JP2006287285A - Photography seal forming device, method and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the originality or entertaining properties of a photography image offered to a user so as to increase the degree of user's satisfaction and a photography seal forming device in profitability. <P>SOLUTION: A background color control unit 223 allows a user to select a background color and feeds information concerning the background color selected by the user to a photograph preparation control unit 221. A pattern control unit 224 allows the user to select a gradation pattern and feeds information as to the gradation pattern selected by the user to the photography preparation control unit 221. The photograph preparation control unit 221 feeds information on the background color and gradation pattern to a background image processing unit which performs image processing on the background image, so that the background image is converted to gradations of the background color and the gradation pattern. This invention can be applied to a photography seal forming device which is installed in a game center etc. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for creating a photo sticker, and a program, and in particular, improves the uniqueness or entertainment of a photographed image provided to a user, improves the satisfaction of the user, and improves the profitability of the apparatus. The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for creating a photo sticker and a program.

  Conventionally, a user (subject) is photographed, and the obtained subject image is edited with a pre-prepared frame image, stamp image, or handwritten line image graffiti input image, and printed on sticker paper. There is known a photo sticker creating apparatus provided to a user.

  For example, a user (mainly a group of many people) who photographed himself / herself with a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) camera installed in the housing after inserting coins, was recorded There has been a photo sticker creation device that creates a unique image and divides and prints on a sticker paper by editing a predetermined or arbitrary character or figure by using an attached pen or the like on a liquid crystal panel. The sticker paper created and provided to the user is exchanged with a friend or acquaintance of the user by the user, pasted into a notebook, like an album, or pasted on a postcard, for example. The

  In other words, such a photo sticker creation device has the right to use various devices such as CCD cameras, monitors, touch pens, speakers, and printers (facility use service), and the use of space for work such as shooting and editing. Rights (site use service) are provided to the user, and the enjoyment of work such as shooting and editing is enhanced, and the user is made to perform such work as a game (play service), and a photo sticker is provided as a result of the game. Instead of providing (a sticker sheet on which a user image or the like is printed), the game device (play service providing device) receives a price from the user. Therefore, such a photo sticker creating apparatus is usually installed in a store such as a game center or a sightseeing spot.

  In such places (stores), the space (store space) where the device can be installed is limited, and how much profit can be made per unit time in the limited store space (revenue rate) ) Is an important matter for a purchaser of such a photo sticker creating apparatus (for example, a manager of a game center that is renting a room of a relatively high rent building located in a downtown area).

  Therefore, this photographic sticker creating apparatus has been improved so that the rate of return per unit area (per unit time) is higher, that is, the user's turnover rate relative to the installation space is improved.

  In addition to improving the turnover rate, it is conceivable to improve profitability by improving the quality of services provided (improving user satisfaction). By improving the quality of service (improving user satisfaction), for example, the popularity of the game can be increased by so-called word-of-mouth, and the number of customers can be increased. It is also possible to make the player want to play the game again (so-called repeaters are increased). For this reason, various forms of services have been provided.

  In the photo sticker creation device, in order to improve the user's satisfaction, the background curtain provided behind the photographed user is changed by the user's operation, so that the use reflected in the photo sticker is used Some have changed their background image. The photo sticker creating apparatus provides background images of various patterns by providing not only one background curtain but also a plurality of background curtains.

  In addition, in order to increase the types of background images, the photo sticker creation apparatus extracts and extracts only a single color such as a background curtain by image processing called chroma key composition, and replaces the extracted single color. Some of them provide photo stickers as if they were in different spaces by combining different colors and various images such as landscapes. Furthermore, when editing, if a user specifies a portion to be extracted from the image displayed on the touch panel for editing using a touch pen used for graffiti, only the specified portion is displayed in a different color or in advance by image processing. Some are designed to be replaced with a defined background image. In this case, in particular, even if the color of the part to be extracted is not a single color, the specified part can be extracted by specifying the periphery, so that it does not depend on the background curtain color or design.

  In addition, by displaying a model that shows how to pose a video or still image, the pose is guided to the user step by step, and the point that is the point of the pose is displayed with a figure such as a circle or arrow. There is also a photo vending machine that uses and guides (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Furthermore, there is also a method for automatically creating a photo sticker that can change a variable body that can constitute a part of the surrounding scene provided in the shooting space during the imaging process (see, for example, Patent Document 2). There is also a method for creating a photo sticker that uses a variable shape that forms at least a part of the surrounding scene in the shooting space and changes its form (see, for example, Patent Document 3).

  Furthermore, there is also a photo print system that can photograph reflected light as a background of a user who is a subject (see, for example, Patent Document 4). There is also a photo print system that displays a background image that is the background of the subject at a position that is the background of the subject (see, for example, Patent Document 5).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-25027 JP 2004-13070 A JP 2004-179740 A JP 2004-219670 A JP 2003-322903 A

  However, when a plurality of background curtains are physically mounted, the maximum number of background curtains that can be mounted depends on the size of the device, so there is a problem that the number of background curtains that can be mounted is limited due to the configuration of the device. there were.

  It is also possible to increase the number of types of background images regardless of the number of background curtains by using chroma key composition, but it is possible to extract a single color or a range specified with a touch pen. Since only colors (patterns) and images stored in advance in the device can be used, variations are limited and it cannot be said that original photo stickers can be created.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and improves the uniqueness or entertainment of the captured image provided to the user, improves the satisfaction of the user, and improves the profitability of the apparatus. Is to be able to.

  The photo sticker creating apparatus of the present invention captures an image including a user and captures an image of the user, and accepts an input of first information relating to a color of an area serving as a background image of the user. 1 accepting means, second accepting means for accepting input of second information relating to the pattern of the area, and based on the accepted first information and second information, the image data corresponding to the area has the color and The generation means for generating the image data of the image and the display of the image corresponding to the generated image data so that the image data corresponding to the pattern can be displayed while the user can shoot while viewing the image. And display control means for controlling.

  In the photo sticker creating apparatus of the present invention, an image including a user is captured, the user is photographed, and the input of the first information relating to the color of the region to be the background image of the user is received from the image. The input of the second information related to the pattern is accepted, and the image data corresponding to the region becomes the image data corresponding to the color and the pattern based on the received first information and second information. The image data is generated, and the display of the image corresponding to the generated image data is controlled so that the user can perform the photographing operation while viewing the image.

  Therefore, by doing so, the background image processing unit can change the background image of the photographed subject to a gradation with the color selected by the user. As a result, the uniqueness or entertainment of the captured image provided to the user can be improved, the satisfaction of the user can be improved, and the profitability of the apparatus can be improved.

  This photographing means is constituted by, for example, a CCD camera constituted by an imaging device using a CCD for obtaining an image, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) camera, etc. The first receiving means is, for example, a CPU It is configured by a background color control unit included in the shooting preparation processing unit of the control unit such as (Central Processing Unit). The background color control unit touches an area indicating a desired background color (presses the touch panel) from a plurality of background colors on the background color selection screen for selecting a background color displayed on the photographing monitor. In this case, based on the position information specified by the user supplied from the touch panel control unit that controls the touch panel, information indicating the background color selected by the user is supplied to the photographing preparation control unit.

  Therefore, since the types of background images increase many times, it takes time until the user gets bored even if the user uses the same photo sticker creating apparatus. In addition, since various background images can be photographed and doodled, the originality can be improved and the satisfaction of the user can be improved.

  The first receiving means displays a plurality of colors suitable for the atmosphere of the mode as the first information in accordance with the mode for photographing the user, and inputs the first information from the displayed color group Can be accepted.

  Therefore, since the color suitable for the atmosphere corresponding to the mode is selected and displayed, even when the background image has to be determined within a predetermined time, the user can quickly find the desired background image. You can select and decide.

  The second accepting unit is constituted by, for example, a pattern control unit included in a photographing preparation processing unit of a control unit such as a CPU. The pattern control unit touches an area indicating a desired gradation pattern from among a plurality of gradation patterns on the gradation pattern selection screen for selecting the gradation pattern displayed on the monitor for photographing (the touch panel is pressed). ), Information indicating the gradation pattern selected by the user is supplied to the photographing preparation control unit based on the position information designated by the user supplied from the touch panel control unit that controls the touch panel.

  Therefore, since the types of background images increase many times, even if the user uses the same photo sticker creating device, it takes time to get tired, and the purchaser of the photo sticker creating device (for example, at the game center) Management, etc.) can expect a stable income continuously.

  The second accepting unit can display a plurality of gradations suitable for the atmosphere of the mode as the second information according to the mode, and can accept the input of the second information from the displayed gradation group. .

  Since gradations that match the atmosphere according to the mode are selected and displayed, the user can quickly select the desired background image even when the background image must be determined within a predetermined time. Can be determined.

  In addition, the second reception unit displays a plurality of gradation patterns with colors corresponding to the atmosphere that the user thinks as prepared as the third information, and from the displayed pattern group, the third reception unit Input of information can be accepted.

  Since a gradation pattern with a color that matches the atmosphere according to the mode is selected and displayed, the user can select a desired background image even if the background image must be determined within a predetermined time. Can be selected and determined quickly. Further, even a user who does not have a clear image with respect to the background image can select a background image (gradation) corresponding to the atmosphere by selecting an atmosphere that suits the user.

  The generation unit is configured by a background image processing unit included in a photographing processing unit of a control unit such as a CPU, for example. The background image processing unit is controlled by the shooting control unit, based on the setting information supplied from the setting information acquisition processing unit and the shooting image data supplied from the shooting image acquisition processing unit, for the background image, Predetermined image processing is performed.

  Therefore, the user can create a variety of gradations as a background image by combining the background color and the gradation pattern, so that a highly original photo sticker can be created, and the user satisfaction Can be improved.

  The display control means is constituted by, for example, a real-time live view image display processing unit included in a photographing processing unit of a control unit such as a CPU. The real-time live view image display processing unit is a captured image (moving image) captured by the CCD camera by controlling the photographing unit under the control of the photographing control unit, and the background image processing unit performs background image processing. The image (captured image) subjected to the above is sequentially displayed on the real-time live view monitor as a real-time view (real-time live view image) via the display control unit.

  Therefore, the user can provide a high-quality photo sticker using high-quality captured images, and the user can take a picture while checking the high-quality real-time view image (the same real-time view image as the captured image). Therefore, it is possible to improve the satisfaction of the user, make the user want to use it again, and improve the profit rate.

  The method for creating a photo sticker of the present invention captures an image including a user, captures the user, and accepts an input of first information relating to a color of an area serving as a background image of the user in the image. The image data corresponding to the region is color and pattern based on the first accepting step, the second accepting step accepting the input of the second information regarding the pattern of the region, and the accepted first information and the second information. The generation step for generating the image data of the image and the display of the image corresponding to the generated image data are controlled so that the user can perform the shooting operation while viewing the image And a display control step.

  In the photo sticker creation method of the present invention, an image including a user is captured, the user is photographed, and the input of the first information regarding the color of the region that becomes the background image of the user is received from the image. The input of the second information related to the pattern is accepted, and the image data corresponding to the region becomes the image data corresponding to the color and the pattern based on the received first information and second information. The generation step for generating the image data and the display of the image corresponding to the generated image data are controlled so that the user can perform the photographing operation while viewing the image.

  The program according to the present invention captures an image including a user and shoots the user, and a first reception that receives input of first information related to a color of a region that is a background image of the user in the image. Step, a second receiving step for receiving input of second information relating to the pattern of the region, and image data corresponding to the region corresponding to the color and pattern based on the received first information and second information Display that controls the generation step of generating image data of the image and the display of the image corresponding to the generated image data so that the user can perform the shooting operation while viewing the image And a control step.

  The program of the present invention is recorded on a predetermined recording medium, read by, for example, a drive, and installed in the photo sticker creating apparatus. Recording media include magnetic disks such as floppy (registered trademark) disks, optical disks including CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disk), MD (Mini Disk) (registered trademark), etc. And a removable medium such as a semiconductor memory.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the uniqueness or entertainment of a captured image provided to a user, improve the satisfaction of the user, and improve the profitability of the apparatus.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external configuration example of an embodiment of a photo sticker creating apparatus to which the present invention is applied.

  The photo sticker creating apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1 enhances the amusement of work such as shooting and editing, and instead of allowing the user to perform such work as a game (play service), a game apparatus that receives a price from the user (Game service providing device), which is usually installed in a store such as a game center or a sightseeing spot. That is, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 provides the user with a photo sticker creating game as will be described later. A user (mainly a group of multiple people), in the photo sticker creation game, shot the user himself / herself with a CCD camera installed in the housing after inserting the coins, and recorded user images Is edited by writing predetermined or arbitrary characters or figures on the liquid crystal panel using an attached pen or the like, creating a unique image and printing it on a sticker sheet. The sticker paper created and provided to the user is exchanged with a friend or acquaintance of the user by the user, pasted into a notebook, like an album, or pasted on a postcard, for example. The

  The casing 10 of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 in FIG. 1 is configured by a plurality of units and the like. The first unit 11 and the second unit 12 are separated by a predetermined distance from the frame 14A, the frame 14B, and the floor. 13 to be connected.

  As shown in FIG. 1, of the four side surfaces perpendicular to the ground surface (the upper surface of the floor portion 13) of the rectangular parallelepiped first unit 11, the surface facing the second unit 12 is the front surface 11-1. The side surface adjacent to the right side of the front surface 11-1 is referred to as the right side surface 11-2, the side surface facing the front surface 11-1 is referred to as the back surface 11-3, and the side y adjacent to the left side of the front surface 11-1. The surface (side surface facing the right side surface 11-2) is referred to as the left side surface 11-4. The configuration of each surface will be described later.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the first unit 11 and the second unit 12 are coupled at their upper left and right sides so as to maintain a predetermined distance by a frame 14 </ b> A and a frame 14 </ b> B. Moreover, the 1st unit 11 and the 2nd unit 12 are connected so that the predetermined distance may be maintained by the floor part 13 in the lower part. The floor 13 is a member that connects the first unit 11 and the second unit 12, and the floor (photographing when the user performs photographing between the first unit 11 and the second unit 12 as described later). It is a member that becomes a floor of the space, and is a housing in which a predetermined part is stored. For example, a cable for electrically connecting the first unit 11 and the second unit is stored in the floor portion 13. Of course, any other member may be stored. The upper surface of the floor portion 13 (the floor surface of the shooting space) may be a horizontal plane, a plane having an angle (inclined) with respect to the horizontal direction, or a curved surface with irregularities. There may be.

