarging the displayed image is switched and displayed. Operations on these screens are performed using a mouse or a keyboard.

  Corresponding to the simple verification mode and detailed verification mode of the camera control program, the ordering program is a reduced image order mode that accepts orders using reduced image data, and a thinning that accepts orders using thinned original image data. And an image order mode. Switching between these modes is automatically performed by identifying the type of image data transmitted from the camera control PC 3, that is, reduced image data or thinned original image data.

  When the reduced image data is transmitted from the camera control PC 3, the order program reproduces and displays the image of the reduced image data on the print order screen 48. When the original thinned-out image data is transmitted, the original thinned-out image data is subjected to image conversion processing using predetermined initial parameters, for example, a Tiff format having a gradation value of 16 bits for each color. Thinning display image data is generated. The thinning display image data is reproduced and displayed on the print order screen 48. The file name of the thinning-out display image data is, for example, “DSC0001-1” with respect to the file name “DSC0001-1.raf” of the thinning-out original image data so that the relationship with the thinning-out original image data that is the generation source can be understood. .Tif "etc.

  Hereinafter, the process of performing image conversion on the thinned original image data and generating the thinned display image data is referred to as “temporary image conversion process”. Further, the process of performing image conversion on the original image data and outputting it as display image data is referred to as “main image conversion process”.

  One of the print order screen 48 and the image adjustment screen 50 is selectively displayed on the monitor by a switching operation. This switching operation switches from the print order screen 48 to the image adjustment screen 50 when the “image adjustment” button 53 arranged on the upper right of the print order screen 48 is clicked with the mouse. Similarly, when the “print order” button 54 arranged on the upper right of the image adjustment screen 50 is clicked with the mouse, the image adjustment screen 50 is switched to the print order screen 48.

  The print order screen 48 includes a basic data display frame 57, an image display frame 58, a print designation frame 59, and a print fee display frame 60. The basic data display frame 57 displays the reception date and time, the print finish date and the like, together with the customer name and contact information, the user ID number and the reception number. The customer's name, contact information, user ID number, etc. are newly entered for the first customer, and read from the customer database stored in the ordering PC 4 for customers who have used in the past. It is.

  The image display frame 58 displays a plurality of reduced image data input from the camera control PC 3 or images 63 to 66 of thinning display image data. File name display parts 63a to 66a for displaying the file names before the extension of the image data of the images are provided above the images 63 to 66, respectively. Also, at the bottom of each image 63 to 66, there are provided number display sections 63b to 66b and size display sections 63c to 66c for displaying the number of prints ordered and the print size.

  When a print order is made for each image, the image, for example, image 65, is clicked and selected with the mouse. As a result, the density of the frame around the selected image 65 is displayed dark, so that the currently selected image can be easily identified. Note that by operating a scroll bar 69 disposed between the image display frame 58 and the print designation frame 59, the image display frame 58 can be scroll-displayed, and four or more images can be viewed. .

  In the print designation frame 59, for example, a size selection area 59a for selecting a print size from all sheets to eight cuts and a number selection area 59b for specifying the number of prints are provided. In the upper part, a file name display part 59c for displaying the file name of the currently selected image is provided. The print fee display frame 60 displays a list of designated print sizes and the number of prints, and a print fee automatically calculated according to the list.

  When a predetermined image is double-clicked in the image display frame 58 or an image is selected in the image display frame 58 and the “image adjustment” button 53 is clicked, an image adjustment screen 50 shown in FIG. 6 is displayed. The image adjustment screen 50 includes an enlarged display frame 72 in which a selected image, for example, an image 65 is enlarged, a title bar 73 that displays the file name of the image displayed in the enlarged display frame 72, and an image adjustment frame 74. It consists of.

