JP2007259035A - Imaging apparatus and imaging condition guidance method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an imaging apparatus and an imaging condition guidance method whereby even a user unfamiliar with the handling of the imaging apparatus and providing instructions of imaging can easily arrange imaging conditions to obtain a target layout. <P>SOLUTION: The user of the imaging apparatus acquires target layout data for representing the position and the size of a prescribed object to be imaged in a frame, and the imaging apparatus detects the prescribed object on a preliminary imaged image obtained by executing preliminary imaging during imaging waiting, compares the detected position and the size of the object with the position and the size of the same object represented by the target layout data to calculate the difference between them, and guides the user about at least one of zoom magnification, the imaging direction of the imaging apparatus and the position of the prescribed object so as to decrease the difference. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus such as a digital camera, and more particularly to an image pickup apparatus having a function of setting a target composition when taking an image.

Conventionally, in order to capture a subject as intended, or to request a third party to perform such shooting, the imaging teaching image is made translucent to a sequentially changing through image. A method is proposed in which a synthesized image is displayed on a monitor instead of a normal through image, and a normal shooting process is performed and a shot image is recorded when the shutter is pressed (Patent Document 1). . According to this method, the user can take a photograph of the intended composition by performing framing so that the through image overlaps the composition teaching image and pressing the shutter.
JP 2004-40724 A

  However, in the above photographing method, the user changes the standing position for photographing or the orientation of the imaging device, or instructs the standing position to the person who is the subject in order to photograph the photograph according to the composition teaching image. Or, depending on the situation, it is necessary to change the camera settings, for example, zoom magnification, and because of the degree of freedom, how to handle the framing so that the through image overlaps the composition teaching image is handled. It may be difficult to determine whether it should be done. This problem is particularly noticeable for users who are not accustomed to handling digital cameras or the like and taking pictures.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide an imaging apparatus and an imaging condition guide method that can easily take a picture according to an image that teaches a set composition.

  The imaging apparatus according to the present invention repeatedly performs preliminary imaging in a shooting standby state to sequentially capture preliminary captured images, and performs actual imaging in response to an imaging operation to obtain the actual captured image. Target composition information acquisition means for acquiring target composition information indicating a composition to be a target and indicating a position and a size at which at least one predetermined subject to be imaged is to be arranged on the captured image; A subject detection unit for detecting the predetermined subject included in the preliminary captured image, and a comparison between the position and size of the subject detected by the subject detection unit and the position and size of the predetermined subject represented by the target composition information The difference is reduced based on the subject difference calculation means for calculating the difference in position and size and the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation means. , The zoom magnification of the imaging apparatus, is characterized in that a guide means for guiding the at least one of the position of the orientation, and the predetermined subject imaging apparatus.

  The imaging apparatus according to the present invention may further include notification means for notifying that when a difference corresponding to the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation means is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold.

  Further, an imaging permission unit that permits the main imaging when a difference corresponding to the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation unit is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value may be further provided.

  In the imaging apparatus of the present invention, the predetermined subject includes a person's face, and further includes face registration means for registering a face of a specific person, and the subject detection means is registered as the person's face. Alternatively, a specific face may be detected.

  Further, in the imaging apparatus of the present invention, the target composition information acquisition means has a position and a size to be arranged on the actual captured image of the predetermined subject in accordance with an operation of a manual input means provided in the imaging apparatus. It is also possible to determine the thickness.

  In the imaging apparatus of the present invention, the target composition information acquisition unit may acquire the target composition information by selecting from a plurality of different target composition information.

  In the imaging apparatus of the present invention, the target composition information acquisition unit may acquire the target composition information from outside the imaging apparatus via a network.

  In the imaging apparatus of the present invention, the predetermined subject includes a landmark, and further includes current position information acquisition means for acquiring current position information for specifying a current position, and the target composition information acquisition means includes: The target composition information including a landmark present near the current position represented by the current position information as the predetermined subject may be selected and acquired.

  In the imaging device of the present invention, imaging position information acquisition means for acquiring imaging position information for specifying an imaging position that can be imaged with the composition represented by the acquired target composition information, the current position information, and the imaging You may make it further provide the imaging position guidance means which guides a photographer to the said imaging position based on position information.

  The image pickup apparatus according to the present invention further includes control means for controlling the zoom magnification of the image pickup means or the orientation of the image pickup apparatus so as to reduce the difference based on the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation means. The guide means may guide the position of the predetermined subject.

  In the imaging condition guide method of the present invention, preliminary imaging is repeatedly performed in the imaging standby state to sequentially capture preliminary captured images, and imaging conditions are guided in an imaging apparatus that obtains the actual captured image by performing main imaging in response to an imaging operation. Information indicating a composition to be a target when imaging, and target composition information indicating a position and a size at which at least one predetermined subject to be imaged should be arranged on the main captured image. A step of acquiring, a step of detecting the predetermined subject included in the preliminary captured image, and comparing the position and size of the detected subject with the position and size of the predetermined subject represented by the target composition information. Calculating the difference between the position and the size, and the zoom magnification of the image pickup device, the orientation of the image pickup device, and the like so as to reduce the difference based on the calculated difference. It is made of a step of guiding the at least one of a position of the predetermined subject.

  In the present invention, as the current position information acquisition means, for example, the current position information is obtained by receiving a GPS (Global Positioning System) signal or reading an IC chip or a printed code installed in various places. Can be considered.