  Of course, the shape of the first unit 11 and the second unit 12 may not be a rectangular parallelepiped. Of course, the first unit 11 and the second unit 12 may be configured as one unit (one housing).

  FIG. 2 is an external view showing an installation example of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1.

  In FIG. 2, in addition to the case of FIG. 1, a ceiling portion 21 is provided above the first unit 11 and the second unit 12 so as to cover the frame 14A and the frame 14B. The 1st unit 11 and the 2nd unit 12 are connected by ceiling part 21 with 14B. Thereby, the closing property of the imaging space which is the space (the space on the floor portion 13) between the first unit 11 and the second unit 12 can be improved as compared with the case of FIG. Space can be provided to users. It should be noted that curtains 24-1 and 24-2 are further suspended from the left and right sides of the ceiling portion 21 (side surfaces serving as entrances and exits of the shooting space). In this way, by improving the closeness of the shooting space, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can not only form a shooting space with a stable environment but also view the state of shooting from a person located outside the shooting space. Can be suppressed.

  A U-shaped curtain frame 22 is provided on the upper portion of the first unit 11 on the back surface 11-3 side. An editing space is provided in the vicinity of the front surface of the rear surface 11-3, as will be described later. The curtain 23-1 to the curtain 23 are separated so as to divide the editing space and the surrounding space (so as to surround the editing space). 23-4 is provided. Thereby, it can suppress that the edit work content is browsed by the person located outside the edit space.

  The curtain frame 22 may be provided so as to be movable or detachable with respect to the first unit 11 and the second unit 12, respectively. For example, the editing frame may be deleted (omitted) by sliding or removing the curtain frame 22 for each of the curtains 23-1 to 23-4. Of course, part or all of the curtain frame 22 and the curtains 23-1 to 23-4 may be stored in the first unit 11.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the front surface 11-1 of the first unit 11 in FIG. 1.

  On the front surface 11-1, for example, an illumination unit 31A, an illumination unit 31B, an illumination unit 31C, an imaging unit 32, a CCD camera 33, a real-time live view monitor 34, an imaging monitor 35, an audio output unit 36A, an audio output unit 36B, In addition, a configuration related to photographing processing such as a coin insertion / exhaust port 37 is provided.

  The illuminating unit 31A, the illuminating unit 31B, and the illuminating unit 31C are configured by an illuminating device that can emit strobe light, and the CCD camera 33 shoots a user (captures a still image from an image captured by the CCD camera 33). Strobe light is emitted at the corresponding timing to irradiate the user who is shooting. In the following description, the illumination unit 31A, the illumination unit 31B, and the illumination unit 31C are referred to as the illumination unit 31 when there is no need to describe them separately. Further, each of the illumination units 31 may be provided so as to have a predetermined angle with respect to the front surface 11-1 (in a tilted state so that the user can effectively irradiate light). Good. Further, the number of the illumination units 31 is not limited to three, that is, the illumination unit 31A, the illumination unit 31B, and the illumination unit 31C, and may be two or less or four or more. Moreover, the light emission timing of each illumination part may not be mutually simultaneous.

  The photographing unit 32 is provided with a CCD camera 33 and a real-time live view monitor 34. The CCD camera 33 is configured by an imaging device using a CCD for imaging a user and obtaining an image. In place of the CCD camera 33, for example, a CMOS camera may be used. Further, any image can be used as long as the user can be imaged and digital image data can be obtained.

  A real-time live view monitor 34 in the lower part of the figure near the CCD camera 33 is composed of a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and the user's live view image captured by the CCD camera 33. (Captured video) is displayed. Specifically, the real-time live view monitor 34 appropriately synthesizes and displays the composition moving image set by the user with the user's live view image. The user can confirm the image of himself / herself immediately before photographing without significantly shifting his / her line of sight from the image displayed on the real-time live view monitor 34 provided in the vicinity of the CCD camera 33. In addition, since a synthesized image of moving images is synthesized and displayed as will be described later, entertainment is increased, and the user can perform a shooting operation while enhancing the atmosphere.

  The photographing monitor 35 is configured by a CRT display or LCD, and displays a screen for setting photographing work, a confirmation screen for setting contents, and the like. As will be described later, a colorless and transparent pressure-sensitive touch panel is superimposed on the display surface of the photographing monitor 35, and the user taps (contacts) the screen with a finger or the like, thereby the photographing monitor. A GUI (Graphical User Interface) screen displayed on the screen 35 can be operated. In place of the pressure-sensitive touch panel described above, an electromagnetic induction touch pen and touch panel may be used. An input device such as a switch is provided in the vicinity of the photographing monitor 35 separately from the photographing monitor 35. You may make it provide. Of course, other input devices may be used.

  The audio output unit 36A and the audio output unit 36B are configured by speakers, and output audio of two left and right channels (channels different from each other) (for example, shooting work guidance audio and BGM (Back Ground Music)). In the following, when there is no need to distinguish between the audio output unit 36A and the audio output unit 36B, they are collectively referred to as the audio output unit 36.

  The coin insertion / exhaust port 37 is used for the user to start a photo sticker creation game (a series of operations until a photo sticker is provided from the photo sticker creation device 1 such as a photographing operation and an editing operation as will be described later). And an opening for inserting coins having a predetermined charge. The coin insertion / exhaust port 37 is, for example, an opening that serves as an outlet through which coins inserted are discharged when an incorrect amount of coins is inserted or when a user requests a refund of charges during the insertion. Also have.

  Of course, the coin insertion / exhaust port 37 may be provided on a surface other than the front surface 11-1, but by providing the coin insertion / exhaust port 37 on the front surface 11-1, the user has inserted coins. Immediately after that, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can start processing relating to the game (processing relating to photographing work). Of course, instead of the coin insertion and discharge port 37, a bill insertion (discharge) port through which a bill can be inserted may be provided so that the user can pay the bill with the bill. Of course, the bill insertion (discharge) port and the coin insertion / discharge port 37 described above may be used in combination. Further, it is of course possible to provide a mechanism that allows the user to pay the price (by a method other than cash) using a prepaid card or a credit card, for example.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the back surface 11-3 of the first unit 11 of FIG.

  In FIG. 4, an editing unit 41 in which items used when a user performs editing work is installed on the back surface 11-3. The editing unit 41 includes an editing input monitor 42, two touch pens 43-1 and 43-2, and two sound output units 44-1 and 44-2.

  The edit input monitor 42 is composed of a CRT display or LCD, and displays a GUI image (edit screen) for editing a shot image obtained by shooting in the shooting space, as will be described later. A colorless and transparent touch panel (electromagnetic induction type) is superimposed on the screen of the edit input monitor 42. Further, in the vicinity of the left and right of the editing input monitor 42, a touch pen 43-1 and a touch pen 43-2 corresponding to the touch panel are detachably fixed to the editing unit 41 by a predetermined attachment one by one on the left and right. A human user can perform editing work at the same time.

  In the following, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the left and right touch pens 43-1 and 43-2, they are collectively referred to as touch pens 43.

  The touch pen 43 is also electrically connected to the editing unit 41 by wire (or wireless). The touch pen 43 operates in cooperation with a colorless and transparent touch panel (electromagnetic induction type) superimposed on the screen of the edit input monitor 42. When the user operates these touch pens 43 and taps the touch panel superimposed on the editing input monitor 42 (the touch pen 43 and the touch panel are brought into contact (or close proximity)), the user can input from the user. Operates as a receiving input means. Note that different signals are input from the touch pen 43-1 or the touch pen 43-2 via, for example, a touch panel. Thereby, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can identify which touch pen 43 is tapped on the touch panel. That is, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can acquire not only the position information of the position where the touch pen 43 is tapped but also the identification information of each touch pen 43.

  Also, an audio output unit 44-1 and an audio output unit 44-2 are provided in the vicinity of the lower side of the edit input monitor 42 so as to be arranged side by side. The audio output unit 44-1 and the audio output unit 44-2 are each configured by a speaker, and output audio of two left and right channels (channels different from each other) (for example, editing work guidance audio and BGM). In the following, when there is no need to distinguish between the audio output unit 44-1 and the audio output unit 44-2, they are collectively referred to as the audio output unit 44.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the right side surface 11-2 of the first unit 11.

  In FIG. 5, a post-service customer unit 60 is provided on the right side surface 11-2. The post-service customer unit 60 is provided with a post-service monitor 61, an audio output unit 62-1, and an audio output unit 62-2. The post-service monitor 61 displays a GUI image related to input such as personal settings for a game or an additional service, and accepts input for the GUI image. The audio output unit 62-1 and the audio output unit 62-2 are constituted by speakers, and output audio of two left and right channels (channels different from each other) (for example, post-service audio and BGM). In the following, when there is no need to distinguish between the audio output unit 62-1 and the audio output unit 62-2, they are collectively referred to as the audio output unit 62.

  By providing such a post-service unit 60, a user who completes the editing work and waits until the printing process is finished and the sticker sheet is discharged can be processed by the post-service unit 60 (game). And additional services), you can spend time without getting bored. This improves user satisfaction. In addition, since it can be expected that the improvement of the satisfaction level of the user will lead to an increase in the number of customers, the store side can expect an improvement in profitability.

  A sticker paper discharge port 63 is further provided below the post-service unit 60. The seal paper discharge port 63 is also provided with a stop portion 64 that prevents the sticker paper discharged after being printed by the internal printer from jumping out from the seal paper discharge port 63.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining how the user moves in the space of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 during the game.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 has a photographing space 91, an editing space 92, and a post-service area 93.

  In FIG. 2, the imaging space 91 is a space surrounded by the first unit 11, the second unit 12, the floor 13, and the ceiling 21 of the housing 10 (including part of the second unit 12). This shooting space 91 is a space for a user in the game to perform shooting work for shooting himself / herself using the CCD camera 33 in this shooting space. The user enters the shooting space 91 in accordance with the guidance of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 and starts the game by paying a fee, for example. Then, the user who started the game uses the CCD camera 33 to perform a photographing operation for photographing himself / herself in this photographing space. Note that the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can provide a suitable photographing environment for the user by forming the photographing space 91 and performing photographing work in the photographing space 91. Can be improved. The shooting space 91 is at least large enough to allow several users to perform shooting work while taking arbitrary poses.

  The editing space 92 is a space near the back surface 11-3 formed by being surrounded by the back surface 11-3 of the first unit 11 and the curtains 23-1 to 23-4 to some extent. The editing space 92 is a space for a user in the game to perform editing input work using the editing unit 41 installed on the back surface 11-3. In the case of editing work, since the user does not need to move from the front of the editing unit 41, the editing space 92 is formed narrower than the shooting space 91. Thereby, it can suppress that the installation space of the photograph sticker production apparatus 1 increases unnecessarily.

  The subsequent customer service space 93 is a space near the right side surface 11-2 of the first unit 11. In FIG. 2, the post-service space 93 is not separated from the outside by using a curtain or the like. However, like the editing space 92, the post-service space 93 is separated from the outside by a curtain or the like. Of course it is good. This post-service area 93 is a space for a user who has completed the editing work in the game to move according to the guidance and perform work for the post-service that is performed until printing is completed. For example, setting input work such as game or e-mail transfer of photographed images is performed.

  Next, with reference to this FIG. 6, a mode that a user is guided (a customer service method of the photograph sticker production apparatus 1) is demonstrated.

  As described above, one game is roughly divided into a photographing operation for photographing a user, an editing operation for editing a user image obtained by the photographing operation, and a user image edited by the editing operation. It consists of three steps of printing work to print on paper (including subsequent customer service during the waiting time).

  First, the two users (A0 and B0) in the first set enter the shooting space 91 according to the guidance, etc., when the turn comes, start the game, and the shooting unit 32 (CCD camera 33). Take a picture of yourself by using (A1 and B1). When the photographing work is completed, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 displays an image of moving guidance to the editing space 92 for the users (A1 and B1) of the photographing space 91 and outputs a voice message prompting the movement. Or In accordance with the guidance, the user leaves the shooting space 91 and moves to the editing space 92. The users (A2 and B2) who enter the editing space 92 use the editing unit 41 to edit the captured image. When the editing work is completed, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 guides the user (A2 and B2) of the editing space 92 to move to the vicinity of the sticker paper outlet 63 (near the post-service unit 60) (image display and (Guidance of movement by voice output). In accordance with the guidance, the user leaves the editing space 92 and moves to the post-service space 93 (A3 and B3). The users (A3 and B3) who have moved to the post-service area 93 wait for the printed sticker paper to be discharged while operating the post-service section 60 and performing setting work for image transfer processing. When the sticker paper is discharged, the user receives the sticker paper and the game ends.

  When the first set of users leave the shooting space 91 and move to the editing space 92, the shooting space 91 becomes empty. At that time, the next users (A0 and B0) waiting for the turn The player can enter the shooting space 91 and start the game (A1 and B1). The second set of users (A1 and B1) who entered the shooting space 91 pays the price in the same manner as the first set of users and starts the game, and uses the shooting unit 32 (CCD camera 33). Take a picture of yourself. When the photographing work is completed, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 determines whether or not the editing space 92 is in use at this time, and if the editing space 92 is not used (by the first set of users). When the editing work has already been completed), an image of moving guidance to the editing space 92 is displayed to the users (A1 and B1) of the shooting space 91, or a message for prompting the movement is output as voice. In accordance with the guidance, the user leaves the shooting space 91 and moves to the editing space 92. Similarly to the first set of users, the second set of users (A2 and B2) who entered the editing space 92 edits the captured image using the editing unit 41.