  The image adjustment frame 74 is provided with a large number of adjustment units 77a to 77e for changing various adjustment items such as color balance, brightness, and contrast. The values of the adjustment units 77a to 77e can be adjusted by directly inputting numerical values into the input box 78 or by moving the indicator 79 left and right in the drawing. The ordering program performs image adjustment on the reduced image data of the image 65 or the thinning display image data based on the image adjustment performed by the adjusting units 77a to 77e, and the reduced image data of the image adjusted The image 65 is reproduced and displayed on the enlarged display unit 72. Thereby, image adjustment can be performed while confirming the adjustment result together with the customer.

  A trimming frame 82 is displayed on the image 65 of the enlarged display portion 72. The print range can be specified by changing the size of the trimming frame 82 with the mouse. The aspect ratio of the trimming frame 82 may be changed according to the aspect ratio of the print size selected on the print order screen 48 described above, or may be changed freely.

  At the end of the order by the customer, an end button 85 arranged at the bottom of the print order screen 48 is clicked. Then, as shown in FIG. 7, order data 88 is generated from the customer information, the file name of the ordered image, the number of prints and the print size of each image. In addition, adjustment data 89 is generated from image adjustment information and trimming information performed on each image. These order data 88 and adjustment data 89 are stored in a newly created order folder 90 and transmitted to the image verification PC 5. The order data 88 is also used for updating the customer database stored in the ordering PC 4.

  Further, the order data 88 is also transmitted to the camera control PC 3. The camera control PC 3 that has received the order data 88 transmits only the original image data corresponding to the print-designated image to the image conversion PC 6. As a result, the amount of LAN data transfer in the photo hall is reduced, so that the processing load on each PC for data transfer can be reduced. The original image data that has not been ordered may be deleted from the camera control PC 3 at this time.

  A test program for testing reduced image data input from the camera control PC 3 is installed in the external storage device of the image test PC 5. This test program is used for adjustment of conversion parameters used for image conversion processing for converting original image data into display image data and adjustment parameters used for image adjustment processing of display image data.

  The image verification program corresponds to the simple verification mode and detailed verification mode of the camera control program, and the reduced image verification mode that performs image verification using the reduced image data, and the image verification using the thinned original image data. And a thinned image verification mode. Switching between these modes is automatically performed by identifying the type of image data transmitted from the camera control PC 3, that is, reduced image data or thinned original image data.

  When the reduced image data is transmitted from the camera control PC 3, the image verification program displays an image of the reduced image data on the monitor as a minimum so that the image verification can be performed. In addition, when the thinned original image data is transmitted, provisional image conversion processing is performed on the thinned original image data, and for example, Tiff format thinned display image data having a gradation value of 16 bits for each color is generated. To do. Then, image verification can be performed using the thinning display image data.

  As shown in FIG. 8, on the operation screen 92 of the image verification program displayed on the monitor, there are a plurality of verification target image display areas 94 for displaying the verification target reduced image data or the image 93 of the thinning display image data. A reduced image display area 95 for displaying the reduced images side by side and a parameter adjustment area 96 are provided. On the upper side of the test target image display area 94, a title bar 97 on which the title (file name) of the test target image 93 is displayed is displayed.

  The image verification program set in the reduced image verification mode performs image adjustment processing on the reduced image data input from the camera control PC 3 based on the adjustment data 89 and the preset standard adjustment parameter 98. Apply. As a result, the reduced image data used for the verification reflects the customer's opinion, so that the verification operation that satisfies the customer can be performed. The reduced image data subjected to the image adjustment processing is displayed in the reduced image display area 95 as reduced images 100 to 103. The image selected in the reduced image display area 95 is displayed in the test object image display area 94 as the test object image 93.

  In the example shown in the figure, four frames of reduced images are displayed in the reduced image display area 95, but the number of frames to be displayed simultaneously can be increased or decreased as appropriate. Further, the selection cursor 104 is highlighted around the reduced image 102 corresponding to the test target image 93, and the test target image 93 and the reduced image 102 are associated with each other. On the right side of the reduced image display area 95, a scroll bar 105 that can be scrolled up and down is provided. When there are five or more reduced images, the fifth and subsequent reduced images can be displayed by sliding the scroll bar 105 up and down.