  As the landmark, for example, nature such as a mountain or the sea or a part thereof, a bronze statue, a building, etc. can be considered, and more specifically, Mount Fuji, Osaka Castle, Nara Daibutsu, Tokyo Tower, etc. It is done.

  The face registration unit prepares in advance data representing feature points, feature amounts, and the like used when detecting an image or face of a face of a specific person, and accepts the input of the data to obtain a specific face. Registration may be performed, or a specific person's face may be registered by capturing an image of a specific person's face by the imaging apparatus itself and acquiring image data obtained by the imaging. Good.

  As the imaging device, for example, a digital still camera, a digital video camera, or the like can be considered.

  In the present invention, the position and size of a predetermined subject represented by the target composition information selected and acquired from a plurality of target composition information prepared in advance can be changed by a user operation. Is preferred.

  As the guidance means, for example, navigation by voice, instruction by beep sound or lamp display, comment display on a monitor screen, and the like can be considered. The guidance means may be configured to output these guidance information directly from the imaging device, or indirectly output via a remote control or mobile phone that has received the signal output from the imaging device. It may be of the form to do.

  According to the imaging apparatus and imaging condition guiding method of the present invention, a composition that is a target for imaging, that is, a composition that represents the position and size at which a predetermined subject to be imaged should be placed on the captured image is set. And the predetermined subject is detected on the preliminary captured image obtained by preliminary imaging, and the difference is calculated by comparing the position and size of the detected subject with the target position and size. So that at least one of the zoom magnification of the imaging device, the orientation of the imaging device, and the position of the predetermined subject is guided, so even a person who is unfamiliar with handling of the imaging device and instructions for imaging By following the guidance, the imaging conditions for obtaining the target composition can be easily prepared, and a photograph according to the set composition can be easily taken.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a digital camera (imaging device) according to an embodiment of the present invention. This digital camera is a digital camera that guides the photographer or the subject so that the subject composition is set and the subject is imaged with the composition, and is read into the auxiliary storage device of the camera. This is realized by executing the processing program on a computer built in the imaging apparatus. The image data represents an image, and the following description will be given without particularly distinguishing the image from the image data.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the digital camera according to the present embodiment repeatedly performs preliminary imaging in a shooting standby state, sequentially captures preliminary imaging images Pp, performs main imaging in response to imaging operations, and performs actual imaging P An image capturing unit 10 for obtaining image data, and target composition data K indicating a position and size at which at least one predetermined subject to be imaged is to be placed on the main captured image P. A target composition data acquisition unit (target composition information acquisition unit, imaging position information acquisition unit) 20 to be acquired, a subject detection unit (subject detection unit) 30 that detects the predetermined subject included in the preliminary captured image Pp, and subject detection The position and size of the subject detected by the unit 30 are compared with the position and size of the predetermined subject represented by the target composition data K, and the difference between the position and size is calculated. Based on the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation unit (subject difference calculation unit) 40 and the subject difference calculation unit 40, the zoom magnification of the imaging unit 10, the direction of the camera, and the predetermined amount are reduced so as to reduce the difference. When the difference corresponding to the difference calculated by the imaging condition guide unit (guidance means) 50 for guiding at least one of the positions of the subject and the subject difference calculation unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold Th. An alarm output unit (notification unit) 60 for notifying and an imaging permission unit (imaging) that permits main imaging by the imaging unit 10 when a difference corresponding to the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold Th. Permission means) 70, a face data registration unit (face registration means) 80 for registering face data Fr of a specific person, and current position data Jh for specifying the current position. Imaging that acquires imaging position data Jl that specifies an imaging position that can be imaged with the composition represented by the target composition data K acquired by the position data acquisition unit (current position information acquisition unit) 90 and the target composition data acquisition unit 20 A position data acquisition unit (imaging position information acquisition unit) 100, an imaging position guidance unit (imaging position guidance unit) 110 that guides the photographer to the imaging position based on the current position data Jh and the imaging position data Jl, and a subject An imaging system control unit (control means) 120 that controls the zoom magnification of the imaging unit 10 or the direction of the camera is provided so as to reduce the calculated difference based on the difference calculated by the difference calculation unit 40.

  The imaging unit 10 includes an optical system such as a lens, an imaging element such as a CCD that performs photoelectric conversion, an imaging circuit, and an A / D conversion circuit, as in a general digital camera, and forms an image by the optical system. The converted subject image is photoelectrically converted by an imaging device, and the photoelectrically converted image signal is input to the A / D conversion circuit via the imaging circuit to obtain digitally converted image data. Further, in the imaging standby state, the imaging unit 10 repeatedly performs preliminary imaging to sequentially capture the preliminary captured images Pp, and performs the main imaging in response to the imaging operation to obtain the main captured image P. The acquired actual captured image P is stored in a memory (not shown). Here, a detailed configuration of the imaging unit 10 is not illustrated.

  The target composition data acquisition unit 20 selects target composition data K representing a composition against the background of a landmark existing in the vicinity of the current position represented by the current position data Jh, from a plurality of different target composition data prepared. To get. The plurality of different target composition data respectively represent positions and sizes that are targets on the composition with respect to any one of the plurality of different landmarks and the human face.