  As described above, in the photo sticker creating apparatus 1, two sets of users can simultaneously perform a shooting operation and an editing operation using the shooting space 91 and the editing space 92 (two sets of two sets of users performing two operations). The game can be run in parallel). That is, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can serve different sets of users in the editing space and the shooting space. That is, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can serve a maximum of two users at the same time. This is hereinafter referred to as “double customer service”. Note that the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can accurately receive three sets of users simultaneously including the users of the post-service space 93, but the customer service processing of the post-service space 93 is short as will be described later. Since it is a customer service during the printing waiting time (so-called “bonus process”), the description will be continued here assuming that it is not included in the number of simultaneous customer services.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 6, when the second set of users finishes the editing work in the editing space 92, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 investigates the usage situation of the post-service area 93 and the post-service area 93 is not used. In this case, the second set of users (A2 and B2) of the editing space 92 is provided with guidance for movement to the customer service space 93 (movement guidance based on image display and voice output). The second set user leaves the editing space 92 according to the guidance and moves to the post-service space 93 (A3 and B3). The users (A3 and B3) who have moved to the post-service area 93 wait for the printed sticker sheet to be discharged while operating the post-service area 93 to perform image transfer processing setting work and the like. When the sticker paper is discharged, the user receives the sticker paper and the game ends.

  That is, the timing chart of the game process by the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is as shown in FIG. One game consists of 3 minutes of shooting (including shooting settings), 3 minutes of editing (including print settings), and 1 minute of printing (after-sales service) (total of 7 minutes). .

  As shown in FIG. 7, in this photo sticker creating apparatus 1, the first set of users 101 who started the game from the reference time plays the game as shown in the timing chart 111, and the first set of users 101 The second set of users 102 waiting for the turn after the game played the game as shown in the timing chart 112, and the third set of users waiting for the turn after the second set of users 102. 103 plays a game as shown in the timing chart 113. In other words, although each game is played for 7 minutes, a new game can be started each time the shooting space 91 becomes usable, so the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 starts the game for the first set of users. From then on, processing until the third set of users' games is completed can be performed in 13 minutes (acquisition of 3 sets of users can be completed in 13 minutes).

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration example of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 of FIG. The same parts as those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  In FIG. 8, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 includes a control unit 161, a control information storage unit 162, an image data holding unit 163, a play information storage unit 164, a user information storage unit 165, which are connected to each other via a bus 151. A coin unit 171, a photographing unit 172, an editing unit 173, a printing unit 174, a subsequent customer service unit 175, a communication unit 176, and a drive 177 are configured.

  The control unit 161 is a processing unit that controls the entire apparatus of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1, and includes a game management unit 181, a coin processing unit 182, a shooting preparation processing unit 183, a shooting processing unit 184, a movement guide processing unit 185, and an editing process. A unit 186, a print processing unit 187, a subsequent customer service processing unit 188, and a time measuring unit 189.

  The game management unit 181 executes processing related to management control such as the progress of a game (photo sticker creation game) that creates a photo sticker and provides it to the user. The coin processing unit 182 performs control processing related to coin insertion by the user. The shooting preparation processing unit 183 controls each unit of the shooting unit 172 such as the shooting monitor 35 and performs shooting preparation processing such as settings related to shooting. The imaging processing unit 184 mainly controls each unit provided on the front surface 11-1 of the first unit 11 and executes processing related to the user's imaging operation during game processing.

  The movement guidance processing unit 185 performs movement guidance processing that prompts a user who has completed a predetermined work in a predetermined space to move to another space. The editing processing unit 186 mainly controls the editing unit 173 and executes processing related to the editing operation of the user during the game processing. The print processing unit 187 controls processing related to the printing work during the photo sticker creation game by controlling the printing unit 174. Subsequent customer service processing unit 188 executes processing related to the sub game and the additional service performed while the user is waiting until the end of printing. The time measuring unit 189 performs processing related to time control, such as generating and supplying all time information based on the request of each unit.

  The control information storage unit 162 is configured by, for example, a hard disk or a flash memory, and stores a program (for example, a program for executing a photo sticker creation game) and data for controlling the photo sticker creation device 1 as a whole. The image data holding unit 163 includes, for example, a hard disk, a flash memory, or a RAM (Random Access Memory), and holds image data obtained by photographing with the CCD camera 33. The play information storage unit 164 includes, for example, a hard disk, a flash memory, or a RAM, and various information generated during execution (during play) of the photo sticker creation game (for example, image brightness set by the user) The setting information related to the sheath and size is stored as play information for each play and managed. That is, the play information storage unit 164 stores information indicating what kind of play is being performed (play information) and setting information necessary for each play (setting information managed for each piece of play information). . The user information storage unit 165 includes, for example, a hard disk, a flash memory, or a RAM, and securely stores personal information such as an e-mail address input by the user in the subsequent customer service process.

  Of course, some or all of these storage units may be configured by a single storage medium, or each of the storage units described above may be configured by a plurality of storage media.

  The coin unit 171 is controlled by the coin processing unit 182 and executes processing such as coin insertion and coin discharge at the coin insertion / exhaust port 37. The photographing unit 172 includes a photographing unit 32 and is controlled by the photographing processing unit 184 to perform photographing processing by the CCD camera 33, display image data obtained by photographing, and obtain obtained image data. Or supplied to the image data holding unit 163 via the bus 151. The editing unit 173 includes an editing unit 41 and is controlled by the editing processing unit 186 to perform processing related to editing input for image data obtained by photographing.

  The printing unit 174 includes a printer, and is controlled by the print processing unit 187 and the like, and performs a process of printing print data including the supplied edited photographed image on a predetermined sticker sheet. The post customer service unit 175 includes the post customer service unit 60 and is controlled by the post customer service processing unit 188 to provide a game, an additional service, and the like to a user who is waiting while the sticker sheet is printed. The communication unit 176 is connected to an external network 191 (for example, the Internet or the like), and performs communication processing with an external device as necessary, for example, when a captured image is distributed. The drive 177 includes a magnetic disk (including a flexible disk), an optical disk (including a compact disk-read only memory (CD-ROM), a DVD (digital versatile disk)), and a magneto-optical disk (MD (mini-disk) (registered). In addition, a removable medium 192 such as a semiconductor memory is appropriately mounted, and a computer program and data read from the medium are stored in the control information storage unit 162 or installed as necessary. .

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration example of the imaging unit 172 of FIG.

  In FIG. 9, an imaging unit 172 includes an audio output control unit 201, an audio output unit 38, an illumination control unit 202, an illumination unit 31, an imaging unit 32, a display control unit 203, a VRAM (Video Random Access Memory) 204, and an imaging monitor. 35, a touch panel 205, and a touch panel control unit 206.

  The audio output control unit 201 generates an analog audio signal based on the audio data supplied from the imaging processing unit 184 via the bus 151, and supplies the analog audio signal to the audio output unit 38. Is output. The illumination control unit 202 controls light emission and power storage of the illumination unit 31, and based on control data supplied from the imaging processing unit 184 via the bus 151, a predetermined value corresponding to the imaging timing (timing for capturing a frame image). At this timing, the illumination unit 31 is caused to emit strobe light.

  The display control unit 203 receives the GUI image data supplied from the shooting processing unit 184 via the bus 151, the shot image data supplied from the image data holding unit 163, or the captured moving image data supplied from the CCD camera 33. As appropriate, image processing such as synthesis is performed using the VRAM 204, and an image (for example, a preview image) obtained by the image processing is displayed on the photographing monitor 35. A touch panel 205 is superimposed on the screen of the photographing monitor 35. The touch panel control unit 206 that controls the touch panel 205 detects a position designated by the user via the touch panel 205 and supplies the position information to the imaging processing unit 184 via the bus 151 as necessary. The instruction information input by the person is reflected in the image displayed on the photographing monitor 35. In addition, the touch panel control unit 206 displays the position information input by the user when the information controlled by the position information input by the user is only simple image processing such as movement of a cursor. It can also be directly supplied to the display control unit 203. In that case, the display control unit 203 processes the image data held in the VRAM 204 based on the supplied position information, and causes the photographing monitor 35 to display an image that easily reflects the user's input.

  The photographing unit 32 includes a CCD camera control unit 211, a CCD camera 33, a display control unit 212, a real-time live view monitor 34, a VRAM 213, and a photographing unit drive unit 214.

  The CCD camera control unit 211 controls the operation of the CCD camera 33, controls the focus position, captures an image frame by frame, and sequentially supplies the captured frame image to the display control unit 212 as a moving image, or specifies The frame image is supplied to the image data holding unit 163 via the bus 151 as a still image obtained by photographing.

  The display control unit 212 controls display on the real-time live view monitor 34. At that time, the display control unit 212 accumulates the image data supplied from the CCD camera 33 via the bus 151 in the VRAM 213 frame by frame, and the composition moving image data supplied from the imaging processing unit 184 as necessary. The synthesized image is displayed on the real-time live view monitor 34 as a real-time live view. Further, the display control unit 212 may further cause the captured image to be displayed on the real-time live view monitor 34 as a preview immediately after shooting.

  The photographing unit driving unit 214 is controlled by the photographing processing unit 184 via the bus 151 and drives the photographing unit 32 to control its position. That is, the photographing unit driving unit 214 controls the position of the photographing unit 32, so that the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 not only photographs the subject (user) in parallel as described above, but also photographs from above. You can shoot from below.

  FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration example of the imaging preparation processing unit 183 in FIG.

  In FIG. 10, the shooting preparation processing unit 183 includes a shooting preparation control unit 221, a mode control unit 222, a background color control unit 223, a pattern control unit 224, and a background information storage unit 225.

  The shooting preparation control unit 221 controls each part of the shooting preparation processing unit 183, and progress of processing for preparation of shooting work performed by the user in the shooting space 91 among a series of processes for creating a photo sticker. To control. In addition, the shooting preparation processing unit 221 causes the shooting monitor 35 to display a screen related to setting of the background image.

  The mode control unit 222 touches an area indicating a desired shooting mode from among a plurality of types of shooting modes on the shooting mode screen for selecting a shooting mode displayed on the display of the shooting monitor 35 (touch panel). 205), information indicating the shooting mode selected by the user based on the position information specified by the user supplied from the touch panel control unit 206 that controls the touch panel 205 (hereinafter referred to as shooting mode information). Is supplied to the imaging preparation control unit 221.

  Here, the shooting mode is a pattern obtained by patterning various parameters such as the brightness of illumination at the time of shooting, background, or image processing for a shot image, and the user can select this shooting mode from a plurality of modes. By selecting from the above, settings relating to shooting can be performed simply.

  The background color control unit 223 touches an area indicating a desired background color from among a plurality of background colors on the background color selection screen for selecting a background color displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35 (touch panel). 205), information indicating the background color selected by the user based on the position information designated by the user supplied from the touch panel control unit 206 that controls the touch panel 205 (hereinafter referred to as background color information). Is supplied to the imaging preparation control unit 221.

  The pattern control unit 224 touches an area indicating a desired gradation pattern from among a plurality of gradation patterns on the gradation pattern selection screen for selecting a gradation pattern displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35 (touch panel 205). Information indicating the gradation pattern selected by the user based on the position information specified by the user supplied from the touch panel control unit 206 that controls the touch panel 205 (hereinafter referred to as gradation pattern information). ) Is supplied to the imaging preparation control unit 221.

  In addition, the pattern control unit 224 selects a recommended gradation pattern from a plurality of recommended gradation patterns on the recommended gradation pattern selection screen, which is a gradation pattern prepared in advance and displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. Touches the area showing the desired recommended gradation pattern (presses the touch panel 205), the user selects based on the position information specified by the user supplied from the touch panel control unit 206 that controls the touch panel 205. Information indicating the recommended gradation pattern (hereinafter referred to as recommended gradation pattern information) is supplied to the shooting preparation control unit 221.

  The background information storage unit 225 is supplied from the shooting preparation control unit 221, and the background color information indicating the first and second background colors selected by the user and the gradation pattern information indicating the gradation pattern (or the recommended pattern). (Gradient pattern information) is stored.

  Hereinafter, background color information and gradation pattern information (or recommended gradation pattern information) are collectively referred to as background information.

  FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration example of the imaging processing unit 184 in FIG.

  In FIG. 11, the imaging processing unit 184 includes an imaging control unit 231, a setting information acquisition processing unit 232, a captured image acquisition processing unit 233, a background image processing unit 234, a real-time live view image display processing unit 235, and a preview image display processing unit 236. And an image storage processing unit 237.

  The shooting control unit 231 controls each part of the shooting processing unit 184, and in a series of processing of a game for creating a photo sticker, a shooting operation performed on the user himself / herself in the shooting space 91 by the user. Control the progress of the process.

  The setting information acquisition processing unit 232 is controlled by the shooting control unit 231 to acquire background information such as background color information and gradation pattern information stored in the background information storage unit 225. The setting information acquisition processing unit 232 supplies the acquired background information to the background image processing unit 234 via the shooting control unit 231. Also, the setting information acquisition processing unit 232 is controlled by the shooting control unit 231 and acquires setting information that is information for displaying a real-time live view image stored in the play information storage unit 164. The setting information acquisition processing unit 232 supplies the acquired setting information to the background image processing unit 234 via the shooting control unit 231.

  The captured image acquisition processing unit 233 is controlled by the imaging control unit 231 to control the imaging unit 172 and perform processing related to acquisition of a captured image. That is, the captured image acquisition processing unit 233 takes out (captures) one frame image at the capturing timing as a captured image of the captured image from the captured images captured by the CCD camera 33, and captures the captured image data (captured image data). ) Is acquired via the bus 151. The captured image acquisition processing unit 233 supplies the acquired captured image data to the background image processing unit 234 via the imaging control unit 231.

  The background image processing unit 234 is controlled by the shooting control unit 231 and based on the setting information supplied from the setting information acquisition processing unit 232 and the shooting image data supplied from the shooting image acquisition processing unit 233. For example, predetermined image processing such as chroma key composition (processing) is performed. The background image processing unit 234 supplies the captured image data subjected to the background image processing to the real-time live view image display processing unit 235 or supplies it to the preview image display processing unit 236.

  The real-time live view image display processing unit 235 is a captured image (moving image) captured from the CCD camera 33 by being controlled by the imaging control unit 231 and controlling the imaging unit 172, and the background image processing unit. The image (captured image) subjected to the background image processing by H.234 is sequentially displayed on the real-time live view monitor 34 as a real-time view (real-time live view image) via the display control unit 212.

  The preview image display processing unit 236 is acquired by the captured image acquisition processing unit 233 under the control of the imaging control unit 231 and the imaging unit 172, and the background image processing unit 234 performs background image processing. The photographed image is displayed on the photographing monitor 35 (and the real-time live view monitor 34) as a preview (preview image) via the display control unit 203.