  Among the plurality of reduced images 100 to 103 displayed in the reduced image display area 95, those for which the verification operation has not been completed (reduced images 102 and 103 for the two frames on the right side in the example in the figure) are displayed in black and white. Yes. In contrast, for a reduced image that has been verified (for example, the second reduced image 101 from the left end) or a reduced image that has not been ordered for printing (for example, the leftmost reduced image 100), full color Is displayed.

  The parameter adjustment area 96 is provided with two types of change screens of “image adjustment” for changing the standard adjustment parameter 98 and “conversion condition” for changing the conversion parameter. By selecting, it is possible to switch to each change screen. When the “image adjustment” tab is selected, an image adjustment screen 109 is displayed in the parameter adjustment area 96.

  The image adjustment screen 109 is provided with a large number of adjustment units 110a to 110e that change standard adjustment parameters 98 such as color balance, brightness, and contrast. The values of the adjusting units 110a to 110e are adjusted by directly inputting numerical values in the input box 111 or by moving the indicator 112 to the left and right in the figure, as in the ordering program of the ordering PC 4. be able to. When each of the adjustment units 110a to 110e is adjusted, the standard adjustment parameter 98 is changed. Based on the changed standard adjustment parameter 98, image adjustment processing is performed on the reduced image data corresponding to the test target image 93. Is done. As a result, the test target image 93 whose image has been adjusted is always displayed in the test target image display area 94.

  Various adjustments are made while confirming the test target image 93, and after the adjustment contents are determined, the “OK” button 115 is operated. Then, a change adjustment parameter representing the adjustment contents made by this verification work is generated. As shown in FIG. 7, the change adjustment parameter 117 is stored in the order folder 90 as file data. The order folder 90 is transmitted to the image conversion PC 6 after the verification of all print designated images is completed.

  Further, when the image verification program is set to the thinned image verification mode, the temporary image conversion process is performed on the thinned original image data based on the preset standard conversion parameter 118, and the thinned display image data is generated. The This thinning display image data is displayed in the reduced image display area 95 of the operation screen 92 of the image verification program. The image selected in the reduced image display area 95 is displayed in the test object image display area 94 as the test object image 93.

  In the thinned image verification mode, first, the standard conversion parameters 118 used during the temporary image conversion process are adjusted. In FIG. 8, when the “conversion condition” tab 125 is selected, a conversion condition change screen 126 is displayed as shown in FIG. On the conversion condition change screen 126, for example, a tone curve correction unit 127 that corrects a tone curve, a white balance correction unit 128 that corrects a light source and a color temperature, an exposure correction box 129, and an sensitization correction box 130 are displayed. By operating, the standard conversion parameter 118 can be changed.

  When the standard conversion parameter 118 is adjusted, provisional image conversion processing is performed based on the adjusted standard conversion parameter 118, and the converted thinning display image data is displayed as the test target image 93. As a result, the standard conversion parameters can be adjusted so as to be satisfactory while confirming the conversion result. A modified conversion parameter 119 is generated from the adjusted standard conversion parameter 118.

  Next, image adjustment processing based on the adjustment data 89 and the standard adjustment parameter 98 is performed on the thinning display image data subjected to the temporary image conversion processing using the change conversion parameter 119. Thereafter, as in the reduced image verification mode, the standard adjustment parameter 98 is adjusted, and the change adjustment parameter 117 is generated. The change conversion parameter 119 and the change adjustment parameter 117 are stored as file data in the order folder 90 and transmitted to the image conversion PC 6.

  The conversion parameters are not limited to the tone curve and white balance parameters shown in FIG. 9, and may include, for example, a sharpness correction parameter. In addition to the parameters shown in FIG. 7, for example, trimming correction parameters can be included as adjustment parameters. Furthermore, combinations of conversion parameters and adjustment parameters are not limited to those listed in the present embodiment, and the combinations can be determined as appropriate. For example, a color balance correction parameter may be included as a conversion parameter.