  In the present embodiment, the plurality of different target composition data is stored in a server outside the digital camera, and the target composition data acquisition unit 20 is connected via a network (wired or wireless) such as the Internet. The server is accessed to acquire one of a plurality of target composition data stored in the server. That is, the target composition data acquisition unit 20 transmits the current position data Jh acquired by the current position data acquisition unit 90 to the server, and the server prepares in advance according to the current position specified by the current position data Jh. The target composition data including a predetermined landmark in the vicinity of the current position in the composition is selected from the plurality of target composition data that have been received and sent back to the digital camera, and the target composition data acquisition unit 20 receives from the server. The returned target composition data is acquired.

  As another embodiment, the plurality of different target composition data are recorded in advance in a database of the digital camera, or directly downloaded from the server via a network, or once by a personal computer. The downloaded composition is transferred or stored in a database, and the target composition data acquisition unit 20 may read and acquire the target composition data from this database.

  In addition, landmark target composition data and person face target composition data are prepared separately, and the target composition data acquisition unit 20 acquires a combination of landmark data and person face data. May be.

  In addition, the target composition data acquisition unit 20 captures the subject that the user wants to make a background on the spot by the imaging unit 10, and sets a predetermined image obtained by the imaging and a desired position on the image. The target composition data may be acquired by synthesizing with the humanoid image.

  The subject detection unit 30 includes a landmark detection unit 31 and a face detection unit 32.

  The landmark detection unit 31 detects a predetermined landmark specified by the target composition data K included in the preliminary captured image Pp, and obtains information on the position (center or center of gravity) and size of the landmark. It is. The landmark detection unit 31 detects a landmark by template matching, and a landmark template Tl used for matching is attached to the target composition data, and is acquired by the target composition data acquisition unit 20 together with the target composition data. Take.

  The face detection unit 32 detects the face of a person included in the preliminary captured image Pp and obtains information on the position (center or center of gravity) and size of the face. Is registered, the registered specific face is detected. Similar to the landmark detection unit 31, the face detection unit 32 detects a face by template matching. However, the face detection unit 32 has a standard face template Tf used for matching. A face is detected using this template. However, when a face Fr of a specific person is registered in the face data registration unit 80, a template Tfr is created from the registered face, and the specific face is detected using the template Tfr.

  The types of landmarks to be detected include, for example, nature such as mountains and seas and parts thereof, bronze statues, buildings, and the like. As other detection methods for landmarks and faces, for example, a method using an object classifier generated by a learning algorithm called boosting, or an object classifier generated by a class classification method called a self-organizing map A method of using can be considered.

  The subject difference calculation unit 40 includes a landmark difference calculation unit 41 and a face difference calculation unit 42.

  The landmark difference calculation unit 41 obtains the detected landmark position Lld and size Sld obtained by the landmark detection unit 31 and the landmark position Llt and size Slt represented by the target composition data K, respectively. In comparison, as the difference Dl, a deviation amount and direction of the landmark position, a relative ratio of the area occupied by the landmark, and the like are calculated.

  The face difference calculation unit 42 obtains the position Lfd and the size Sfd of the detected person's face (if registered face data is present, the face of the registered specific person) obtained by the face detection unit 32. Then, the face position Lft and the size Sft represented by the target composition data K are compared, and the deviation amount of the face position, its direction, the relative ratio of the size, and the like are calculated as the difference Df.

  The imaging condition guide unit 50 includes a zoom magnification / imaging direction guide unit 51 and a face position guide unit 52.

  Based on the difference Dl calculated by the landmark difference calculation unit 41, the zoom magnification / imaging direction guide unit 51 provides information for guiding the zoom magnification and the imaging direction in the imaging unit 10 so that the difference Dl decreases. In this embodiment, the direction in which the zoom magnification should be changed or the zoom target magnification, the direction in which the digital camera is tilted, and the like are guided by voice Gc. For example, when the detected landmark position Lld is shifted to the left from the target position Llt represented by the target composition data K, a voice saying “Please turn the camera to the left” is output. If the size of the detected landmark is smaller than the target size, a voice saying “Please increase the zoom magnification” is output. As another embodiment, for example, the camera body may be provided with a lamp that indicates the direction in which the camera is to be moved and the direction in which the zoom magnification is to be changed, so that the direction of movement of the camera is notified. You may make it display on the monitor with which a camera main body is provided, showing the direction which the camera should move, and the magnitude direction which should change zoom magnification.

  Based on the difference Df calculated by the face difference calculation unit 42, the face position guide unit 52 outputs information for guiding the direction in which the face of the person who is the subject should move so that the difference Df decreases. In this embodiment, the direction in which the face of the person who is the subject is to be moved is guided by the voice Gf. For example, when the detected face position Lfd is shifted to the left from the target position Lft represented by the target composition data K, a sound such as “Please move the subject to the right” is output. If the detected face size Sfd is smaller than the target size Sft, a sound such as “Please approach the camera toward the subject” is output. As another embodiment, for example, the camera body may be provided with a lamp that indicates the direction in which the person who is the subject should move, so that the movement direction of the person who is the subject may be notified. A separate remote controller or monitor unit may have such a function, or a mobile phone owned by a user may be controlled to have the same function.

  The position and size of the detected face change with changes in the zoom magnification and the imaging direction of the imaging device. Therefore, the user first follows the zoom magnification / imaging direction guide unit 51 according to the guidance of the zoom magnification and imaging direction. After the orientation is set correctly, or after the zoom magnification is correctly controlled by the imaging system control unit 120, the face position guide unit 52 guides the face position.