  The image storage processing unit 237 is controlled by the shooting control unit 231 to control the shooting unit 172 to perform processing for holding the shot image data in the image data holding unit 163.

  In the following, in order to explain the flow of processing relating to the background of a photographed image, the flow of main processing executed by the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 will be described.

  When the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is turned on, the game management unit 181 of the control unit 161 first executes a game management process to start a business and accepts a game for creating a photo sticker.

  The game management process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  The game management unit 181 that has started the game management process controls each unit in step S1 and demonstrates it to, for example, the photographing monitor 35 (including the post-service customer monitor 61 of the post-service unit 60 if not the post-service customer service). Display the screen (demo screen). The shooting monitor 35 controlled by the game management unit 181 (including the post-service monitor 61 when the post-service is not in progress) displays a demonstration screen. In step S2, the game management unit 181 determines whether a new play can be started.

  When it is determined that the previous user has finished the shooting operation, the shooting space 91 is unused, and a new play can be started, the game management unit 181 advances the process to step S3 to perform shooting. A game start guidance screen for guiding the game start method is displayed on the monitor 35. When the customer service is not in progress, the game management unit 181 displays an entrance guidance screen for guiding the user who starts the game to the photographing space 91 on the monitor 61 for subsequent service.

  When the game start guidance screen or the like is displayed, the game management unit 181 advances the process to step S4. In step S4, the coin processing unit 182 controls the coin unit 171 to determine whether or not a game price has been inserted. If it is determined that the game has been inserted, the process proceeds to step S5. In step S5, the game management unit 181 starts a photo sticker creation game process that causes the user to play a game for creating a photo sticker, and advances the process to step S6. The photo sticker creation game process will be described later.

  In step S <b> 6, the game management unit 181 determines whether or not to end the business (whether to accept the start of the photo sticker creation apparatus 1). For example, when it is determined to end the business according to an instruction from the administrator, The process proceeds to step S7, an end process is performed, the process of each unit is stopped, the power is turned off, and the game management process is ended. If it is determined in step S6 that the business is not terminated, the game management unit 181 returns the process to step S1 and repeats the above-described process.

  In step S2, for example, when the previous user is shooting and the shooting space 91 is in use, a new play cannot be started, such as when a new play cannot be started. When it determines, the game management part 181 advances a process to step S8, for example, displays the entrance prohibition screen which prohibits a user from entering the imaging | photography space 91 on the monitor 61 for customer service. Note that this processing may be omitted when the customer service is in progress (when the customer service monitor 61 is in use). When the process of step S8 ends, the game management unit 181 omits the processes of step S3 to step S5, and advances the process to step S6.

  Furthermore, when it is determined in step S4 that the price has not been inserted, the coin processing unit 182 omits the process of step S5 and advances the process to step S6.

  As described above, when the game management unit 181 executes such a game management process and manages the progress of the game, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can normally accept the photo sticker creating game. .

  Next, the main flow of the photo sticker creating game process controlled and executed as described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  As described above, this photo sticker creation game process is executed for each set of users. That is, since the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is capable of “double customer service”, a maximum of two photo sticker creating game processes can be executed in parallel. The execution of this one photo sticker creation game process is called play. As described with reference to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the shooting, editing, and subsequent customer service performed in each space while the user moves in the shooting space 91, the edit space 92, and the subsequent customer service space 93 during play. This photo sticker creation game process is executed in accordance with the work, etc., and processes such as shooting, image editing, printing, and subsequent customer service are performed.

  When the photo sticker creation game process is started, the shooting preparation processing unit 183 controls each unit of the shooting unit 172 such as the shooting monitor 35 and performs shooting preparation processing such as settings related to shooting in step S21. For example, the shooting preparation processing unit 183 displays a GUI image for selecting a shooting mode on the shooting monitor 35 and allows the user to select a shooting mode. The shooting preparation process will be described later.

  When the shooting preparation process such as the selection of the shooting mode is completed, the shooting processing unit 184 advances the process to step S22, controls each unit of the shooting unit 172 such as the CCD camera 33, performs the shooting process, and subjects (users). Take a photo of The user performs a shooting operation by taking a pose or giving a shooting timing instruction for the shooting process, and causes the shooting unit 172 to generate a plurality of shot images. Details of the photographing process will be described later.

  When the photographing work is completed, the movement guide processing unit 185 controls the photographing monitor 35 of the photographing unit 172 and moves the user who has finished the photographing work to move to the editing space 92 with an image or sound. Perform guidance processing. At this time, it is determined whether or not the previous set of users in the editing space 92 is editing, and if it is determined that the editing is in progress, the game management unit 181 includes each unit of the shooting unit 172 such as the shooting monitor 35. Controls to allow the user to play mini-games and so on, and waits so as not to bore the user.

  When the movement guide process performed by the game management unit 181 is completed when the editing space 92 is unused and the movement to the editing space 92 is possible, the editing processing unit 186 has moved to the editing space 92 in step S24. Execute editing processing for the user.

  When the editing process is completed, the print processing unit 187 performs a print setting process such as allowing the user to selectively set the number of divisions of the sticker paper (print image layout) in step S25. When the print setting process is completed, the movement guidance processing unit 185 performs a movement guidance process for moving the user of the editing space 92 to the post-service area 93 in step S26. When the movement guide process is completed, the print processing unit 187 controls the print unit 174 in step S27 to execute the print process based on the print setting set in the print setting process, and the edited photographed image is a photo sticker. Print on paper and provide it to the user.

  Until the print processing is completed, the post-service processing unit 188 performs post-service processing for the user who waits for the end of the print processing in the post-service space 93 in step S28, and transmits the edited image by e-mail transfer or the like. Run mini-games and more.

  When the printing process is completed, the print processing unit 187 controls the printing unit 174 in step S29 to discharge the sticker paper, and the photo sticker creation game process is ended.

  Each part of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 executes the above photo sticker creating game process for each set of users.

  Next, details of the shooting preparation process in step S21 in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

  When the shooting preparation process is started, the shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a shooting mode selection screen for selecting a shooting mode on the shooting monitor 35 in step S41.

  Here, as described above, the shooting mode is a pattern in which various parameters such as the brightness of illumination at the time of shooting, background, or image processing for a shot image are pre-patterned. By selecting from a plurality of modes, settings relating to shooting can be easily performed. In the present invention, the background color and the background gradation can be changed in accordance with the shooting mode.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a gradation pattern depending on the shooting mode.

  In the example shown in FIG. 15, the first line shows items, the second line shows the gradation of the shooting mode “Mode A”, the third line shows the gradation of the shooting mode “Mode B”, The fourth line shows the gradation of the photographing mode “Mode C”. The first row item includes an item “shooting mode” in the first column, an item “atmosphere” in the second column, an item “background color candidate” in the third column, and a fourth column. Items that are “gradation patterns” are shown.

  Specifically, the item “shooting mode” in the first column indicates the above-described shooting mode, and the item “atmosphere” in the second column is assigned in advance corresponding to the “shooting mode”. The item indicating the image and “background color candidate” in the third column indicates a background color candidate corresponding to the “atmosphere” corresponding to the “atmosphere”, and is the “gradation pattern” in the fourth column. The item corresponds to the “atmosphere” and indicates gradation candidates that match the “atmosphere”.

  In the example shown in FIG. 15, “Mode A” in the first column from the left and second from the top indicates that the shooting mode is “Mode A”. The “beautiful shape” in the second column from the left and the second item from the top indicates that the atmosphere is “beautiful”. Further, “black”, “brown”, “gold”, and “silver” in the third row from the left and the second from the top have background color candidates “black”, “brown”, “gold”, and “ Indicates "Silver". Further, “radial” and “spiral” in the fourth column from the left and the second from the top indicate that the gradation candidates are “radial” and “spiral”.

  That is, in the example shown in FIG. 15, the second line has an atmosphere in which the shooting mode “Mode A” is “Beautiful”, and therefore, “Black”, “Brown”, “ Candidates are background colors of “gold” and “silver” and gradations of “radial” and “spiral”.

  In the example shown in FIG. 15, “Mode B” in the first column from the left and the third from the top indicates that the shooting mode is “Mode B”. In addition, “cute” in the second column from the left and the third from the top indicates that the atmosphere is “cute”. Furthermore, “pink”, “yellow”, “white”, and “green” in the third column from the left and the third from the top are background color candidates “pink”, “yellow”, “white”, and “ Indicates “green”. Further, “vertical stripes” and “horizontal stripes” in the fourth column from the left and the third from the top indicate that the gradation candidates are “vertical stripes” and “horizontal stripes”.

  That is, in the example shown in FIG. 15, the third line has an atmosphere in which the shooting mode “Mode B” is “cute”, so “pink”, “yellow”, “ The background color that is “white” and “green” and the gradation that is “vertical stripes” and “horizontal stripes” are shown as candidates.

  In the example shown in FIG. 15, the “mode C” in the first column from the left and the fourth from the top indicates that the shooting mode is “mode C”. In addition, “sexy” in the second column from the left and the fourth from the top indicates that the atmosphere is “sexy”. Furthermore, “red”, “black”, “blue”, and “green” in the third column from the left and the fourth from the top are background color candidates “red”, “black”, “blue”, and “ Indicates “green”. The fourth column from the left and the fourth from the top “lower right diagonal” and “upper right diagonal” indicate that the gradation candidates are “lower right diagonal” and “upper right diagonal”.

  That is, in the example shown in FIG. 15, the fourth line has an atmosphere in which the shooting mode “Mode C” is “sexy”, so “red”, “black”, “ A background color of “blue” and “green” and a gradation of “lower right diagonal” and “upper right diagonal” are shown as candidates.

  In addition, according to these modes, the illumination control unit 202 may change the amount of light irradiated to the user by controlling light emission, power storage, and the like of the illumination unit 31. For example, since the imaging mode that is “Mode A” is an atmosphere that is “beautiful”, the amount of light to be irradiated is increased according to the atmosphere, or the imaging mode that is “Mode C” is “sexy”. Therefore, the amount of light to be irradiated is reduced according to the atmosphere.

  A screen for selecting each of these shooting modes (atmosphere), background color (background color candidates), and gradation (gradation pattern) is displayed on the display of the shooting monitor 35, so that the user can select the shooting mode and background. Each of color and gradation (gradation pattern) is selected. First, a shooting mode selection screen that allows the user to select a shooting mode will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display of the photographing monitor 35 that displays the photographing mode selection screen.

  As shown in FIG. 16, on the display of the photographing monitor 35, as a photographing mode selection screen, for example, “Mode A looks beautiful”, “Mode B looks pretty”, and “Mode C sexy” “I can see it.” Is displayed. In the upper right of the screen, a remaining time 301 that is “remaining time 30 seconds” is displayed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 16, when the user selects the shooting mode, the “mode A beautiful image”, “mode B” that is displayed on the shooting mode selection screen, and “mode B” will appear cute within 30 seconds. Touching the desired shooting mode (by pressing the touch panel 205) of “Mode C and sexy” will select the shooting mode.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 14, for example, in step S <b> 41, the shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a shooting mode selection screen (FIG. 16) on the shooting monitor 35.

  In step S42, the mode control unit 222 accepts selection of a shooting mode. For example, in step S42, the mode control unit 222 reads “Mode A looks beautiful”, “Mode B looks cute” on the shooting mode selection screen (FIG. 16) displayed on the display of the shooting monitor 35. In “Mode C Sexy”, the user selects a shooting mode by touching an area indicating a desired shooting mode (by pressing the touch panel 205).

  In step S43, the mode control unit 222 determines whether a shooting mode is selected. For example, in step S43, the mode control unit 222 reads “Mode A looks beautiful”, “Mode B looks cute” on the shooting mode selection screen (FIG. 16) displayed on the display of the shooting monitor 35. In “Mode C Sexy”, it is determined whether or not the user touches an area indicating a desired shooting mode (touch panel 205 is pressed).

  If it is determined in step S43 that the shooting mode is not selected, the process returns to step S42 and waits until it is determined that the shooting mode is selected.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S43 that the shooting mode is selected, the process proceeds to step S44, and the shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a background color selection screen for selecting the first background color on the shooting monitor 35. For example, the mode control unit 222 displays “Mode A beautiful picture”, “Mode B pretty picture”, and “Mode C” on the photographing mode selection screen (FIG. 16) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. When the user touches the area indicating the shooting mode “Mode B is cute” (when touch panel 205 is pressed), the “Mode B is cute” is displayed. Shooting mode information indicating that a certain shooting mode is selected is supplied to the shooting preparation control unit 221. The shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a background color selection screen for selecting the first background color on the shooting monitor 35 based on the shooting mode information supplied from the mode control unit 222.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of the photographing monitor 35 that displays a background color selection screen for selecting the first background color.

  As shown in FIG. 17, on the display of the photographing monitor 35, for example, the background color display area 311, background color 312-1 to background color 312-4 are displayed in the background color display area 311. A cursor 313 for selecting a background color is also displayed. In the background color display area 311, the first background color 314-1 and the second background color 314-2, which are the determined background colors, and the button 315 and the next button for returning to the previous screen are displayed. A button 316 that is a button for proceeding to the screen is displayed. Furthermore, the remaining time 301 which is "remaining time 25 seconds" is displayed on the lower right of the screen.

  In the example shown in FIG. 17, when “Mode B is cute” is selected on the shooting mode selection screen (FIG. 16), as described with reference to FIG. For each of the colors 312-4, the background color candidates corresponding to the mode B are “pink” background color 312-1, “yellow” background color 312-2, and “white” background color 312. -3 and “green” background color 312-4 are displayed.

  As described above, the background colors 312-1 to 312-4 for selecting the first background color are displayed in a limited number to some extent depending on the shooting mode. Therefore, the background color 312- displayed on the shooting monitor 35 is displayed. Each of the 1 to background colors 312-4 can be displayed larger as the number is limited. As a result, each of the background color 312-1 to background color 312-4 is easy to see for the user, and when the area indicating the desired background color is touched (the touch panel 205 is pressed), it is surely selected without making a mistake. can do.