  The external storage device of the image conversion PC 6 is installed with an image conversion program that performs original image conversion processing on the original image data input from the camera control PC 3 and generates display image data. The display image data is composed of image data of, for example, TIFF format that can be displayed by a PC and printed by a printer, and is converted from the original image data while maintaining the resolution.

  The image conversion program has a reduced image conversion mode and a thinned image conversion mode corresponding to the simple verification mode and the detailed verification mode of the camera control program. Switching between these modes is automatically performed by identifying the type of parameter stored in the order folder 90 transmitted from the image verification PC 5.

  For example, when only the change adjustment parameter 117 is stored in the order folder 90, the reduced image conversion mode is set to indicate that image verification has been performed using the reduced image data. In the reduced image conversion mode, the main image conversion process is performed based on the preset conversion parameter 120 and the change adjustment parameter 117 set in advance. The default conversion parameter 120 is preset according to a specific shooting environment such as the studio of the photo studio, and is stored in the external storage device of the image conversion PC 6 and is read and used during the image conversion process. Is done. In this way, by using the default conversion parameter 120 specified for the studio with a small change in the shooting environment, adjustment of the conversion parameter 120 in the verification operation can be omitted, so that the efficiency of the verification operation can be improved. it can.

  When the change adjustment parameter 117 and the change conversion parameter 119 are stored in the order folder 90, the thinned image conversion mode is set to indicate that image verification has been performed using the thinned original image data. . In this thinned image conversion mode, the main image conversion process is performed based on the change conversion parameter 119 and the change adjustment parameter 117.

  The display image data generated from the original image data by the image conversion process is stored in the order folder 90 with the file name as it is and the extension is converted to “tif”. As a result, since all data generated by photographing of a specific customer is stored in the order folder 90, it is possible to easily cope with an order such as extra printing. The display image data is output from the image conversion PC 6 to the printer 7, and the ordered number of sheets is printed at the size of the order received.

  Next, the processing procedure of the image processing system of the present invention will be described using the flowchart shown in FIG. The digital camera 2 or the camera control PC 3 is operated to set shooting conditions for the digital camera 2 (S1). The camera control PC 3 selects a mode for post-processing such as order acceptance, image verification, and image conversion performed after shooting (S2). Hereinafter, a case where the simple test mode is selected will be described.

  Based on the set shooting conditions, a customer is shot by the digital camera 2 in the studio, and original image data and reduced image data are generated (S3). The original image data and the reduced image data are stored in the external storage device 33 of the camera control PC 3 by the input / output I / Fs 28 and 29 and the communication cable 30 (S4). When the original image data and the reduced image data are stored in the recording medium 26, they are transmitted to the external storage device 33 by the subsequent operation of the digital camera 2 or the camera control PC 3. Since the camera control program is set to the simple verification mode (S5), the camera control PC 3 transmits reduced image data to the order PC 4 and the image verification PC 5 (S6).

  The ordering PC 4 uses the ordering program print order screen 48 shown in FIG. 5 to receive an order for an image to be printed from the customer. Further, the image adjustment screen 50 shown in FIG. 6 is used to perform image adjustment desired by the customer (S7). With this order, order data 88 and adjustment data 89 are generated, stored in the order folder 90, and transmitted to the image verification PC 5 (S8). As described above, since the reduced image data is used for the order reception from the customer, it is possible to receive the order immediately after the completion of photographing without waiting for the image conversion processing. In addition, image adjustment can be performed based on a customer's request when an order is received.

  The order data 88 is also transmitted to the camera control PC 3. The camera control PC 3 transmits the original image data corresponding to the print ordered image to the image conversion PC 6 (S9). As described above, only the original image data for which print order has been placed is transmitted from the camera control PC 3 to the image conversion PC 6, so that unnecessary load of original image data having a large data size causes load on each PC due to data transfer. Will not occur.

  The image verification PC 5 performs image adjustment processing on the reduced image data based on the adjustment data 89 transmitted from the order PC 4 and the standard adjustment parameter 98 set in advance, and the image of the reduced image data after the adjustment is obtained. A list is displayed in the reduced image display area 95 (S10). As a result, an image test reflecting the customer's request can be performed. Since the reduced images displayed in the reduced image display area 95 are displayed in black and white except for those that have already been verified or excluded from the verification target, it is possible to easily identify the images that need to be verified.