  The alarm output unit 60 notifies when the difference corresponding to the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold Th, and in this embodiment, the landmark difference calculation unit 41. The difference corresponding to the landmark difference Dl calculated by the above is equal to or less than the first threshold Th1, and the difference corresponding to the face difference Df calculated by the face difference calculating unit 42 is equal to or less than the second threshold Th2. In some cases, an alarm lamp provided in the camera body is turned on or blinked and an electronic sound is output. By viewing this lamp or listening to an electronic sound, the user can know that the actual framed composition is approximate to the target composition represented by the target composition data K and is ready for imaging. . As another embodiment, for example, a display indicating that the difference is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold Th may be performed on a monitor provided in the camera body.

  The imaging permission unit 70 permits the main imaging by the imaging unit 10 when a difference corresponding to the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold Th. The difference corresponding to the landmark difference D1 calculated by the difference calculation unit 41 is equal to or less than the first threshold Th1, and the difference corresponding to the face difference Df calculated by the face difference calculation unit 42 is the second difference. Only when it is equal to or less than the threshold value Th2, an operation for requesting imaging is accepted. That is, the user can perform the main imaging only when the difference with respect to the landmark and the difference with respect to the face are each equal to or less than the predetermined threshold Th. As another embodiment, for example, the imaging unit 10 is controlled so that the main imaging is automatically performed when the difference with respect to the landmark and the difference with respect to the face are each equal to or less than a predetermined threshold Th. Also good.

  In the present embodiment, the alarm output function by the alarm output unit 60 and the imaging permission function by the imaging permission unit 70 work simultaneously, but only one of the functions may work by mode switching. .

  The face data registration unit 80 registers face data Pf of a specific person by inputting the face data of the specific person or by imaging the face of the specific person by the imaging unit 10. The face detection unit 32 registers a specific face to be detected in the preliminary captured image Pp.

  The current position data acquisition unit 90 acquires current position data Jh for specifying the current position. In this embodiment, the current position data acquisition unit 90 receives a GPS signal and acquires current position data Jh. The current position data acquisition unit 90 reads an IC chip or SQ code, which is installed in various places such as tourist attractions and major cities, and includes information specifying the position of the place, Data Jh may be acquired.

  The imaging position data acquisition unit 100 acquires imaging position data Jl for specifying an imaging position that can be imaged with the composition represented by the target composition data K acquired by the target composition data acquisition unit 20. The imaging position data is data obtained by obtaining an imaging position that can be imaged with the composition based on the position and size of the landmark included in the composition represented by a certain target composition data. And one image pickup position data exist in pairs. In the present embodiment, a plurality of target composition data and a plurality of imaging position data are associated with each other and stored in the server, and the imaging position data acquisition unit 100 is connected to the server via a network such as the Internet. , And the imaging position data associated with the target composition data acquired by the target composition data acquisition unit 20 is acquired.

  The imaging position guide unit 110 calculates the difference in position based on the current position data Jh acquired by the current position data acquisition unit 90 and the imaging position data Jl acquired by the imaging position data acquisition unit 100. The photographer is guided to the imaging position so that the difference is reduced. In this embodiment, the direction in which the photographer should move is guided by the voice Gl. For example, when the imaging position is on the north side of the current position, a voice “Please move to the north” is output. As another embodiment, for example, the camera body may be provided with a lamp that indicates the direction in which shooting should move, so that the photographer is informed of the moving direction.

  The imaging system control unit 120 controls the zoom magnification and the camera direction of the imaging unit 10 based on the difference calculated by the landmark difference calculation unit 41 so that the difference is reduced. A zoom lens drive motor for changing and a drive motor (not shown) for changing the posture of the camera body (or the imaging unit 10) are provided, and functions in a state where the camera body is fixed to a tripod or the like. For example, the target composition data or the imaging position data includes data representing the actual position and size of the landmark to be imaged, and the actual position and size of the landmark represented by the data and the imaging position data represent From the imaging position, the position and size of the landmark detected in the preliminary captured image Pp, the zoom magnification, and the like, the distance between the landmark and the imaging position, and the straight line from the imaging position to the center of the landmark and the ground Calculates the angle between the top surface, etc. geometrically, calculates the appropriate camera direction and zoom magnification using the calculated physical quantities, and drives the camera direction and zoom magnification to the appropriate direction and magnification. Control the motor.

  In the present embodiment, either one of the guidance function by the zoom magnification / imaging direction guide unit 51 and the control function by the imaging system control unit 120 can be enabled by mode switching.

  Next, processing performed in the present embodiment will be described. In the camera according to the present embodiment, as described above, either the guidance function by the zoom magnification / imaging direction guide unit 51 or the control function by the imaging system control unit 120 is switched by mode switching (guidance / control mode). It can be enabled. Therefore, the flow of processing in this embodiment will be described for each of the case where the mode is the guidance mode and the case where the mode is the control mode.

  First, processing performed in the present embodiment when the mode is the guidance mode will be described. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing processing performed in the guidance mode.