  In the example shown in FIG. 17, when the user selects the first background color, the background color 312-1 to the background color 312-4 displayed on the background color selection screen within 25 seconds, By selecting a desired background color with the cursor 313 (by pressing the touch panel 205), the first background color is selected.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 14, in step S45, the background color control unit 223 accepts the selection of the first background color. For example, in step S45, the background color control unit 223 determines that the user desires among the background colors 312-1 to 312-4 on the background color selection screen (FIG. 17) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. The background color of the first color is selected by touching the area indicating the background color (pressing the touch panel 205) and moving the cursor 313 to the desired background color.

  In step S46, the background color control unit 223 determines whether or not the first background color has been selected. For example, in step S46, the background color control unit 223 determines that the user desires among the background colors 312-1 to 312-4 on the background color selection screen (FIG. 17) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. By touching the area indicating the background color (by pressing the touch panel 205), moving the cursor 313 to the desired background color, and determining whether the button 316 has been touched (the touch panel 205 has been pressed), It is determined whether or not the first background color has been selected.

  If it is determined in step S46 that the first background color is not selected, the process returns to step S45 and waits until it is determined that the first background color is selected.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S46 that the first background color has been selected, the process proceeds to step S47, where the background color control unit 223 accepts the selection of the second background color.

  If it is determined that the first background color has been selected, the shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a background color selection screen for selecting the second background color on the shooting monitor 35. For example, the background color control unit 223 displays a background color 312-1 that is “pink”, a background color 312-2 that is “yellow” on the background color selection screen (FIG. 17) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35, The background color 312-1 that is “pink” is selected from the background color 312-3 that is “white” and the background color 312-4 that is “green”, and the button 316 is touched (the touch panel 205 is pressed). The background color information indicating that the background color of “pink” is selected is supplied to the imaging preparation control unit 221. The shooting preparation control unit 221 causes the shooting monitor 35 to display a background color selection screen for selecting the second background color based on the background color information supplied from the background color control unit 223.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of the photographing monitor 35 that displays a background color selection screen for selecting the second background color.

  In the example shown in FIG. 18, the same parts as those shown in FIG. 17 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted (as appropriate).

  In the example shown in FIG. 18, when “Mode B Cute” is selected on the shooting mode selection screen (FIG. 16), each of the background color 312-1 to background color 312-4 includes, for example, A background color 312-1 that is “pink”, a background color 312-2 that is “yellow”, a background color 312-3 that is “white”, and a background color 312-4 that is “green” are displayed. Become. Further, when the background color 312-1 which is “pink” is selected on the background color selection screen (FIG. 17) for selecting the first background color and the button 316 is touched (the touch panel 205 is pressed). In the background color 312-1 which is “pink”, a mark “x” is displayed so as not to select the same color.

  In the example shown in FIG. 18, when the user selects the second background color, the background color 312-1 to the background color 312-4 displayed on the background color selection screen within 20 seconds, By selecting a desired background color other than the background color selected as the first color with the cursor 313 (pressing the touch panel 205) and selecting the second background color 314-2 (by pressing the touch panel 205) , Select the background color.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 14, for example, the background color control unit 223 uses the background color 312-1 to the background color 312-4 on the background color selection screen (FIG. 18) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. When the person touches the area indicating the desired background color (presses the touch panel 205), moves the cursor 313 to the desired background color, and touches the button 316 (by pressing the touch panel 205), the second color The background color is selected.

  In step S48, the background color control unit 223 determines whether the second background color has been selected. For example, in step S48, the background color control unit 223 determines that the user desires among the background colors 312-1 to 312-4 on the background color selection screen (FIG. 18) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. By touching the area indicating the background color (by pressing the touch panel 205), moving the cursor 313 to the desired background color, and determining whether the button 316 has been touched (the touch panel 205 has been pressed), It is determined whether the second background color has been selected.

  If it is determined in step S48 that the second background color is not selected, the process returns to step S47 and waits until it is determined that the second background color is selected.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S48 that the second background color has been selected, the process proceeds to step S49, and the photographing preparation control unit 221 displays a gradation pattern selection screen for selecting a gradation on the photographing monitor 35. For example, the background color control unit 223 selects the background color 312-1 that is “pink” as the first background color 314-1, and the background color that is “yellow” as the second background color 314-2. When 312-2 is selected and the user touches the button 316 on the background color selection screen (FIG. 18) (touch panel 205 is pressed), at least information indicating the background color of the second color which is “yellow” is included. Background color information (for example, background color information including the first background color “pink” and the second background color “yellow”) may be supplied to the imaging preparation control unit 221. The shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a gradation pattern selection screen on the shooting monitor 35 based on the background color information supplied from the background color control unit 223.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of the photographing monitor 35 that displays a gradation pattern selection screen.

  As shown in FIG. 19, the gradation monitor 322-1 and the gradation pattern 322-2 are displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35 as a gradation pattern selection screen, for example, in the gradation pattern display area 321. A cursor 323 for selecting a gradation pattern is also displayed. The gradation pattern display area 321 displays a gradation pattern 324 that is the determined gradation pattern, a button 315 that is a button for returning to the previous screen, and a button 316 that is a button for proceeding to the next screen. . Further, a remaining time 301 that is “remaining time 15 seconds” is displayed at the lower right of the screen.

  In the example shown in FIG. 19, for example, gradation pattern 322-1 that is “vertical stripe” and gradation pattern 322-2 that is “horizontal stripe” are displayed in gradation pattern 322-1 and gradation pattern 322-2, respectively. The

  In the example shown in FIG. 19, when the user selects a gradation pattern, the gradation pattern 322-1 which is “vertical stripes” and the gradation which is “horizontal stripes” displayed on the gradation pattern selection screen within 15 seconds. By touching a region indicating the desired gradation pattern in the pattern 322-2 (by pressing the touch panel 205), the gradation pattern is selected.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 14, in step S50, the pattern control unit 224 receives selection of a gradation pattern. For example, the pattern control unit 224 indicates a desired gradation pattern among gradation patterns “vertical stripes” and “horizontal stripes” on the gradation pattern selection screen (FIG. 19) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. By touching the area (by pressing the touch panel 205), a gradation pattern is selected.

  In step S51, the pattern control unit 224 determines whether or not a gradation pattern has been selected. For example, in step S51, the pattern control unit 224 determines the desired pattern among the gradation patterns that are “vertical stripes” and “horizontal stripes” on the gradation pattern selection screen (FIG. 19) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. It is determined whether or not an area showing a gradation pattern is touched (touch panel 205 is pressed).

  If it is determined in step S51 that the gradation pattern is not selected, the process returns to step S50 and waits until it is determined that the gradation pattern is selected.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S51 that the gradation pattern has been selected, the process proceeds to step S52, where the photographing preparation control unit 221 confirms (previews) the gradation pattern based on the first and second background colors. Is displayed on the photographing monitor 35.

  For example, the pattern control unit 224 uses the gradation pattern that is “vertical stripes” and “horizontal stripes” on the gradation pattern selection screen (FIG. 19) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. When the pattern is touched (touch panel 205 is pressed) and the button 316 is touched (touch panel 205 is pressed), gradation pattern information indicating that a gradation pattern of “horizontal stripes” has been selected is acquired by the shooting preparation control unit. 221 is supplied. The shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a gradation confirmation screen on the shooting monitor 35 based on the background color information supplied from the background color control unit 223 and the gradation pattern information supplied from the pattern control unit 224.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of the photographing monitor 35 that displays a gradation confirmation screen.

  In the example shown in FIG. 20, the gradation confirmation display area 331 displays the first and second background colors and the gradation 332 determined by the gradation pattern. In the gradation confirmation display area 331, a button 315 that is a button for returning to the previous screen and a button 333 that is a button for causing the gradation 332 to determine the gradation of the background image are displayed. Furthermore, the remaining time 301 which is “remaining time 10 seconds” is displayed on the lower right of the screen.

  In the example shown in FIG. 20, “Mode B is cute” is selected on the shooting mode selection screen (FIG. 16), and “pink” is selected as the first background color 314-1 on the background color selection screen (FIG. 17). "Background color 312-1" is selected, the background color 312-2 of "yellow" is selected as the second background color 314-2 of the background color selection screen (FIG. 18), and the gradation pattern selection screen ( When the gradation pattern of “horizontal stripes” in FIG. 19) is selected, gradation of “horizontal stripes” of “pink” and “yellow” is displayed in the gradation 332.

  In the example shown in FIG. 20, when determining the gradation, the user touches the button 333 among the buttons 315 and 333 displayed on the gradation confirmation screen within 10 seconds (presses the touch panel 205. Thus, the gradation displayed on the gradation 332 is determined.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 14, in step S <b> 53, the shooting preparation control unit 221 determines whether gradation has been determined. For example, in step S53, the shooting preparation control unit 221 touches the button 333 among the buttons 315 and 333 on the gradation confirmation screen (FIG. 20) displayed on the display of the shooting monitor 35 (the touch panel 205 is pressed). Whether or not) is determined.

  If it is determined in step S53 that the gradation pattern has not been determined, the process returns to step S53 and waits until it is determined that the gradation pattern has been determined.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S53 that the gradation pattern has been determined, the process proceeds to step S54, where the background information storage unit 225 supplies the first color and the second color selected by the user supplied from the shooting preparation control unit 221. The background information, which is information indicating the background color and the gradation pattern, is stored, the shooting preparation process is terminated, the process is returned to step S21 in FIG. 13, and the processes after step S22 are executed.

  For example, if the shooting preparation control unit 221 determines that the gradation pattern has been determined, the shooting mode information supplied from the mode control unit 222 and indicating “mode A is beautiful” supplied from the background color control unit 223. Based on the background color information of the first color indicating “pink”, the background color information of the second color indicating “yellow”, and the gradation pattern information indicating “horizontal stripes” supplied from the pattern control unit 224 In the information storage unit 225, as background information, shooting mode information indicating “mode A is beautiful”, background color information of the first color indicating “pink”, background color information of the second color indicating “yellow”, and The gradation pattern information indicating “horizontal stripes” is stored.

  As described above, since the user can create a background image by combining the background color (first and second background colors) and the gradation pattern, instead of the background image prepared in advance, the background image For example, even a user who uses the same photo sticker creating apparatus 1 multiple times takes a long time to get bored because there are many background image variations. Therefore, a purchaser (for example, a game center manager) of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can expect a stable income continuously.

  Also, by narrowing down the background color and gradation pattern in advance corresponding to the shooting mode, a background image (background color and gradation pattern) close to the user's request is presented even if the type of background image increases. Therefore, for example, even when the background image has to be determined within a predetermined time, the user can quickly select and determine the desired background image.

  Next, details of the photographing process in step S22 of FIG. 13 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S61, the setting information acquisition processing unit 232 acquires and acquires setting information, which is information for displaying the real-time live view image stored in the play information storage unit 164, controlled by the shooting control unit 231. The setting information is supplied to the background image processing unit 234. The setting information acquisition processing unit 232 is controlled by the shooting control unit 231 to acquire background information such as background color information and gradation pattern information stored in the background information storage unit 225, and uses the acquired background information as background. This is supplied to the image processing unit 234.

  For example, the setting information acquisition processing unit 232 is controlled by the shooting control unit 231 and acquires various setting information generated during execution (during play) of the photo sticker creation game stored in the play information storage unit 164. From the background information stored in the background information storage unit 225, the first background color “pink”, the second background color information “yellow”, and the gradation pattern information “horizontal stripes” are read out. The acquired information is supplied to the background image processing unit 234.

  In step S62, the captured image acquisition processing unit 233 is controlled by the imaging control unit 231, performs captured image acquisition processing, captures the captured image captured by the CCD camera 33 of the imaging unit 172 as a still image, and captures captured image data. get. The captured image acquisition processing unit 233 supplies the acquired captured image data to the background image processing unit 234.

  In step S <b> 63, the background image processing unit 234 performs processing for the background image based on the setting information and background information supplied from the setting information acquisition processing unit 232 and the captured image data supplied from the captured image acquisition processing unit 233. Predetermined image processing is performed. The background image processing unit 234 supplies the captured image data subjected to the background image processing to the real-time live view image display processing unit 235.

  For example, in step S63, the background image processing unit 234 performs chroma key composition on the captured image data supplied from the captured image acquisition processing unit 233. That is, the background image processing unit 234 supplies the first background color “pink” and the second background color “yellow” and the gradation pattern “horizontal stripes” supplied from the setting information acquisition processing unit 232. Based on the above, among the captured image data supplied from the captured image acquisition processing unit 233, the background key image data is changed to a gradation in which “pink” and “yellow” are arranged in horizontal stripes. . The background image processing unit 234 supplies the real-time live view image display processing unit 235 with the captured image data subjected to chroma key composition for changing the background image to a gradation in which “pink” and “yellow” are arranged in horizontal stripes.

  Here, Chroma-key processing is a method of electronic composition of image data, where an image is shot against a background of a specific color, and another image is superimposed on the background of the shot image. Perform synthesis. For example, with chroma key processing, only a single color such as a background curtain is extracted and extracted, and instead of the extracted single color, various colors and landscape images are combined to create a separate space. Photo stickers can be provided. More specifically, the background image processing unit 234 captures a background image of the captured image data acquired by the captured image processing unit 233 by capturing a model that is a subject with a background curtain of a specific color as a background. The chroma key composition is performed to change the image data of the background curtain of a specific color to the gradation image data selected by the user in the shooting preparation process (the process of step S21).

  In step S64, the real-time live view image display processing unit 235 uses the captured image data subjected to the background image processing supplied from the background image processing unit 234 via the display control unit 212 in real time as a real-time live view image. It is displayed on the live view monitor 34. For example, in step S64, the real-time live view image display processing unit 235 arranges the background image supplied from the background image processing unit 234 via the display control unit 212 with “pink” and “yellow” arranged in horizontal stripes. The captured image data subjected to the chroma key composition for changing to the gradation is displayed on the real-time live view monitor 34 as a real-time live view image.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of the real-time live view monitor 34 that displays a real-time live view image.

  FIG. 22A shows a display of the real-time live view monitor 34 that displays captured image data as a real-time live view image before performing background image processing (processing in step S63), and FIG. 22B shows background image processing (processing in step S63). The display of the real-time live view monitor 34 displayed as a real-time live view image after performing () is shown.

  In the example shown in FIG. 22A, two models as subjects are photographed, but since the background image processing is not performed, the background image is a normal background (for example, a background curtain).

