JP2007322895A - Imaging apparatus and control method therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To attain appropriate photographing without having to provide a plurality of photometry means, which measure the luminance of a subject, even when photographing using a strobe in a finder mode in which the subject is displayed on an image display section. <P>SOLUTION: When an EVF mode for observing a subject by using the image display section (YES/step S300), and photographing is carried out using a strobe (YES/step S303), preliminary light emission is performed from the strobe (step S309 or S313), in response to the detection of a main mirror at a predetermined position (YES/step S304). Based on the photometry result by a photometry sensor during the preliminary light emission, main light emission at photographing is performed from the strobe (step S321). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus including a flash device such as a strobe and a control method thereof.

A conventional imaging device will be described below.
FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a mechanical configuration of a camera system (imaging device) in the invention of Patent Document 1. In FIG.
In the figure, reference numeral 801 denotes a camera body. Reference numeral 802 denotes a main mirror for guiding the light beam to the viewfinder, 803 denotes a focusing plate, 804 denotes a pentaprism, 805 denotes an eyepiece, 806 denotes a shutter, and 807 denotes an image sensor such as a CCD. Reference numeral 808 denotes an image display unit such as a liquid crystal, which displays a captured image.

  Reference numeral 810 denotes a photometric sensor that measures the luminance of the subject. Reference numeral 809 denotes a photometric lens, which is a lens for re-imaging an optical image of a subject formed on the focusing plate 803 by the photographing lens 820 and the main mirror 802 on the photometric sensor 810. Reference numeral 820 denotes a photographing lens, and reference numeral 821 denotes an aperture for adjusting the amount of light. Reference numeral 811 denotes a sub mirror, which is tilted along with the main mirror 802 in the photographing optical path in the finder observation state, and retracts out of the photographing optical path in the photographing state. In the viewfinder observation state, the sub mirror 811 bends the light beam transmitted through the oblique main mirror 802 downward and guides the light beam to the AF sensor 814 via the AF mirror 812 and the AF lens 813.

  Next, reference numeral 830 denotes a built-in strobe of the camera. In this built-in strobe 830, reference numeral 831 denotes a Xe tube, and 832 and 833 denote reflection shades and a Fresnel lens for collecting the strobe light generated from the Xe tube 831 and irradiating the subject. Reference numeral 840 denotes an external strobe of the camera. In this external strobe 840, 841 is a Xe tube, and 842 and 843 are reflection shades and a Fresnel lens for collecting the strobe light generated from the Xe tube 841 and irradiating the subject.

  The operation in the camera system of FIG. 10 will be briefly described. Pre-light emission with a predetermined amount of light is performed by the Xe tube 831 of the built-in strobe 830 or the Xe tube 841 of the external strobe 840 immediately before shooting, and subject luminance by pre-light emission is measured. Photometry is performed by the sensor 810. Then, the deviation of the measured luminance of the subject with respect to the appropriate exposure amount according to the set aperture value and ISO sensitivity is obtained, and the amount of the deviation is added to determine the main light emission amount to perform flash photography.

  This photometric sensor 810 measures subject luminance through a known logarithmic compression amplifier, and can measure a range of about 20 steps, unlike the case of performing photometry with the image sensor 807 shown in FIG. is there. This photometric sensor 810 can accurately measure from macro photography near the extreme to the far distance of the guide number, and can accurately control from a low-intensity built-in strobe to a high-intensity external strobe. Is possible.

  In the digital single-lens reflex camera described with reference to FIG. 10, it is common to use a so-called optical finder mode in which a subject is viewed through an eyepiece 805 at the time of photographing, and a photographed image is generally displayed on an image display unit 808. It is. However, a single-lens reflex camera has also been required to use a so-called electronic viewfinder mode in which a subject is viewed via the image display unit 808.

  In order to meet this requirement, as shown in FIG. 12, the main mirror 802 is composed of a half mirror that reflects and transmits a light beam with a predetermined transmittance in order to realize a live view by the image display unit 808. Then, the main mirror 802 is positioned at a predetermined angle with respect to the optical axis, and the sub-mirror 811 that guides the light beam to the AF is retracted, whereby the subject light that has always passed through the photographing lens 820 is imaged on the image sensor 807. can do. Therefore, in the electronic viewfinder mode, an image captured by the image sensor 807 may be displayed on the image display unit 808.

JP-A-9-61898

  However, when shooting using a strobe is started in the state of FIG. 12, the main mirror 802 is positioned at a predetermined angle with respect to the optical axis as shown in FIG. Accordingly, since the light beam (optical image of the subject) is not guided to the pentaprism 804 that guides the light to the photometric sensor 810, the optical image of the subject is not incident on the photometric sensor 810, and the photometric sensor 810 measures the luminance of the subject. I can't.