  First, the current position data acquisition unit 90 receives a GPS signal and acquires current position data Jh (step ST1). Then, the target composition data acquisition unit 20 transmits the current position data Jh acquired by the current position data acquisition unit 90 to a predetermined server via an external network, and the server is identified by the current position data Jh. Depending on the position, target composition data including a predetermined landmark in the vicinity of the current position in the composition is selected from a plurality of target composition data prepared in advance and transmitted to the digital camera side. The acquisition unit 20 acquires the target composition data transmitted from the server (step ST2). In addition, the imaging position data acquisition unit 30 identifies an imaging position that can be imaged with the composition represented by the target composition data K that is associated with the target composition data K acquired by the target composition data acquisition unit 20. The position data Jl is acquired from the server via an external network (step ST3). The target composition data includes information indicating the position and size of a predetermined landmark on the main captured image P and the position and size of a person's face, which represents the target composition. A landmark template used when detecting the predetermined landmark on the captured image Pp is attached.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the composition Fm represented by the target composition data K acquired by the target composition data acquisition unit 20, and the person's face F1 is located on the right side with the landmark L1 representing Tokyo Tower in the background. It is a composition.

  Here, the current position data acquisition unit 90 receives the GPS signal again and acquires current position data Jh (step ST4). Then, the imaging position guiding unit 110 calculates a difference between the positions based on the latest current position data Jh and the imaging position data Jl, and whether or not the difference is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, that is, the current position is It is determined whether or not it substantially coincides with the imaging position (step ST5). When it is determined that they do not coincide with each other, a sound Gl for guiding the photographer is output so that the difference in the position is reduced ( Step ST6) and return to step ST4. Here, the photographer moves in the direction guided by listening to the voice G1. On the other hand, when it is determined that they substantially match, the process shifts to a process of guiding the imaging conditions to the user or the person who is the subject so that the framed composition becomes the composition represented by the target composition data K.

  Here, the photographer determines the position and orientation of the digital camera so that the predetermined landmark enters the frame, and connects the digital camera to a tripod or the like or places it on a predetermined place as necessary. To fix the camera halfway.

  The imaging unit 10 performs preliminary imaging to obtain a preliminary captured image Pp (step ST7). The landmark detection unit 31 detects the predetermined landmark included in the preliminary captured image Pp by template matching using the template Tl, and obtains the position Lld and the size Sld of the landmark in the preliminary captured image Pp. (Step ST8). At this time, the pre-captured image Pp is converted into multiple resolutions to obtain a plurality of images having different resolutions (image sizes) in stages, and a template Tl having a fixed resolution is sequentially applied to the plurality of images. Matching is performed to detect a predetermined landmark.

  FIG. 4 shows a preliminary captured image Pp obtained by matching one of a plurality of images obtained by multi-resolution of the preliminary captured image Pp with the Tokyo Tower template Tl as a landmark template. It is the figure which showed the process which detects the Tokyo tower contained. While scanning the template Tl in the image to be detected, a correlation value is obtained between the template image pattern and the image pattern on the detection target at each position, and when this correlation value is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the template is located at that position. It is determined that the landmark represented by exists.

  The landmark position Lld and size Sld detected by the landmark detection unit 31 is compared with the landmark position Llt and size Slt represented by the target composition data K, respectively. The difference Dl is calculated (step ST9). The difference Dl is based on the amount of deviation and direction of the detected landmark position Lld relative to the landmark position Llt representing the target composition, and the area occupied by the landmark represented by the target composition. Of the area occupied by the detected landmark. Then, the zoom magnification / imaging direction guide unit 51 determines whether or not the positional deviation amount is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold and the relative ratio of the areas is within a predetermined range, that is, the composition of the framed landmark. It is determined whether or not the composition of the landmark that is the target substantially matches (step ST10). If it is determined that they do not match, the direction of the zoom magnification to be changed to reduce the difference, the camera The voice Gc for guiding the direction of the movement is output (step ST11), and the process returns to step ST7. Here, the photographer changes the zoom magnification setting, the camera orientation, and the like while listening to the guided voice Gc. On the other hand, when it is determined that they are almost the same, the process is such that the composition of the face of the framed person becomes the composition represented by the target composition data K and guides the direction of movement to the person as the subject. And migrate.

  FIG. 5 shows a composition in which the composition Fm0 including the landmark (Tokyo Tower) L2 framed by the camera substantially coincides with the landmark L1 indicated by the target composition by changing the zoom magnification or the direction of the camera. It is a figure which shows the example changed into Fm1.

  Here, when the user wants to take an image of himself / herself as a subject, the user moves to the front of the digital camera so as to enter the frame.

  The face detection unit 32 generates a face of a person included in the preliminary captured image Pp from the registered face when the face of a specific person is registered by the standard face template Tf or the face data registration unit 80. Detection is performed by template matching using the template Tfr of the specific face corresponding to the registered face, and the position Lfd and size Sfd of the face in the preliminary captured image Pp are obtained (step ST12). At this time, as in the case of detecting the landmark, the pre-captured image Pp is multi-resolutioned to obtain a plurality of images having different resolutions (image sizes) in stages, and the resolution is sequentially increased with respect to the plurality of images. Template matching is performed by applying the fixed template Tl to detect a human face. When a person other than the person to be imaged enters the framed frame, if the face of the person to be imaged is registered in advance by the face data registration unit 80, the face of another person is erroneously detected. It does n’t have to be. For example, when taking an image of himself / herself, his / her face is registered in advance.