  On the other hand, in the example shown in FIG. 22B, two models as subjects are photographed, but the background image of the two models has a gradation of vertical stripes of two colors (for example, “pink” and “yellow”). ing. This is because, for example, the first image of “pink” and the second color of “yellow” and the gradation pattern of “horizontal stripes” are prepared for the background image (step S21). Since the background image processing that changes to the gradation selected by the user in (Processing) is performed, the background image of the two models that are the subjects is the background of the gradation in which “pink” and yellow are arranged in horizontal stripes ing.

  In this way, the user can create a variety of gradations as a background image by combining the background color and the gradation pattern, so a highly original photo sticker can be created, and the user's Satisfaction can be improved.

  In the example described above, in the shooting preparation process (the process of step S21), the user uses the first background color “pink”, the second background color “yellow”, and “horizontal stripes”. Although a case where a certain gradation pattern is selected has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and the background color and the gradation pattern can be combined in various patterns. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 23 and FIG. 24, an example of gradation in which other background colors and gradation patterns are combined will be described.

  FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating another example of the display of the real-time live view monitor 34 that displays a real-time live view image.

  FIG. 23A shows a display of the real-time live view monitor 34 that displays captured image data before performing background image processing (processing in step S63) as a real-time live view image, and FIG. 23B shows background image processing (processing in step S63). The display of the real-time live view monitor 34 displayed as a real-time live view image after performing () is shown.

  In the example shown in FIG. 23A, two models as subjects are photographed, but since background image processing is not performed, the background image is a normal background (for example, a background curtain).

  On the other hand, in the example shown in FIG. 23B, two models as subjects are photographed, but the background image of the two models has a radial gradation of two colors (for example, “black” and “brown”). ing. This is because, for example, the first image color of “black” and the second color of “brown” and the gradation pattern of “radial” are prepared for the background image (step S21). Since the background image processing to change the gradation selected by the user in (Processing) is performed, the background image of the two models that are the subjects is the background of the gradation in which “black” and brown are radially arranged ing.

  FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating another example of the display of the real-time live view monitor 34 that displays a real-time live view image.

  FIG. 24A shows a display of the real-time live view monitor 34 that displays the captured image data before performing the background image processing (the processing of step S63) as a real-time live view image, and FIG. 24B shows the background image processing (the processing of step S63). The display of the real-time live view monitor 34 displayed as a real-time live view image after performing () is shown.

  In the example shown in FIG. 24A, two models as subjects are photographed, but since background image processing is not performed, the background image is a normal background (for example, a background curtain).

  On the other hand, in the example shown in FIG. 24B, two models as subjects are photographed, but the background images of the two models are gradations of the lower right diagonal line of two colors (for example, “red” and “black”). It has become. This is because, for example, the first background color that is “red” and the second background color that is “black” and the gradation pattern that is “lower right diagonal” are prepared for the background image (step S21). The background image processing to change to the gradation selected by the user in the above processing) is performed, so the background images of the two models that are the subjects are the gradations in which “red” and black are colored in the lower right diagonal. It is a background.

  As described above, the user can select a desired gradation from a combination of a plurality of background colors and gradation patterns. By selecting different gradations from the combinations, the same photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can be used any number of times without getting bored. As a result, the purchaser of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 (for example, the manager of the game center) can expect a stable income continuously.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 21, in step S65, the shooting control unit 231 determines whether to perform shooting based on a user instruction or the like. If it is determined not to perform shooting, the process returns to step S62. The process described above is repeated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S65 that the user has input a shooting instruction based on a GUI image or the like and execution is performed, the process proceeds to step S66, and the captured image acquisition processing unit 233 controls the shooting control unit 231. Be prepared for shooting. For example, the photographed image acquisition processing unit 233 controls the display control unit 203 of the photographing unit 172 to display a message for prompting the user to pose and a countdown indicator for notifying the user of the photographing timing. Or the like, or the audio output unit 201 is controlled to output BGM or a voice message from the audio output unit 38, or the illumination control unit 202 is controlled to be stored in the illumination unit 31.

  Then, the photographed image acquisition processing unit 233 is controlled by the photography control unit 231, performs a photographed image acquisition process in step S <b> 67, captures the captured image captured by the CCD camera 33 of the photographing unit 172 as a still image, and captures the captured image. Get the data. That is, the photographed image acquisition processing unit 233 controls the photographing unit 172 to notify the user of the photographing timing with sound or an image at a predetermined timing corresponding to the photographing timing, and causes the lighting unit 31 to emit light. Then, the captured image acquisition processing unit 233 captures the captured image at the capturing timing as a still image and keeps the captured image as the captured image, and captures image data corresponding to the captured image at the capturing timing as captured image data. 231 to be held.

  In step S <b> 68, the background image processing unit 234 is controlled by the shooting control unit 231 and performs predetermined image processing on the background image on the shot image (shooted image data) acquired by the shot image acquisition processing unit 233. The background image processing unit 234 supplies the captured image data on which the background image processing has been performed to the preview image display control unit 236.

  For example, in step S68, the background image processing unit 234 performs chroma key composition on the captured image data supplied from the captured image acquisition processing unit 233. That is, the background image processing unit 234 supplies the first background color “pink” and the second background color “yellow” and the gradation pattern “horizontal stripes” supplied from the setting information acquisition processing unit 232. Based on the above, among the captured image data supplied from the captured image acquisition processing unit 233, the background key image data is changed to a gradation in which “pink” and “yellow” are arranged in horizontal stripes. . The background image processing unit 234 supplies the preview image display control unit 236 with captured image data that has been subjected to chroma key composition for changing the background image to a gradation in which “pink” and “yellow” are arranged in horizontal stripes.

  In other words, the background image processing unit 234 uses the photographic image data supplied from the photographic image acquisition processing unit 233 to obtain image data of a specific color as a background image in the photographic preparation process (the process of step S21). Performs chroma key composition to change to the selected gradation image data.

  When the background image processing is completed, the preview image display processing unit 236 is controlled by the shooting control unit 231 through the display control unit 203 in step S69 to perform preview image display processing. That is, the preview image display processing unit 236 acquires captured image data subjected to background image processing from the background image processing unit 234, and displays the acquired captured image on the capturing monitor 35 together with the GUI image as a preview image.

  For example, in step S69, the preview image display processing unit 236 supplies the background image supplied from the background image processing unit 234 via the display control unit 203 with “pink” and “yellow” arranged in horizontal stripes. The captured image data subjected to the chroma key composition to be changed to gradation is displayed as a preview image on the photographing monitor 35 together with the GUI image.

  In step S <b> 70, the shooting control unit 231 determines whether to save a shot image. For example, in step S70, the shooting control unit 231 instructs the user whether to edit the shot image displayed as a preview on the shooting monitor 35 and save it for printing. It is determined whether or not the captured image is to be saved by determining whether or not the input is performed (using the touch panel 205) in accordance with the GUI image (displayed together with the image).

  If it is determined in step S70 that the captured image is to be stored, the process proceeds to step S71, and the image storage processing unit 237 performs image storage processing. That is, the image storage processing unit 237 acquires the captured image data subjected to the background image processing instructed to be stored by the user from the imaging control unit 231, and sends it to the image data holding unit 163 via the bus 151. Supply and hold.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S70 that the captured image is not stored, the process proceeds to step S72, and the image storage processing unit 237 performs an image erasing process. That is, the image storage processing unit 237 acquires the captured image data subjected to the background image processing instructed not to be stored by the user from the imaging control unit 231 and deletes it.

  In step S73, the imaging control unit 231 determines whether or not to end the imaging operation. If it is determined that the imaging operation does not end, the process returns to step S61 and the above-described processing is repeated. On the other hand, if, in step S73, for example, it is determined that the entire photographing process is completed, a predetermined time has elapsed, or an end instruction is input by the user, the photographing operation is terminated. In step S231, the photographing process ends, the process returns to step S22 in FIG. 13, and the processes after step S23 are executed.

  The photographing process is performed as described above. That is, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 performs background image processing on both the captured image (real-time live view image) and the captured image (including the preview image) obtained in the imaging process, and the background selected by the user. The background image is changed to a gradation based on a combination of a color and a gradation pattern. In this way, it is possible not only to create background images of various variations, but also to obtain an optimal background image for the user while viewing the background image of the real-time live view image displayed on the real-time live view monitor 34. Can be created while matching in real time.

  In addition, the user obtains, as a captured image, an image similar to that confirmed with the real-time live view image displayed on the real-time live view monitor 34 and the preview image displayed on the real-time live view monitor 34 or the shooting monitor 35. be able to.

  As a result, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 provides a photo sticker of a background image with gradations of various variations, and a user can use a real-time live view image or a preview image (a real-time live view image or a preview image having the same image as the photographed image). Since the photographing work can be performed while confirming with, it is possible to improve the satisfaction of the user, make the user want to use it again, and improve the profit rate.

  Furthermore, in addition to the photo creation game provided by the photo sticker creation device 1 so far, the combination of the background color and the gradation pattern increases the play of creating a background image, which further improves amusement. Can play a photo making game with more fun than ever.

  In addition, in the shooting preparation process (step S21), which is the process performed before the shooting process (step S22), the user selects the background color and gradation. You can make those choices calmly, without panic.

  In the above-described example, in the shooting preparation process (the process of step S21), the user selects a background color and a gradation pattern, and the shooting process (in step S22) is performed based on the selected background color and the gradation pattern. In the processing, the background image processing is described as being performed on the photographed image. However, in the photographing processing (the processing in step S102 in FIG. 25 described later), the user selects a background color and a gradation pattern, and Based on the selected background color and gradation pattern, background image processing may be performed on the captured image.

  That is, before shooting, not only the user selects the background color and gradation pattern, but also the user selects the background color and gradation pattern during shooting (for example, every shooting). It may be. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 25 to FIG. 31, a process for allowing the user to select a background color and a gradation during shooting will be described.

  In the following, in order to explain the flow of processing that allows the user to select a background color and gradation during shooting, the flow of main processing executed by the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 will be described. Since this is the same as the game management process of FIG. 12 described above, description thereof is omitted.

  First, the details of the photo sticker creation game process in step S5 of FIG. 12 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the photo sticker creation game process is started, the shooting preparation processing unit 183 controls each unit of the shooting unit 172 such as the shooting monitor 35 and performs shooting preparation processing such as settings related to shooting in step S101. For example, the shooting preparation processing unit 183 displays a GUI image for selecting a shooting mode on the shooting monitor 35 and allows the user to select a shooting mode.

  When shooting preparation processing such as selection of the shooting mode is completed, the shooting processing unit 184 advances the processing to step S102, controls each unit of the shooting unit 172 such as the CCD camera 33, performs shooting processing, and subjects (users). Take a photo of The user performs a shooting operation by taking a pose or giving a shooting timing instruction for the shooting process, and causes the shooting unit 172 to generate a plurality of shot images. Details of the photographing process will be described later.

  Each of the processes in steps S103 to S109 is the same as each of the processes in steps S23 to S29 of FIG.

  Next, details of the photographing process in step S102 of FIG. 25 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  When the photographing process is started, in step S121, the photographing preparation control unit 221 displays a message for starting the selection of the gradation pattern on the photographing monitor 35. For example, the shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a message “Please select a gradation pattern” on the shooting monitor 35.

  In step S122, the shooting preparation control unit 221 causes the shooting monitor 35 to display a background color selection screen for selecting a background color. For example, in step S122, the shooting preparation control unit 221 displays the first background color selection screen on the shooting monitor 35 when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of displaying the gradation pattern selection message. Let

  FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of the photographing monitor 35 that displays a background color selection screen for selecting the first background color.

  As shown in FIG. 28, on the display of the photographing monitor 35, for example, the background color display area 311, background color 312-1 to background color 312-9 are displayed in the background color display area 311. A cursor 313 for selecting a background color is also displayed. Further, a right scroll button 317 and a down scroll button 318 which are buttons for displaying a background color not displayed in the background color display area 311 are also displayed. Further, in the background color display area 311, the first background color 314-1 and the second background color 314-2 which are the determined background colors, the button 315 which is a button for returning to the previous screen, and the next A button 316 that is a button for proceeding to the screen is displayed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 28, the background color 312-1 to the background color 312-9 include, for example, a background color 312-1 that is “black”, a background color 312-2 that is “yellow”, and “orange”. "Background color 312-3", "Red" background color 312-4, "Green" background color 312-5, "Blue" background color 312-6, "Background color" 312 −7, a background color 312-8 of “purple” and a background color 312-9 of “white” are displayed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 28, when the user selects the first background color, the user selects a desired background color from the background colors 312-1 to 312-9 displayed on the background color selection screen. By selecting with the cursor 313 (by pressing the touch panel 205), the first background color is selected.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 26, in step S123, the background color control unit 223 accepts selection of the first background color. For example, in step S123, the background color control unit 223 determines that the user desires among the background colors 312-1 to 312-9 on the background color selection screen (FIG. 28) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. The background color of the first color is selected by touching the area indicating the background color (pressing the touch panel 205) and moving the cursor 313 to the desired background color.

  In step S124, the background color control unit 223 determines whether or not the first background color has been selected. For example, in step S124, the background color control unit 223 determines that the user desires among the background colors 312-1 to 312-9 on the background color selection screen (FIG. 28) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. By touching the area indicating the background color (by pressing the touch panel 205), moving the cursor 313 to the desired background color, and determining whether the button 316 has been touched (the touch panel 205 has been pressed), It is determined whether or not the first background color has been selected.

  If it is determined in step S124 that the first background color is not selected, the process returns to step S123 and waits until it is determined that the first background color is selected.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S124 that the first background color has been selected, the process proceeds to step S125, and the background color control unit 223 accepts the selection of the second background color.

  If it is determined that the first background color has been selected, the shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a background color selection screen for selecting the second background color on the shooting monitor 35. For example, the background color control unit 223 includes a background color 312-1 that is “black” and a background color 312-2 that is “yellow” on the background color selection screen (FIG. 28) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. "Orange" background color 312-3, "Red" background color 312-4, "Green" background color 312-5, "Blue" background color 312-6, "Indigo" background color The background color 312-1 that is “black” is selected from among the color 312-7, the background color 312-8 that is “purple”, and the background color 312-9 that is “white”, and the button 316 is touched. When the touch panel 205 is pressed, background color information indicating that the background color of “black” is selected is supplied to the shooting preparation control unit 221. The shooting preparation control unit 221 causes the shooting monitor 35 to display a background color selection screen for selecting the second background color based on the background color information supplied from the background color control unit 223.

  FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of the photographing monitor 35 that displays a background color selection screen for selecting the second background color.

  In the example shown in FIG. 29, the same parts as those shown in FIG. 28 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted (as appropriate).

  In the example shown in FIG. 29, for example, the background color 312-1 to the background color 312-9 include, for example, a “black” background color 312-1, a “yellow” background color 312-2, and an “orange”. "Background color 312-3", "Red" background color 312-4, "Green" background color 312-5, "Blue" background color 312-6, "Background color" 312 −7, a background color 312-8 of “purple” and a background color 312-9 of “white” are displayed. Further, when the background color 312-1 that is “black” is selected on the background color selection screen (FIG. 28) for selecting the first background color, the background color 312-1 that is “black” In order not to select the same color, a mark “×” is displayed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 29, when the user selects the second background color, the user is selected as the first color among the background colors 312-1 to 312-9 displayed on the background color selection screen. Select a desired background color other than the selected background color with the cursor 313 (press the touch panel 205) and select the second background color 314-2 (by pressing the touch panel 205) to select the background color Will do.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 26, for example, the background color control unit 223 uses the background color 312-1 to the background color 312-9 on the background color selection screen (FIG. 29) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. The person touches the area indicating the desired background color (presses the touch panel 205), moves the cursor 313 to the desired background color, and touches the second background color 314-2 (presses the touch panel 205). The second background color is selected.

  In step S126, the background color control unit 223 determines whether the second background color has been selected. For example, in step S126, the background color control unit 223 determines that the user desires among the background colors 312-1 to 312-9 on the background color selection screen (FIG. 29) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. By touching the area indicating the background color (pressing the touch panel 205), moving the cursor 313 to the desired background color, and touching the button 316 (whether the touch panel 205 is pressed), It is determined whether the second background color has been selected.

  If it is determined in step S126 that the second background color is not selected, the process returns to step S125 and waits until it is determined that the second background color is selected.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S126 that the second background color has been selected, the process proceeds to step S127, and the photographing preparation control unit 221 displays a gradation pattern selection screen for selecting a gradation on the photographing monitor 35. For example, the background color control unit 223 selects the background color 312-1 that is “black” as the first background color 314-1, and the background color that is “green” as the second background color 314-2. When 312-5 is selected and the user touches the button 316 on the background color selection screen (FIG. 29) (the touch panel 205 is pressed), at least information indicating the second background color which is “green” is included. Background color information (for example, background color information including the background color of the first color that is “black” and the background color of the second color that is “green”) may be supplied to the imaging preparation control unit 221. The shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a gradation pattern selection screen on the shooting monitor 35 based on the background color information supplied from the background color control unit 223.

  FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of the photographing monitor 35 that displays a gradation pattern selection screen.

  As shown in FIG. 30, the gradation monitor 322-1 to the gradation pattern 322-9 are displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35 as a gradation pattern selection screen, for example, in the gradation pattern display area 321. A cursor 323 for selecting a gradation pattern is also displayed. Further, a right scroll button 325 and a down scroll button 326 which are buttons for displaying a gradation pattern not displayed in the gradation pattern display area 321 are also displayed. Further, the gradation pattern display area 321 displays a gradation pattern 324 that is the determined gradation pattern, a button 315 that is a button for returning to the previous screen, and a button 316 that is a button for proceeding to the next screen. .

  In the example shown in FIG. 30, each of the gradation patterns 322-1 to 322-9 includes, for example, a “spiral” gradation pattern 322-1, a “radial” gradation pattern 322-2, “ Gradation pattern 322-3 which is “lower right diagonal”, gradation pattern 322-4 which is “upper right diagonal”, gradation pattern 322-5 which is “horizontal stripe”, gradation pattern 322-6 which is “vertical stripe”, “upper left radial” Gradation pattern 322-7, “upper right radial” gradation pattern 322-8, and “lower left radial” gradation pattern 322-9 are displayed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 30, when the user selects a gradation pattern, an area indicating a desired gradation pattern is selected from the gradation patterns 322-1 to 322-9 displayed on the gradation pattern selection screen. By touching (pressing the touch panel 205), a gradation pattern is selected.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 26, in step S128, the pattern control unit 224 receives selection of a gradation pattern. For example, the pattern control unit 224 indicates a desired gradation pattern among the gradation patterns 322-1 to 322-9 on the gradation pattern selection screen (FIG. 30) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. By touching the area (by pressing the touch panel 205), a gradation pattern is selected.

  In step S129, the pattern control unit 224 determines whether or not a gradation pattern has been selected. For example, in step S129, the pattern control unit 224 determines the desired pattern among the gradation patterns 322-1 to 322-9 on the gradation pattern selection screen (FIG. 30) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. It is determined whether or not an area showing a gradation pattern is touched (touch panel 205 is pressed).

  If it is determined in step S129 that the gradation pattern has not been selected, the process returns to step S128 and waits until it is determined that the gradation pattern has been selected.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S129 that the gradation pattern has been selected, the process proceeds to step S130, where the photographing preparation control unit 221 confirms (previews) the gradation pattern based on the first and second background colors. Is displayed on the photographing monitor 35.

  For example, the pattern control unit 224 is “spiral” among the gradation patterns 322-1 to 322-9 on the gradation pattern selection screen (FIG. 30) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. When the user touches the gradation pattern 322-1 (touch panel 205 is pressed) and touches the button 316 (touch panel 205 is pressed), it indicates that the “spiral” gradation pattern 322-1 is selected. The gradation pattern information is supplied to the shooting preparation control unit 221. The shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a gradation confirmation screen on the shooting monitor 35 based on the background color information supplied from the background color control unit 223 and the gradation pattern information supplied from the pattern control unit 224.

  FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of the photographing monitor 35 that displays a gradation confirmation screen.

  In the example shown in FIG. 31, the gradation confirmation display area 331 displays the first and second background colors and the gradation 332 determined by the gradation pattern. In the gradation confirmation display area 331, a button 315 that is a button for returning to the previous screen and a button 333 that allows the gradation 332 to determine the gradation of the background are displayed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 31, the background color 312-1 that is “black” is selected as the first background color 314-1 on the background color selection screen (FIG. 28), and the background color selection screen (FIG. 29) is selected. When the background color 312-2 which is “green” is selected as the second background color 314-2, and the “spiral” gradation pattern is selected on the gradation pattern selection screen (FIG. 30), the gradation 332 is displayed. Will display a “spiral” gradation of “black” and “green”.

  In the example shown in FIG. 31, when determining the gradation, the user touches the button 333 (by pressing the touch panel 205) among the buttons 315 and 333 displayed on the gradation confirmation screen. The gradation displayed on the gradation 332 is determined.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 27, in step S131, the shooting preparation control unit 221 determines whether gradation has been determined. For example, in step S131, the shooting preparation control unit 221 touches the button 333 among the buttons 315 and 333 on the gradation confirmation screen (FIG. 31) displayed on the display of the shooting monitor 35 (the touch panel 205 is pressed). Whether or not) is determined.

  If it is determined in step S131 that the gradation pattern has not been determined, the process returns to step S131 and waits until it is determined that the gradation pattern has been determined.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S131 that the gradation pattern has been determined, the process proceeds to step S132, where the captured image acquisition processing unit 233 is controlled by the imaging control unit 231 to perform a captured image acquisition process, and the CCD of the imaging unit 172. A captured image captured by the camera 33 is captured as a still image, and captured image data is acquired. The captured image acquisition processing unit 233 supplies the acquired captured image data to the background image processing unit 234.

  At this time, for example, the imaging preparation control unit 221 supplies the background color information supplied from the background color control unit 233 and the gradation pattern information supplied from the pattern control unit 224 to the background image processing unit 234. Specifically, the imaging preparation control unit 221 supplies the background color information which is the first background color “black” and the second background color “green” supplied from the background color control unit 233, and The gradation pattern information having a “spiral shape” supplied from the pattern control unit 224 is supplied to the background image processing unit 234.

  In step S133, the background image processing unit 234 is based on the background information (background color information and gradation pattern information) supplied from the shooting preparation control unit 221 and the shot image data supplied from the shot image acquisition processing unit 233. Then, predetermined image processing is performed on the background image. The background image processing unit 234 supplies the captured image data subjected to the background image processing to the real-time live view image display processing unit 235.

  For example, in step S133, the background image processing unit 234 performs chroma key composition on the captured image data supplied from the captured image acquisition processing unit 233. That is, the background image processing unit 234 supplies the first background color “black” and the second background color “green” and the gradation pattern “swirl” supplied from the shooting preparation control unit 221. Based on the above, among the captured image data supplied from the captured image acquisition processing unit 233, the chroma key composition for changing the image data of the background image into a gradation in which “black” and “green” are arranged in a spiral shape. Do. The background image processing unit 234 supplies the real-time live view image display processing unit 235 with captured image data that has been subjected to chroma key composition that changes the background image to a gradation in which “black” and “green” are spirally arranged. .

  That is, the background image processing unit 234 selects image data of a specific color to be a background image from the captured image data supplied from the captured image acquisition processing unit 233 by the user in the process of steps S121 to S131. Perform chroma key composition to change to the gradation image data.

  In step S134, the real-time live view image display processing unit 235 uses the captured image data subjected to background image processing supplied from the background image processing unit 234 via the display control unit 212 in real time as a real-time live view image. It is displayed on the live view monitor 34. For example, in step S134, the real-time live view image display processing unit 235 makes the background image “black” and “green” spirally supplied from the background image processing unit 234 via the display control unit 212. The captured image data that has been subjected to chroma key composition for changing to a color-graded gradation is displayed on the real-time live view monitor 34 as a real-time live view image.

  Specifically, the real-time live view monitor 34 displays, as the real-time live view image, for example, the background images of two models serving as subjects shown in FIG. 22B, FIG. 23B, or FIG. "Is displayed in a gradation image with a spiral arrangement.

  Each of the processes in steps S135 to S139 is the same as each of the processes in steps S65 to S69 in FIG. 21, and the description thereof will be omitted.

  In step S140, the shooting control unit 231 determines whether to save a shot image. For example, in step S140, the shooting control unit 231 instructs the user whether to edit the shot image displayed as a preview on the shooting monitor 35 and save it for printing. It is determined whether or not the captured image is to be saved by determining whether or not the input is performed (using the touch panel 205) in accordance with the GUI image (displayed together with the image).

  If it is determined in step S140 that the captured image is to be stored, the process proceeds to step S141, and the image storage processing unit 237 performs image storage processing. That is, the image storage processing unit 237 acquires the captured image data subjected to the background image processing instructed to be stored by the user from the imaging control unit 231, and sends it to the image data holding unit 163 via the bus 151. Then, the photographing process is terminated, the process returns to step S102 in FIG. 25, and the processes after step S103 are executed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S140 that the captured image is not stored, the process proceeds to step S142, and the image storage processing unit 237 performs image erasure processing. That is, the image storage processing unit 237 acquires the captured image data subjected to background image processing instructed not to be stored by the user from the imaging control unit 231, deletes it, returns to step S121, and returns to the above-described step. The process is repeated.

  In this way, the user can select the first and second background colors and the gradation pattern again, and perform the background image processing (the processing in step S133), so that the gradation of the background image selected for the first time is selected. Even if the user is not satisfied with the above, the gradation can be selected again and again, so that the customer satisfaction of the user can be improved.

  In the above-described example, the background image gradation is determined by selecting the first and second background colors and the gradation pattern. However, one or more gradation patterns are prepared in advance. Thus, the user may select a gradation pattern prepared in advance, and background image processing may be performed on the captured image based on the selected gradation pattern. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 32 to FIG. 35, a process for causing the user to select a gradation pattern prepared in advance will be described.

  In the following, in order to explain the flow of processing that allows the user to select a background color and gradation during shooting, the flow of main processing executed by the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 will be described. Since it is the same as the above-described game management process of FIG. 12 and the photo sticker creation game process is the same as the above-described photo sticker creation game process of FIG. 25, the description thereof is omitted.

  First, details of the photographing process in step S102 of FIG. 25 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S161, the shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a gradation pattern mode selection screen on the shooting monitor 35 for selecting a gradation pattern mode.

  FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of the photographing monitor 35 that displays a gradation pattern mode selection screen.

  As shown in FIG. 33, for example, “recommended gradation pattern mode” and “original gradation pattern mode” are displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35 as gradation pattern mode selection screens.

  In the example shown in FIG. 33, when the user selects the gradation pattern mode, a desired gradation pattern is selected from “recommended gradation pattern mode” and “original gradation pattern mode” displayed on the gradation pattern mode selection screen. By touching the area indicating the mode (by pressing the touch panel 205), the gradation pattern mode is selected.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 32, in step S162, the shooting preparation processing unit 221 determines whether or not the “recommended gradation pattern mode” has been selected. For example, in step S162, the photographing preparation processing unit 221 uses the “recommended gradation pattern mode” and “original gradation pattern mode” in the gradation pattern mode selection screen (FIG. 33) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. The person touches the “recommended gradation pattern mode” (presses the touch panel 205), and determines whether or not the “recommended gradation pattern mode” has been selected.

  If it is determined in step S162 that the “recommended gradation pattern mode” has been selected, the process proceeds to step S163, where the photographing preparation processing unit 183 and the photographing processing unit 184 cause the user to select a gradation pattern prepared in advance. Based on the selected gradation pattern, background image processing is performed on the captured image, the recommended gradation pattern is processed, the photographing process is terminated, and the process returns to step S102 in FIG. The subsequent processing is executed. Details of the recommended gradation pattern processing will be described later.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S162 that the “recommended gradation pattern mode” is not selected (that is, “original gradation pattern mode” is selected), the process proceeds to step S164, and the photographing preparation processing unit 183 and the photographing processing unit 184 performs an original gradation pattern process in which the user selects a background color and a gradation pattern in the middle of shooting, ends the shooting process, returns the process to step S102 in FIG. 25, and performs the processes in and after step S103. Is executed. The processing of the original gradation pattern is the same as the shooting processing described with reference to FIGS. 26 and 27, and the description thereof is omitted.