  In this case, in the mirror-up state of FIG. 11 which is a mirror state at the time of shooting, photometry and preliminary light emission are performed in the shutter-closed state by a photometric means comprising a condenser lens 815 and a photometric sensor 816 located at the bottom of the camera. Therefore, it was necessary to control the amount of emitted light for main light emission. That is, it is necessary to provide a photometric sensor 816 separately from the photometric sensor 810 in the viewfinder.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and a photometric means for measuring subject luminance is provided even when shooting using a strobe (flash device) in a finder mode for displaying a subject on an image display unit. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image pickup apparatus that realizes appropriate shooting without providing a plurality thereof, and a control method thereof.

  The image pickup apparatus of the present invention photometrically measures the brightness of a subject when the mirror is at a predetermined position, a flash unit that emits a flash to the subject, a mirror that moves between a subject observation state and a photographing state. Photometric means, mirror position detecting means for detecting the position of the mirror, and control means for controlling the amount of emitted light at the time of photographing by the flash means, wherein the control means is controlled by the mirror position detecting means. When the flash unit is detected to be in the predetermined position, the flash unit is preliminarily emitted, and based on the photometric result by the photometric unit when the flash unit is preliminarily emitted, the light emission amount at the time of photographing of the flash unit Is set.

  The control method of the image pickup apparatus of the present invention includes a flash unit that emits flash light on a subject, a mirror that moves between a subject observation state and a photographing state, and the subject when the mirror is at a predetermined position. A method for controlling an imaging apparatus, comprising: a photometric means for photometric measurement; a mirror position detecting means for detecting the position of the mirror; and a control means for controlling the amount of light emitted when the flash means is photographed. A detecting step for detecting that the mirror is at the predetermined position by a detecting means; a preliminary light emitting step for preliminarily emitting the flash means when detecting that the mirror is at the predetermined position; and the flashing means A photometric step of performing a photometric operation by the photometric means when the light is preliminarily emitted, and a light emission amount at the time of photographing by the flash means based on a photometric result of the photometric step And having a setting step of setting.

  According to the present invention, for example, even when shooting using a strobe (flash device) in the finder mode in which a subject is displayed on the image display unit, a plurality of metering means for metering the subject brightness can be provided. It is possible to perform proper shooting.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram mainly showing an electrical configuration of a camera system (image pickup apparatus) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 denotes a camera body.
Reference numeral 1 denotes a main mirror, which is obliquely installed in the photographing optical path in the finder observation state and retracts out of the photographing optical path in the photographing state. Further, the main mirror 1 is a half mirror, and when obliquely arranged in the photographing optical path, transmits about half of the light beam from the subject to a focus detection optical system described later. Reference numeral 2 denotes a focusing plate, on which an optical image of a subject formed by a photographing lens 301 described later is projected.

  Reference numeral 3 denotes a sub mirror, which is tilted along with the main mirror 1 in the photographing optical path in the viewfinder observation state, and retracts outside the photographing optical path in the photographing state. The sub-mirror 3 bends the light beam that has passed through the oblique main mirror 1 and guides it toward the focus detection unit 8 described later. At this time, the sub mirror 3 and the focus detection unit 8 constitute a focus detection optical system.

  Reference numeral 4 denotes a pentaprism for changing the finder optical path. Reference numeral 5 denotes an eyepiece, and the photographer can observe the photographing screen by observing the focus plate 2 from this window. The state where the eyepiece 5 can observe the photographing screen is referred to as “optical viewfinder mode (OVF mode)”.

  Reference numerals 6 and 7 respectively denote a photometric lens and a photometric sensor for measuring the subject luminance in the viewfinder observation screen. Since the photometric sensor 7 has a known logarithmic compression circuit, its output is logarithmically compressed. It will be. Reference numeral 8 denotes a known phase difference type focus detection unit.

  Reference numeral 9 denotes a focal plane shutter, and reference numeral 14 denotes an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS. Reference numeral 11 denotes a mirror position detection unit including a photo interrupter, a photo reflector, or a mechanically ON / OFF SW, and detects that the main mirror 1 is in a predetermined position when it is in an operating state.

  Reference numeral 16 denotes an A / D converter that converts an analog output signal of the image sensor 14 into a digital signal. A timing generation circuit 18 supplies a clock signal and a control signal to the image sensor 14, the A / D converter 16, and the D / A converter 26, and is controlled by the memory control circuit 22 and the system controller 50.