  The image selected by the operator in the reduced image display area 95 is displayed large in the test object image display area 94 as the test object image 93. The operator operates the adjustment units 110a to 110e on the image adjustment screen 109 to adjust the standard adjustment parameter 98 of the test target image 93 (S11). As a result, the image adjustment process is performed on the reduced image data corresponding to the verification target image 93 based on the changed standard adjustment parameter 98, and the adjusted image is updated and displayed in the verification target image display area 94. . The image adjustment is finished when an image having a finish desired by the operator is obtained. When the image adjustment is completed and the “OK” button 115 is operated, a change adjustment parameter 117 representing the content of the image adjustment is generated, stored in the order folder 90, and transmitted to the image conversion PC 6 (S12).

  The image conversion PC 6 specifies original image data to be printed based on the order data 88, and performs image conversion processing on the original image data based on the change adjustment parameter 117 and the conversion parameter 120 (S13). The display image data generated by the image conversion process is stored in the order folder 90. The display image data is output from the image conversion PC 6 to the printer 7, and the print of the ordered number is performed with the size of the order received (S14). The completed print is delivered to the customer along with a delivery note (S15).

  As described above, since the conversion parameter set in advance according to the shooting environment of the studio is used, adjustment of the conversion parameter can be omitted, and the efficiency of the verification work can be improved. In addition, since the conversion parameter is not adjusted, the reduced image data can be used for the verification operation, so that the verification operation can be performed immediately after the photographing is completed. Further, since it is not necessary to perform image conversion processing at the time of verification, the verification work time can be shortened.

  Next, the case where the detailed verification mode is selected in the selection of the post-processing mode of the camera control PC 3 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Thinned original image data is generated by the thinned original image data generation program from the original image data (S4) generated by photographing (S2) and stored in the camera control PC 3 (S16). The generated thinned original image data is transmitted by the camera control PC 3 to the ordering PC 4 and the image verification PC 5 (S17).

  The ordering PC 4 performs provisional image conversion processing on the received thinned original image data to generate thinned display image data (S18). Then, an order for an image to be printed is received from the customer using the print order screen 48 of the ordering program shown in FIG. 5, and an image adjustment desired by the customer is received using the image adjustment screen 50 shown in FIG. (S19). By this order, order data 88 and adjustment data 89 are generated, stored in the order folder 90, and transmitted to the image verification PC 5 (S20). The camera control PC 3 transmits the original image data to the image conversion PC 6 based on the order data (S21).

  The image verification PC 5 performs provisional image conversion processing on the received thinned original image data based on the standard conversion parameter 118 to generate thinned display image data (S22). Using the conversion condition change screen 126 shown in FIG. 9, the standard conversion parameter 118 is adjusted to generate the changed conversion parameter 119 (S23). Further, the image data for thinning display subjected to the temporary image conversion process by the change conversion parameter 119 is subjected to an image adjustment process based on the adjustment data 89 and the standard adjustment parameter 98 (S24), and the standard adjustment parameter 98 is adjusted and changed. The adjustment parameter 117 is generated (S25). The change conversion parameter 119 and the change adjustment parameter 117 are stored as file data in the order folder 90 and transmitted to the image conversion PC 6 (S26).

  The image conversion PC 6 specifies original image data to be printed based on the order data 88, and performs image conversion processing on the original image data based on the change adjustment parameter 117 and the change conversion parameter 119 (S27). The display image data generated by the image conversion process is stored in the order folder 90. The display image data is output from the image conversion PC 6 to the printer 7, and the print of the ordered number is performed with the size of the order received (S14). The completed print is delivered to the customer along with a delivery note (S15).

  In this way, by selecting the post-processing mode at the start of shooting, when shooting in a shooting environment different from the normal shooting environment, the conversion parameters can be adjusted using the thinned original image data. Therefore, there is no need for the trouble of adjusting the conversion parameter with the original image data again after performing the image verification with the reduced image data.