  The face position Lfd and size Sfd detected by the face detection unit 32 is compared with the face position Lft and size Sft represented by the target composition data K, respectively, to calculate a face position and size difference Df. (Step ST13). This difference Df is detected when the amount of deviation and the direction of the detected face position Lft when the face position Lft representing the target composition is used as a reference and the area occupied by the face represented by the target composition are used as a reference. Is defined by the relative ratio of the area occupied by the face. Then, the face position guide unit 52 determines whether or not the positional deviation amount is equal to or smaller than a predetermined threshold and the relative ratio of the areas is within a predetermined range, that is, the face whose framed composition is the target. (Step ST14), and when it is determined that they do not match, the voice Gf that guides the direction in which the person who is the subject should move is reduced in order to reduce the difference. Output (step ST15), the process returns to step ST7. Here, the person who is the subject moves according to the guidance of the voice Gf and corrects the position. On the other hand, when it is determined that they are almost the same, the process proceeds to a process for notifying that the preparation for imaging has been completed and permitting imaging.

  FIG. 6 shows the composition of the landmark (Tokyo Tower) L2 framed by the camera and the face F2 of the person to be imaged. It is a figure which shows the example which the face F2 changed into the composition Fm2 substantially corresponded to the landmark L1 which the target composition shows, and the person's face F1.

  The alarm output unit 60 informs the user by alarm sound and voice that the framed composition substantially matches the target composition and is ready for shooting (step ST16). Then, the imaging permission unit 70 permits the actual imaging by the imaging unit 10, and enters a state of accepting a shooting operation by the user, for example, pressing of a shutter button in the camera body or an imaging request signal by a remote controller (step ST17). Here, the imaging unit 10 determines whether or not a shooting operation has been performed (step ST18). When it is determined that the operation has been performed, the main imaging is performed to obtain the main captured image P (step ST19). Returning to step ST7, on the other hand, if it is determined that the operation is not performed, the process returns to step ST7 without performing the main imaging.

  Next, processing performed in the present embodiment when the mode is the control mode will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing processing performed in the control mode.

  First, the current position data acquisition unit 90 receives a GPS signal and acquires current position data Jh (step ST21). Then, the target composition data acquisition unit 20 transmits the current position data Jh acquired by the current position data acquisition unit 90 to a predetermined server via an external network, and the server is identified by the current position data Jh. Depending on the position, target composition data including a predetermined landmark in the vicinity of the current position in the composition is selected from a plurality of target composition data prepared in advance and transmitted to the digital camera side. The acquisition unit 20 acquires the target composition data transmitted from the server (step ST22). In addition, the imaging position data acquisition unit 30 identifies an imaging position that can be imaged with the composition represented by the target composition data K that is associated with the target composition data K acquired by the target composition data acquisition unit 20. The position data Jl is acquired from the server via an external network (step ST23). The target composition data includes information indicating the position and size of a predetermined landmark on the main captured image P and the position and size of a person's face, which represents the target composition. A landmark template used when detecting the predetermined landmark on the captured image Pp is attached.

  Here, the current position data acquisition unit 90 receives the GPS signal again and acquires current position data Jh (step ST24). Then, the imaging position guiding unit 110 calculates a difference between the positions based on the latest current position data Jh and the imaging position data Jl, and whether or not the difference is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, that is, the current position is It is determined whether or not it substantially coincides with the imaging position (step ST25). When it is determined that they do not coincide with each other, a sound Gl for guiding the photographer is output so that the difference in the position is reduced ( Step ST26), the process returns to step ST24. Here, the photographer moves in the direction guided by listening to the voice G1. On the other hand, when it is determined that they are almost the same, the process shifts to a process of controlling the imaging conditions so that the framed composition becomes the composition represented by the target composition data K, or guiding the person as the subject. To do.

  Here, the photographer determines the position and orientation of the digital camera so that the predetermined landmark enters the frame, and connects the digital camera to a tripod or the like or places it on a predetermined place as necessary. To fix the camera.

  The imaging system control unit 120 controls the zoom lens drive motor for changing the zoom magnification, and sets the zoom magnification to the minimum, that is, the widest angle side (step ST27). The imaging unit 10 performs preliminary imaging to obtain a preliminary captured image Pp (step ST28). The landmark detection unit 31 detects the predetermined landmark included in the preliminary captured image Pp by template matching using the template Tl, and obtains the position Lld and the size Sld of the landmark in the preliminary captured image Pp. (Step ST29). At this time, the pre-captured image Pp is converted into multiple resolutions to obtain a plurality of images having different resolutions (image sizes) in stages, and a template Tl having a fixed resolution is sequentially applied to the plurality of images. Matching is performed to detect a predetermined landmark.

  The landmark position Lld and size Sld detected by the landmark detection unit 31 is compared with the landmark position Llt and size Slt represented by the target composition data K, respectively. The difference Dl is calculated (step ST30). The difference Dl is based on the amount of deviation and direction of the detected landmark position Lld relative to the landmark position Llt representing the target composition, and the area occupied by the landmark represented by the target composition. Of the area occupied by the detected landmark. Then, the imaging system control unit 120 sets whether the positional deviation amount is equal to or smaller than a predetermined threshold and the relative ratio of the areas is within a predetermined range, that is, the composition of the framed landmark. It is determined whether or not it substantially matches the composition of the landmark (step ST31). If it is determined that they do not match, the drive motor is controlled to reduce the difference so that the zoom magnification and the camera direction are adjusted. Change (step ST32) and return to step ST28. On the other hand, when it is determined that they are almost the same, the process is such that the composition of the face of the framed person becomes the composition represented by the target composition data K and guides the direction of movement to the person as the subject. And migrate.