  An image processing circuit 20 performs predetermined pixel interpolation processing and color conversion processing on the data from the A / D converter 16 or the data from the memory control circuit 22. In the image processing circuit 20, predetermined calculation processing is performed using image data captured by the image sensor 14, and TTL AWB (auto white balance) processing is also performed based on the obtained calculation result.

  A memory control circuit 22 controls the A / D converter 16, the timing generation circuit 18, the image processing circuit 20, the image display memory 24, the D / A converter 26, the memory 30, and the compression / decompression circuit 32. The data of the A / D converter 16 is written into the image display memory 24 or the memory 30 via the image processing circuit 20 and the memory control circuit 22 or the data of the A / D converter 16 is directly passed through the memory control circuit 22. It is.

  Reference numeral 24 denotes an image display memory, 26 denotes a D / A converter, and 28 denotes an image display unit including a TFT / LCD. Display image data written in the image display memory 24 is stored in the D / A converter 26. Via the image display unit 28.

  Images taken sequentially by the image sensor 14 with the sub-mirror 3 retracted from the photographic lens 301 through the main mirror 1 that is a half mirror and reaching the image sensor 14 with the shutter 9 opened. Data is sequentially displayed on the image display unit 28. Thus, an electronic viewfinder function can be realized, and this state is referred to as an “electronic viewfinder mode (EVF mode)”.

  Reference numeral 30 denotes a memory for storing captured still image data and moving image data, and has a sufficient storage capacity for storing a predetermined number of still image data and moving image data for a predetermined time. The memory 30 can also be used as a work area for the system controller 50.

  A compression / decompression circuit 32 compresses and decompresses image data by adaptive discrete cosine transform (ADCT) or the like. The image data stored in the memory 30 is read and subjected to compression processing or decompression processing. Write to memory 30.

  Reference numeral 40 denotes a shutter control unit (exposure control means) for controlling the focal plane type shutter 9, and reference numeral 41 denotes a mirror control unit including a motor and a drive circuit for moving the main mirror 1 up and down. Reference numeral 50 denotes a system controller that controls the entire camera body 100, and reference numeral 52 denotes a second memory that stores constants, variables, programs, and the like for operation of the system controller 50.

Reference numeral 120 denotes a built-in strobe (built-in flash device) that is built into the camera body 100 and emits a flash on the subject.
In the built-in strobe 120, 121 is an Xe tube, 122 is a reflective shade, 123 is a light emission control circuit composed of an IGBT or the like that controls light emission of the Xe tube 121, and 124 generates a voltage of about 300 V for supplying power to the Xe tube 121. It is a charging circuit.

  Reference numeral 54 denotes a display unit made up of a liquid crystal display device, a speaker, and the like that displays the operation state of the camera, messages, and the like using characters, images, sounds, and the like in accordance with the execution of the program in the system controller 50. The display unit 54 is installed in a single or a plurality of positions near the operation unit of the camera body 100 so as to be easily visible, and is configured by a combination of, for example, an LCD, an LED, and a sounding element. In addition, the display unit 54 is configured with a part of the function at the lower part of the focus plate 2.

  Among the display contents of the display unit 54, what is displayed on the LCD or the like includes single shot / continuous shooting display, self-timer display, compression rate display, number of recorded pixels, number of recorded pixels, number of remaining images that can be captured, shutter There are speed display, aperture value display, exposure compensation display, and so on. In addition, flash display, red-eye reduction display, macro shooting display, buzzer setting display, clock battery remaining amount display, battery remaining amount display, error display, information display with multiple digits, and attachment / detachment of the recording medium 200 There are status display, communication I / F operation display, date / time display, and the like.

  Among the display contents of the display unit 54, what is displayed on the lower part of the focus plate 2 includes in-focus display, camera shake warning display, flash charge display, shutter speed display, aperture value display, and exposure correction. There are indications.

  Reference numeral 56 denotes an electrically erasable / recordable nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM. Reference numerals 60, 62, 64, 66, 68, and 70 are operation means for inputting various operation instructions of the system controller 50. One or a plurality of switches, dials, touch panels, pointing by line-of-sight detection, voice recognition devices, or the like. Consists of

Here, a specific description of these operating means will be given.
Reference numeral 60 denotes a mode dial switch, which can be set to switch each function mode such as power-off, shooting mode, playback mode, erase mode, and PC connection mode. Reference numeral 62 denotes a first shutter switch SW1, which is turned on during the operation of a shutter button (not shown) and instructs to start operations such as AF (autofocus) processing and AE (automatic exposure) processing.