  In the above embodiment, the post-processing mode is selected at the start of imaging, and the thinned original image data is generated from the original image data only when the detailed verification mode is selected. However, for example, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 12, after the photographing, original thinned-out image data is generated from the original image data (S5), and the order selection (S7, S8) and image verification (reduced image data) are performed. If image correction such as white balance and exposure is necessary in the image verification (S12), the thinned original image data generated and recorded in advance is read (S17), and the conversion parameter is set. An image test (S18 to S21) can be performed. According to this, even when it is difficult to select the post-processing mode from the shooting environment at the start of shooting, the image verification can be performed in a short time.

  Further, the procedure of each of the above embodiments is changed, and 1. 1. Perform image verification with reduced image data. When image verification cannot be performed with this reduced image data, 3. 3. Generate thinned original image data from the original image data; Image verification may be performed with the thinned original image data. According to this, when satisfactory results cannot be obtained by the image verification with the reduced image data, the thinned original image data is generated for the first time, so the camera is used with a small number of PCs such as one or two. Even when control, order reception, image verification, image conversion, and the like are performed, image verification and order reception can be performed without waiting for generation of thinned image data.

  In the above embodiment, the post-processing selection is performed by the camera control PC 3, but may be performed by the digital camera 2. The generation of the thinned original image data may also be performed by the digital camera 2. Further, when the detailed verification mode is selected, the reduced image data may not be generated in the digital camera 2, or the generated reduced image data may not be transmitted to the camera control PC 3.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the camera control PC 3, the order PC 4, the image verification PC 5, and the image conversion PC 6 are used, but the program installed on each PC is installed on one PC. An image processing system can be constructed, and the same program can be installed on a plurality of PCs to improve processing efficiency. Alternatively, the PC for the simple verification mode and the PC for the detailed verification mode may be installed separately, and the PC that operates according to the selected mode may be switched.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the image processing system of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a digital camera and PC for camera control. It is explanatory drawing which shows the image data recorded in the recording medium. It is explanatory drawing which shows the image data recorded on the external storage device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the print order screen of an order program. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the image adjustment screen of the program for order. It is explanatory drawing which shows the storage content of an order folder. It is explanatory drawing which shows the operation screen at the time of image adjustment of the image verification program. It is explanatory drawing which shows the operation screen at the time of the conversion conditions adjustment of the image verification program. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of simple verification mode. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of detailed verification mode. It is a flowchart which shows the image processing procedure of another embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

2 Digital camera 3 Camera control PC
4 PC for order
5 PC for image verification
6 PC for image conversion
7 Printer 88 Order data 89 Adjustment data 90 Order folder 98 Standard adjustment parameter 117 Change adjustment parameter 118 Standard conversion parameter 119 Change conversion parameter 120 Standard conversion parameter

Claims (11)