  Next, details of the recommended gradation pattern processing in step S163 of FIG. 32 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S181, the shooting preparation control unit 221 causes the shooting monitor 35 to display a recommended gradation pattern selection screen for selecting a recommended gradation.

  FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of the photographing monitor 35 that displays a recommended gradation pattern selection screen.

  As shown in FIG. 35, a recommended gradation pattern selection screen, for example, a recommended gradation pattern display area 341 displays recommended gradation patterns 342-1 to 342-9 on the display of the photographing monitor 35. A cursor 343 for selecting those gradation patterns is also displayed. In addition, a right scroll button 345 that is a button for displaying a recommended gradation pattern that is not displayed in the recommended gradation pattern display area 341 is also displayed. Further, the recommended gradation pattern display area 341 includes a recommended gradation pattern 344 that is the determined recommended gradation pattern, a button 315 that is a button for returning to the previous screen, and a button 316 that is a button for proceeding to the next screen. Is displayed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 35, the recommended gradation pattern 342-1 to the recommended gradation pattern 342-9 include, for example, a recommended gradation pattern 342-1 that is “beautiful” and a recommended gradation pattern 342 that is “cool”. 2. Recommended gradation pattern 342-3 “Sexy”, Recommended gradation pattern 342-4 “Rock”, Recommended gradation pattern 342-5 “Cute”, Recommended gradation pattern 342-6 “Border” Recommended gradation pattern 342-7 that is “street”, recommended gradation pattern 342-8 that is “gothic loli”, and recommended gradation pattern 34 that is “happy” -9 is displayed.

  In these recommended gradation patterns, a background color and a gradation pattern suitable for each atmosphere are set in advance. For example, the recommended gradation pattern 342-1 that is “beautiful” has a gradation composed of a background color that is “black” and “brown” and a gradation pattern that is “swirl” that matches the atmosphere that is “beautiful”. However, it is preset as the recommended gradation pattern 342-1. Similarly, in each of the recommended gradation pattern 342-2 to the recommended gradation pattern 342-9, a background color and a gradation pattern suitable for each atmosphere are set in advance.

  In the example shown in FIG. 35, when the user selects a recommended gradation pattern, a desired recommended gradation is selected from the recommended gradation patterns 322-1 to 322-9 displayed on the recommended gradation pattern selection screen. A recommended gradation pattern is selected by touching a region indicating a pattern (by pressing the touch panel 205).

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 34, in step S182, the pattern control unit 224 accepts selection of a recommended gradation pattern. For example, the pattern control unit 224 may select a recommendation recommended by the user from among the recommended gradation patterns 342-1 to 342-9 on the recommended gradation pattern selection screen (FIG. 35) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. The recommended gradation pattern is selected by touching the area indicating the gradation pattern (by pressing the touch panel 205).

  In step S183, the pattern control unit 224 determines whether a recommended gradation pattern has been selected. For example, in step S183, the pattern control unit 224, among the recommended gradation patterns 342-1 to 342-9 on the recommended gradation pattern selection screen (FIG. 35) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35, the user. Touches the area showing the desired recommended gradation pattern (whether the touch panel 205 is pressed) or not.

  If it is determined in step S183 that the recommended gradation pattern is not selected, the process returns to step S182 and waits until it is determined that the recommended gradation pattern is selected.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S183 that the recommended gradation pattern has been selected, the process proceeds to step S184, and the shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a recommended gradation confirmation screen on the shooting monitor 35 for checking (previewing) the recommended gradation pattern. Display.

  For example, the pattern control unit 224 indicates that the user is “beautiful” among the recommended gradation patterns 342-1 to 342-9 on the recommended gradation pattern selection screen (FIG. 35) displayed on the display of the photographing monitor 35. When the recommended gradation pattern 342-1 is touched (the touch panel 205 is pressed) and the button 316 is touched (the touch panel 205 is pressed), the recommended gradation pattern 342-1 that is “beautiful” is selected. The recommended gradation pattern information indicating this is supplied to the shooting preparation control unit 221. The shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a recommended gradation confirmation screen on the shooting monitor 35 based on the recommended gradation pattern information supplied from the pattern control unit 224.

  For example, in step S184, the shooting preparation control unit 221 displays a recommended gradation confirmation screen similar to the gradation confirmation screen (FIG. 31) based on the recommended gradation pattern information that is “beautiful” supplied from the pattern control unit 224. Then, the recommended gradation confirmation screen for displaying the gradation 332 that is “beautiful” is displayed on the photographing monitor 35.

  In step S185, the shooting preparation control unit 221 determines whether a recommended gradation has been determined. For example, in step S185, the shooting preparation control unit 221 touches the button 333 among the buttons 315 and 333 of the recommended gradation confirmation screen (FIG. 31) displayed on the display of the shooting monitor 35 (the touch panel 205 is pressed). Whether or not) is determined.

  If it is determined in step S185 that the recommended gradation pattern has not been determined, the process returns to step S185 and waits until it is determined that the recommended gradation pattern has been determined.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S185 that the recommended gradation pattern has been determined, the process proceeds to step S186.

  Each of the processes in steps S186 to S196 is the same as each of the processes in steps S132 to S142 in FIG. 27, and the description thereof is omitted.

  In this way, by preparing one or a plurality of gradation patterns in advance, it is possible to allow the user to select the gradation patterns prepared in advance. For example, the background image is determined within a predetermined time. Even if it is necessary to do so, the user can quickly select and determine the desired background image.

  For example, even if a user does not have a clear image with respect to the background image by preparing a gradation corresponding to the atmosphere such as “beautiful”, “cool”, or “sexy” in advance. By selecting an atmosphere that suits you, you can select a background image (gradation) that corresponds to that atmosphere. For example, even if you must determine a background image within a predetermined time The background image can be determined without hesitation.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to improve the uniqueness or entertainment of a captured image provided to a user, improve the satisfaction of the user, and improve the profitability of the apparatus.

  In addition, as described above, the uniqueness or entertainment of the photographed image provided to the user can be improved because the user can efficiently perform the photographing work and enjoy the game. is there. In particular, in the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 as described above, since a time limit is usually set for playing the game, the user needs to complete the shooting work within a limited time. The effect becomes more prominent. Therefore, as a result of the above, the photo sticker creating apparatus of the present invention can remarkably improve the satisfaction and can be expected to increase the number of customers, so the store side can expect improved profitability. it can

  In the above-described example, the chroma key composition is described as an example of the image processing for superimposing another image on the background image of the photographed image. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the background image of the photographed image is different. Any image processing that can superimpose images may be used.

  In the above-described example, the background image of the photographed subject is changed to the gradation selected by the user at the time of shooting. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and these processes are performed at the time of editing. You may make it perform. For example, when editing (for example, the process of step S24), when the user uses the touch pen 43 to specify the background portion of the image displayed on the editing input monitor 42, the user selects the background image. You may make it change to the made gradation.

  Furthermore, the background color and the gradation pattern described above are merely examples, and other colors and gradation patterns may of course be used.

  Also, the number of shooting spaces and editing spaces can be any number, and the maximum number of simultaneous customers can be tripled or more. Of course, each space may be shared by one space. Furthermore, the display example of each image described above is only an example, and it may of course have a configuration other than the above-described one. Further, for example, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 such as a pre-input unit may have a configuration other than that described above. Further, the number of units constituting the housing 10 may be any number.

  Further, in the above, the print medium is not limited to the sticker paper, and for example, the print medium is printed on a predetermined size paper, a poster paper, a card such as a telephone card, or a cloth such as a T-shirt. It may be.

  When a series of processing is executed by software, a program constituting the software executes various functions by installing a computer incorporated in dedicated hardware or various programs. For example, a general-purpose personal computer is installed from a recording medium such as a network or a removable medium.

  In the present specification, the step of describing the program stored in the recording medium is not limited to the processing performed in chronological order according to the described order, but is not necessarily performed in chronological order. It also includes processes that are executed individually.

It is a perspective view which shows the structural example of the photograph sticker production apparatus to which this invention is applied. It is a perspective view which shows the example of installation of the photograph sticker production apparatus of FIG. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the front of the 1st unit of the photograph sticker production apparatus of FIG. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the back surface of the 1st unit of the photograph sticker production apparatus of FIG. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the right side surface of the 1st unit of the photograph sticker production apparatus of FIG. It is a figure explaining a user's movement pattern. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of the timing chart of a photograph sticker creation game. It is a block diagram which shows the example of an internal structure of the photograph sticker production apparatus of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the detailed structural example of the imaging | photography part of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the detailed structural example of the imaging | photography preparation process part of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the detailed structural example of the imaging | photography process part of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining a game management process. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of photograph sticker creation game processing. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of imaging | photography preparation processing. It is a figure which shows the example of the pattern of the gradation by imaging | photography mode. It is a figure which shows the example of the display of the monitor for imaging | photography which displays an imaging | photography mode selection screen. It is a figure which shows the example of the display of the monitor for imaging | photography which displays the background color selection screen which selects the background color of the 1st color. It is a figure which shows the example of the display of the monitor for imaging | photography which displays the background color selection screen which selects the background color of the 2nd color. It is a figure which shows the example of the display of the monitor for imaging | photography which displays a gradation pattern selection screen. It is a figure which shows the example of the display of the monitor for imaging | photography which displays a gradation confirmation screen. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of imaging | photography process. It is a figure which shows an example of the display of the real-time live view monitor which displays a real-time live view image. It is a figure which shows an example of the display of the real-time live view monitor which displays a real-time live view image. It is a figure which shows an example of the display of the real-time live view monitor which displays a real-time live view image. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of photograph sticker creation game processing. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of imaging | photography process. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of imaging | photography process. It is a figure which shows the example of the display of the monitor for imaging | photography which displays the background color selection screen which selects the background color of the 1st color. It is a figure which shows the example of the display of the monitor for imaging | photography which displays the background color selection screen which selects the background color of the 2nd color. It is a figure which shows the example of the display of the monitor for imaging | photography which displays a gradation pattern selection screen. It is a figure which shows the example of the display of the monitor for imaging | photography which displays a gradation confirmation screen. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of imaging | photography process. It is a figure which shows the example of the display of the monitor for imaging | photography which displays a gradation pattern mode selection screen. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of a process of a recommended gradation pattern. It is a figure which shows the example of the display of the monitor for imaging | photography which displays a recommendation gradation pattern selection screen.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Photo sticker production apparatus 10 Case 11 1st unit 12 2nd unit 34 Real-time live view monitor 35 Shooting monitor 172 Shooting unit 183 Shooting preparation processing unit 184 Shooting processing unit 221 Shooting preparation control unit 222 Mode control unit 223 Background color control Unit 224 pattern control unit 225 background information storage unit 231 imaging control unit 232 setting information acquisition processing unit 233 captured image acquisition processing unit 234 background image processing unit 235 real-time live view image display processing unit 236 preview image display processing unit 237 image storage processing unit

Claims (6)

As a photo sticker creation game, the user is allowed to perform a shooting operation with the user as a subject, and an editing input operation to input editing information to the user's image obtained by the shooting operation. In the photo sticker creating game, the user is photographed, the obtained user image is edited based on the editing input inputted by the user, and the edited user image obtained is obtained. Is a photo sticker creation device that prints on a predetermined sticker sheet, discharges the sticker sheet on which the edited image of the user is printed, and provides the user as a photo sticker,
Image capturing means for capturing an image including the user and capturing the user;
A first receiving unit that receives input of first information related to a color of an area that is a background image of the user among the images;
Second accepting means for accepting input of second information related to the pattern of the area;
Generation for generating image data of the image based on the received first information and second information so that the image data corresponding to the region becomes image data corresponding to the color and the pattern Means,
A photo sticker creating apparatus comprising: display control means for controlling display of an image corresponding to the generated image data so that the user can perform the photographing operation while viewing the image. The first reception unit displays a plurality of colors according to the atmosphere of the mode as the first information according to a mode for photographing the user, and selects the first color from the displayed color group. The photo sticker creating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the input of the information of 1 is received. The second accepting unit displays a plurality of gradations suitable for the atmosphere of the mode as the second information according to the mode, and inputs the second information from the displayed gradation group. The photo sticker creating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The second accepting unit displays a plurality of gradation patterns with colors corresponding to the atmosphere that the user thinks as prepared as the third information, and from among the displayed pattern group, the third information is displayed. Accept information for
The generation means generates image data of the image based on the received third information so that the image data corresponding to the region becomes image data corresponding to the color and the pattern. The photo sticker creating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein As a photo sticker creation game, the user is allowed to perform a shooting operation with the user as a subject, and an editing input operation to input editing information to the user's image obtained by the shooting operation. In the photo sticker creating game, the user is photographed, the obtained user image is edited based on the editing input inputted by the user, and the edited user image obtained is obtained. A photo sticker creating method of a photo sticker creating apparatus that prints on a predetermined sticker sheet, discharges the sticker sheet on which the edited image of the user is printed, and provides the user as a photo sticker,
A capturing step of capturing an image including the user and capturing the user;
A first accepting step for accepting input of first information relating to a color of an area to be a background image of the user among the images;
A second accepting step for accepting input of second information relating to the pattern of the region;
Generation for generating image data of the image based on the received first information and second information so that the image data corresponding to the region becomes image data corresponding to the color and the pattern Steps,
And a display control step for controlling the display of the image corresponding to the generated image data so that the user can perform the photographing operation while viewing the image. As a photo sticker creation game, the user is allowed to perform a shooting operation with the user as a subject, and an editing input operation to input editing information to the user's image obtained by the shooting operation. In the photo sticker creating game, the user is photographed, the obtained user image is edited based on the editing input inputted by the user, and the edited user image obtained is obtained. In a program for causing a computer to print a predetermined sticker sheet, discharge the sticker sheet on which the edited user image is printed, and provide the user as a photo sticker.
A capturing step of capturing an image including the user and capturing the user;
A first accepting step for accepting input of first information relating to a color of an area to be a background image of the user among the images;
A second accepting step for accepting input of second information relating to the pattern of the region;
Generation for generating image data of the image based on the received first information and second information so that the image data corresponding to the region becomes image data corresponding to the color and the pattern Steps,
A display control step for controlling display of an image corresponding to the generated image data so that the user can perform the photographing operation while viewing the image.

Images