  Reference numeral 64 denotes a second shutter switch SW2, which is turned on when the operation of a shutter button (not shown) is completed. The second shutter switch SW2 (64) instructs the start of a series of processing operations including exposure processing, development processing, and recording processing. The specific exposure process here is a process of writing the image data to the memory 30 via the A / D converter 16 and the memory control circuit 22 from the signal read from the image sensor 14. Further, the specific development processing here is processing using calculation in the image processing circuit 20 or the memory control circuit 22. Further, the specific recording process here is a process of reading the image data from the memory 30, compressing it by the compression / decompression circuit 32, and writing the image data to the recording medium 200.

  Reference numeral 66 denotes a finder mode setting switch for switching between the above-described optical finder (OVF) mode and electronic viewfinder (EVF) mode as a finder mode at the time of shooting. With this function, when photographing using the optical viewfinder, it is possible to save power by cutting off the current supply to the image display unit 28 including a TFT / LCD.

  Reference numeral 68 denotes a quick review ON / OFF switch, which sets a quick review function for automatically reproducing image data taken immediately after photographing.

An operation unit 70 includes various buttons and a touch panel.
The operation unit 70 includes a menu button, a set button, a macro button, a multi-screen playback page break button, a single shooting / continuous shooting / self-timer switching button, a menu movement + (plus) button, a menu movement− (minus) button, and the like. There is. In addition, the operation unit 70 is further provided with a reproduction image movement + (plus) button, a reproduction image-(minus) button, a shooting image quality selection button, an exposure correction button, a date / time setting button, and the like.

  Reference numeral 80 denotes a power supply control unit, which includes a battery detection circuit, a DC-DC converter, a switch circuit that switches blocks to be energized, and the like. The power control unit 80 detects whether or not the power source 86 such as a battery is attached, the type of the battery, and the remaining battery level, and controls the internal DC-DC converter based on the detection result and the instruction of the system controller 50. A sufficient voltage is supplied to each unit including the recording medium 200 for a necessary period.

  Reference numerals 82 and 84 denote connectors, and reference numeral 86 denotes a power supply unit including a primary battery such as an alkaline battery or a lithium battery, a secondary battery such as a NiCd battery, a NiMH battery, or a Li battery, or an AC adapter. Reference numeral 90 denotes an interface (I / F) with a recording medium 200 such as a memory card or a hard disk. A connector 92 connects to the recording medium 200 such as a memory card or a hard disk, and a recording medium attachment / detachment detection unit 98 detects whether the recording medium 200 is mounted on the connector 92. The interface 90 and the connector 92 are configured using a PCMCIA card, a CF (Compact Flash (registered trademark)) card, or the like that conforms to a standard.

  A communication unit 110 has various communication functions such as RS232C, USB, IEEE1394, P1284, SCSI, modem, LAN, and wireless communication. Reference numeral 112 denotes a connector for connecting the camera body 100 to another device by the communication unit 110, or an antenna in the case of wireless communication.

Reference numeral 200 denotes a recording medium such as a memory card or a hard disk.
The recording medium 200 includes a recording unit 202 composed of a semiconductor memory, a magnetic disk, or the like, an interface (I / F) 204 with the camera body 100, and a connector 206 for connecting with the camera body 100.

  Reference numeral 399 denotes a communication line for performing communication between a lens apparatus 300 described later and the system controller 50 on the camera body 100 side. Reference numeral 499 indicates a communication line for performing communication between an external strobe 400 described later and the system controller 50 on the camera body 100 side. It is.

Next, the lens device 300 will be described.
Reference numeral 301 denotes a photographic lens for allowing an optical image of the subject to pass through and forming an image on the image sensor 14. A focus control unit 302 includes a motor and a motor driving circuit for driving the photographing lens 301 in the optical axis direction and focusing.

  Reference numeral 303 denotes an object distance detection unit including an encoder for detecting the distance from the position of the photographing lens 301 to the object. Reference numeral 304 denotes an aperture for adjusting the amount of exposure to the image sensor 14 at the time of shooting in combination with the shutter 9, and reference numeral 305 denotes an aperture control unit including a motor for driving the aperture 304 and a motor drive circuit. A lens control microcomputer 306 controls the focus control unit 302 and the aperture control unit 305 described above and controls communication with the system controller 50 on the camera body 100 side.

  The lens device 300 is detachably attached to the camera body 100 via the lens mount 310. Further, it is electrically connected to the camera body 100 by a connector 311 comprising a serial communication line and a power supply unit.