Original image data is input from an imaging device that generates original image data and reduced image data obtained by reducing the original image data by photographing, and the original image data is subjected to image conversion processing based on conversion parameters and displayed. In an image processing method for generating image data for use,
Image verification is performed using the reduced image data, and image conversion processing is performed on the original image data based on a preset first conversion parameter and a first adjustment parameter obtained by image verification on the reduced image data. A first mode to apply;
An image test is performed using the thinned original image data generated by thinning out the original image data at a constant rate, and based on the second conversion parameter and the second adjustment parameter obtained by the image test on the thinned original image data. An image processing method characterized in that the second mode for performing image conversion processing on original image data is switched according to the shooting environment. Original image data is input from an imaging device that generates original image data and reduced image data obtained by reducing the original image data by photographing, and the original image data is subjected to image conversion processing based on conversion parameters and displayed. In an image processing method for generating image data for use,
Thinning out the original image data at a constant rate to generate thinned original image data,
Perform image verification on the reduced image data,
If this reduced image data cannot be image verified, perform image verification with the thinned original image data,
When the image verification is performed on the reduced image data, the image conversion process is performed on the original image data based on the first conversion parameter set in advance and the first adjustment parameter obtained by the image verification,
When the image verification is performed on the thinned original image data, the image data for display is obtained by performing image conversion processing on the original image data based on the second conversion parameter and the second adjustment parameter obtained by the image verification. An image processing method comprising generating the image processing method. The original image data is input from a photographing device that generates original image data and reduced image data obtained by reducing the original image data by photographing, and the original image data is subjected to image conversion processing based on a conversion parameter, In an image processing apparatus that generates display image data,
Mode switching means for switching the mode between the first mode and the second mode;
Image input means for inputting the original image data and the reduced image data in the first mode, and for inputting the original image data in the second mode;
Thinned original image data generating means for generating the thinned original image data by thinning the original image data at a constant rate in the second mode;
Image verification means for performing image verification on the reduced image data in the first mode and performing image verification on the thinned original image data in the second mode;
The original image data is subjected to image conversion processing based on the first conversion parameter set in advance in the first mode and the first adjustment parameter generated by the image verification means, and in the second mode, the image verification is performed. Display image data generation means for generating image data for display by subjecting the original image data to image conversion processing based on the second conversion parameter generated by the means and the second adjustment parameter. An image processing apparatus. The original image data is input from a photographing device that generates original image data and reduced image data obtained by reducing the original image data by photographing, and the original image data is subjected to image conversion processing based on a conversion parameter, In an image processing apparatus that generates display image data,
Image input means for inputting the original image data and the reduced image data;
Thinned original image data generating means for thinning the original image data at a constant rate to generate thinned original image data,
If the image verification is performed on the reduced image data and the image verification cannot be performed on the reduced image data, the image verification means for performing the image verification on the thinned original image data;
When image verification is performed on the reduced image data, the original image data is subjected to image conversion processing based on the first conversion parameter set in advance and the first adjustment parameter generated by the image verification means. When the image verification is performed on the thinned original image data, the original image data is subjected to image conversion processing based on the second conversion parameter generated by the image verification means and the second adjustment parameter and displayed. An image processing apparatus comprising: display image data generation means for generating image data. A photographing device that generates original image data of a photographed subject and reduced image data obtained by reducing the original image data;
An image processing system comprising the image processing apparatus according to claim 3.   Mode switching means for switching the mode between the first mode and the second mode; original image data and reduced image data are input from the photographing apparatus in the first mode; An image input means for inputting image data, and a thin film original image data generation means for generating original thinned-out image data by thinning out the original image data at a fixed rate in the second mode, Image processing program.   The computer apparatus functions as an image verification means for performing image verification on the reduced image data in the first mode and performing image verification on the thinned original image data in the second mode. The image processing program according to claim 6.   In the first mode, the original image data is subjected to image conversion processing based on the first conversion parameter set in advance and the first adjustment parameter generated by the image verification means, and in the second mode. A computer apparatus is used as display image data generation means for generating image data for display by subjecting the original image data to image conversion processing based on the second conversion parameter generated by the image verification means and the second adjustment parameter. 8. The image processing program according to claim 7, wherein the image processing program is made to function.   A computer apparatus is made to function as an image input means for inputting original image data and reduced image data from a photographing apparatus, and a thinned original image data generating means for generating thinned original image data by thinning the original image data at a constant rate. An image processing program.   When the reduced image data is subjected to image verification, and when the reduced image data cannot be subjected to image verification, the computer apparatus is caused to function as image verification means for performing image verification on the thinned original image data. The image processing program according to claim 9, wherein:   When image verification is performed on the reduced image data, image conversion processing is performed on the original image data based on the first conversion parameter set in advance and the first adjustment parameter generated by the image verification means. When the image verification is performed on the thinned original image data, the original image data is subjected to image conversion processing based on the second conversion parameter generated by the image verification means and the second adjustment parameter. The image processing program according to claim 10, wherein a computer device is caused to function as print image data generation means for generating print image data.

Images