  Here, when the user wants to take an image of himself / herself as a subject, the user moves to the front of the digital camera so as to enter the frame.

  The face detection unit 32 generates a face of a person included in the preliminary captured image Pp from the registered face when the face of a specific person is registered by the standard face template Tf or the face data registration unit 80. Detection is performed by template matching using the template Tfr of the specific face corresponding to the registered face, and the position Lfd and size Sfd of the face in the preliminary captured image Pp are obtained (step ST33). At this time, as in the case of detecting the landmark, the pre-captured image Pp is multi-resolutioned to obtain a plurality of images having different resolutions (image sizes) in stages, and the resolution is sequentially increased with respect to the plurality of images. Template matching is performed by applying the fixed template Tl to detect a human face. When a person other than the person to be imaged enters the framed frame, if the face of the person to be imaged is registered in advance by the face data registration unit 80, the face of another person is erroneously detected. It does n’t have to be.

  The face position Lfd and size Sfd detected by the face detection unit 32 and the face position Lft and size Sft represented by the target composition data K are respectively compared to calculate a face position and size difference Df. (Step ST34). This difference Df is detected when the amount of deviation and the direction of the detected face position Lft when the face position Lft representing the target composition is used as a reference and the area occupied by the face represented by the target composition are used as a reference. Is defined by the relative ratio of the area occupied by the face. Then, the face position guide unit 52 determines whether or not the positional deviation amount is equal to or smaller than a predetermined threshold and the relative ratio of the areas is within a predetermined range, that is, the face whose framed composition is the target. (Step ST35), and when it is determined that they do not match, the voice Gf that guides the direction in which the person who is the subject should move is reduced in order to reduce the difference. Output (step ST36), the process returns to step ST28. Here, the person who is the subject moves according to the guidance of the voice Gf and corrects the standing position. On the other hand, when it is determined that they are almost the same, the process proceeds to a process for notifying that the preparation for imaging has been completed and permitting imaging.

  The alarm output unit 60 informs the user by alarm sound and voice that the framed composition substantially matches the target composition and is ready for shooting (step ST37). Then, the imaging permission unit 70 permits the actual imaging by the imaging unit 10, and enters a state of accepting an imaging operation by the user, for example, pressing of a shutter button on the camera body or an imaging request signal by a remote controller (step ST38). Here, the imaging unit 10 determines whether or not an imaging operation has been performed (step ST39). If it is determined that the operation has been performed, the actual imaging is performed to obtain the captured image P (step ST40). Returning to step ST28, on the other hand, if it is determined that the operation is not performed, the process returns to step ST28 without performing the main imaging.

  As described above, according to the digital camera according to the present embodiment, a composition that represents a target composition when capturing an image, that is, a composition that represents the position and size at which a predetermined subject to be imaged should be arranged on the captured image P is set. Then, the predetermined subject is detected on the preliminary captured image Pp obtained by preliminary imaging, and the difference between the position and size of the detected subject and the target position and size is calculated. In order to reduce the difference, guidance is provided for at least one of the zoom magnification of the digital camera, the direction of the camera, and the position of the predetermined subject. Even if it exists, the imaging condition for obtaining a target composition can be easily prepared by following the guidance, and the photograph according to the set composition can be easily taken.

  In the present embodiment, since the digital camera includes the face position guide unit 52, particularly when taking a photograph including itself in the composition, the composition becomes a target composition by moving according to the guidance. Therefore, it is possible to take an image according to the target composition without requesting a third party to take an image.

  In the present embodiment, since the alarm output unit 60 that notifies the user when the difference corresponding to the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value is provided, the user can set the imaging condition. You can know that you are ready without looking at the frame, which is convenient when you image yourself.

  In the present embodiment, the imaging permission unit 70 that permits the actual imaging when the difference corresponding to the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold is provided. Therefore, there is no need to delete the image data obtained by such erroneous imaging later. In addition, when this “permission” is to perform actual imaging itself, the actual imaging is performed according to the intended composition without requesting a third party to press the shutter button or outputting an imaging request signal from the remote control. There is also an advantage that can be performed. In this case, the image may not be captured immediately after the imaging conditions are set, but may be captured after a short time by the timer function.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a face data registration unit 80 that registers the face of a specific person is provided, and the face detection unit 32 detects the registered face on the preliminary captured image Pp. If the other person's face is registered in advance, even if another person enters the frame, the other person's face is not detected by mistake, and appropriate guidance can be expected.

  In the present embodiment, since the target composition data is selected and obtained from a plurality of prepared data, it is possible to prepare in advance data with a good composition considered by a professional photographer. Even an amateur photographer who does not have a high level of imaging technology can easily capture images with a beautiful composition that professionals think.

  For example, the target composition data acquisition unit 20 may determine the position and size of the predetermined subject to be arranged on the main captured image P in accordance with the operation of the manual input means provided in the camera. Good. In this way, the composition represented by the acquired target composition data can be adjusted according to preference, and if a function for capturing an image to be used as a background by provisional imaging is provided, the desired composition can be obtained on the spot. You can set the background and the position of the person's face, and the variations will expand.

  In the present embodiment, the target composition data acquisition unit 20 acquires the target composition data from the outside of the digital camera via a network, so that a large amount of data can be stored without storing a large amount of data in the camera body. Therefore, it is possible to acquire appropriate target composition data from the memory, which saves memory. If the target composition data existing on the external network is updated sequentially, the latest target composition data can always be acquired.

  In the present embodiment, the current position data acquisition unit 90 is provided, and the target composition data acquisition unit 20 selects target composition data including a landmark existing in the vicinity of the current position represented by the current position data Jh as a predetermined subject. Therefore, the target composition data including the landmark related to the current position can be automatically acquired, and the composition that the user is likely to want to capture can be acquired without complicated work.

  In the present embodiment, the imaging position data acquisition unit 100 that acquires imaging position data Jl that specifies an imaging position that can be imaged with the composition represented by the acquired target composition data K, the current position data Jh, and the imaging position Since it has an imaging position guidance unit that guides the photographer to the imaging position based on the data Jl, even if it is not clear from where the image should be taken for imaging with the target composition You can get to the place without getting lost.

  In the present embodiment, the imaging system control unit 120 that controls the zoom magnification of the imaging unit 10 or the direction of the camera is provided so as to reduce the difference based on the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation unit 40. Therefore, the composition to be framed can be automatically brought close to the target composition without performing complicated work.

  In this embodiment, the target composition data represents a composition in which both a landmark and a person's face are subjects. For example, the target composition data is a composition in which only a landmark or only a person's face is a subject. May be.

  Further, it is preferable that the image of the composition represented by the target composition data K is displayed on a monitor (not shown) in a translucent manner so that it can be confirmed together with the through image.

  The preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described above. However, the method and apparatus of the present invention and the program therefor are not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various increases, decreases and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention. Can be added.

1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a digital camera according to an embodiment of the present invention. Flow chart showing processing in the present embodiment in the guidance mode The figure which shows an example of the composition which target composition data represents Figure showing an example of a landmark template A figure showing how the composition of the landmarks almost matches the target composition A figure showing how the composition of the landmark and the person's face almost matches the target composition Flow chart showing processing in the present embodiment in the control mode

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Imaging part 20 Target composition data acquisition part 30 Subject detection part 31 Landmark detection part 32 Face detection part 40 Subject difference calculation part 41 Landmark difference calculation part 42 Face difference calculation part 50 Imaging condition guidance part 51 Zoom magnification and imaging direction guidance Unit 52 face position guide unit 60 alarm output unit 70 imaging permission unit 80 face data registration unit 90 current position data acquisition unit 100 imaging position data acquisition unit 110 imaging position guidance unit 120 imaging system control unit

Claims (11)

In an imaging apparatus that repeatedly performs preliminary imaging in a shooting standby state, sequentially captures preliminary captured images, and performs actual imaging in response to an imaging operation to obtain the actual captured image.
Target composition information for obtaining target composition information that represents a composition that is a target at the time of imaging, and that represents a position and a size at which at least one predetermined subject to be imaged should be arranged on the main captured image Acquisition means;
Subject detection means for detecting the predetermined subject included in the preliminary captured image;
Subject difference calculation means for comparing the position and size of the subject detected by the subject detection means with the position and size of the predetermined subject represented by the target composition information;
Guidance for guiding at least one of the zoom magnification of the imaging device, the orientation of the imaging device, and the position of the predetermined subject so that the difference is reduced based on the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation means. And an imaging device.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a notifying unit that notifies when the difference corresponding to the difference calculated by the subject difference calculating unit is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an imaging permission unit that permits the main imaging when a difference corresponding to the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation unit is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. The predetermined subject includes a human face;
A face registration unit for registering a face of a specific person;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the subject detection means detects the registered specific face as the face of the person.   The target composition information acquisition unit determines a position and a size of the predetermined subject to be arranged on the main captured image in accordance with an operation of a manual input unit provided in the imaging apparatus. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the imaging apparatus is characterized.   5. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the target composition information acquisition unit acquires the target composition information by selecting from a plurality of different target composition information.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the target composition information acquisition unit acquires the target composition information from outside the imaging apparatus via a network. The predetermined subject includes a landmark;
It further comprises current position information acquisition means for acquiring current position information for specifying the current position,
7. The target composition information acquisition unit is configured to select and acquire target composition information including a landmark present near the current position represented by the current position information as the predetermined subject. Or the imaging device of 7. Imaging position information acquisition means for acquiring imaging position information for specifying an imaging position that can be imaged with the composition represented by the acquired target composition information;
9. The imaging apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising imaging position guidance means for guiding a photographer to the imaging position based on the current position information and the imaging position information. Further comprising control means for controlling the zoom magnification of the image pickup means or the orientation of the image pickup apparatus so that the difference is reduced based on the difference calculated by the subject difference calculation means;
The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the imaging condition guide means guides the position of the predetermined subject. An imaging condition guide method in an imaging apparatus that repeatedly performs preliminary imaging in a shooting standby state, sequentially captures preliminary captured images, and performs main imaging in response to an imaging operation to obtain a main captured image,
Obtaining target composition information that represents a composition that is a target at the time of imaging, and that represents a position and a size at which at least one predetermined subject to be imaged should be arranged on the main captured image;
Detecting the predetermined subject included in the preliminary captured image;
Comparing the position and size of the detected subject with the position and size of the predetermined subject represented by the target composition information, and calculating a difference between the position and size;
An imaging condition comprising a step of guiding at least one of the zoom magnification of the imaging device, the orientation of the imaging device, and the position of the predetermined subject so that the difference is reduced based on the calculated difference. Guidance method.

Images