Next, an external strobe (external flash device) 400 that is externally attached to the camera body 100 and emits flash to the subject will be described.
Reference numeral 401 denotes an Xe tube, 402 denotes a reflective shade, 403 denotes a light emission control circuit composed of an IGBT or the like that controls light emission of the Xe tube 401, and 404 denotes a charging circuit that generates a voltage of about 300 V for supplying power to the Xe tube 401. Reference numeral 405 denotes a power supply unit such as a battery that supplies power to the charging circuit 404, and 406 denotes a strobe control microcomputer that controls light emission and charging of the external strobe 400 and controls communication with the system controller 50 on the camera body 100 side. is there.

  The external strobe 400 is detachably attached to the camera body 100 via the hot shoe 410. Further, it is electrically connected to the camera body 100 by a connector 411 comprising a serial communication line and an X terminal (light emitting terminal).

  10 and 1, 801 in FIG. 10 is the camera body 100 in FIG. 1, 802 in FIG. 10 is the main mirror 1 in FIG. 1, 803 in FIG. 10 is the focusing plate 2 in FIG. 1, and 804 in FIG. The pentaprism 4 in FIG. 10 and 805 in FIG. 10 correspond to the eyepiece 5 in FIG. 10, 806 is the shutter 9 in FIG. 1, 807 in FIG. 10 is the image sensor 14 in FIG. 1, 808 in FIG. 10 is the image display unit 28 in FIG. 1, 809 in FIG. 10 is the photometric lens 6 in FIG. 810 in FIG. 10 corresponds to the photometric sensor 7 in FIG. Further, 811 in FIG. 10 corresponds to the sub mirror 3 in FIG. 1, 820 in FIG. 10 corresponds to the photographing lens 301 in FIG. 1, and 821 in FIG. 10 corresponds to the diaphragm 304 in FIG. 10 corresponds to the built-in strobe 120 in FIG. 1, 831 in FIG. 10 corresponds to the Xe tube 121 in FIG. 1, and 832 in FIG. 10 corresponds to the reflecting shade 122 in FIG. 10 corresponds to the external strobe 400 in FIG. 1, 841 in FIG. 10 corresponds to the Xe tube 401 in FIG. 1, and 842 in FIG. 10 corresponds to the reflective shade 402 in FIG. These things shown above are common things.

  10, FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are diagrams showing the operation state of the mirror in the camera system (imaging device). Specifically, FIG. 10 shows a state in the optical finder mode (OVF mode) composed of the light of the photographing lens 820, the reflection of the main mirror 802, the focus plate 803, the pentaprism 804, and the eyepiece 805 which is a finder optical system. ing. FIG. 12 shows a state in the electronic viewfinder mode (EVF mode) composed of the photographing lens 820, the transmission of the main mirror 802, the shutter 806 opened, and the light flux of the image sensor 807. FIG. 11 illustrates a shooting state including the photographing lens 820, the shutter 806 opened, and the image sensor 807.

Next, operations of the camera system (imaging device) according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
2 and 3 are flowcharts showing a control method of the camera system (imaging device) according to the embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the control operation by the system controller 50 will be described with reference to FIG.

  Upon power-on such as battery replacement, the system controller 50 initializes flags, control variables, and the like (step S101) and initializes the image display on the image display unit 28 to an OFF state (step S102). .

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines the setting of the mode dial 60 (step S103). If the result of this determination is that the mode dial 60 has been set to power OFF, the system controller 50 performs end processing (step S105) and then returns to step S103. As specific end processing, necessary parameters, setting values, and setting modes including flags, control variables, and the like are recorded in the non-volatile memory 56 so that the display of each display unit is ended. For example, an unnecessary power source of each part of the camera body including the display unit 28 is cut off.

  If the result of determination in step S103 is that the mode dial 60 has been set to the shooting mode, the process proceeds to step S106. If the result of determination in step S103 is that the mode dial 60 has been set to another mode, the system controller 50 executes processing according to the selected mode (step S104), and after completion of the processing Return to step S103.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines whether or not there is a problem in the operation of the camera body 100 due to the remaining capacity or operation status of the power supply unit 86 configured by a battery or the like by the detection of the power supply control unit 80 (step S106). . If there is a problem with the operation of the camera body 100 as a result of this determination, a predetermined warning display is performed using an image or sound using the display unit 54 (step S108), and the process returns to step S103.

  As a result of the determination in step S106, if there is no problem in the operation of the camera main body 100 with respect to the remaining capacity and the operation status of the power supply unit 86, the process proceeds to step S107. In step S <b> 107, the system controller 50 determines whether or not the operation state of the recording medium 200 has a problem in the operation of the camera body 100, particularly the recording / reproducing operation of the image data with respect to the recording medium 200. If there is a problem with the operation state of the recording medium 200 as a result of this determination, a predetermined warning is displayed by image or sound using the display unit 54 (step S108), and the process returns to step S103.

  On the other hand, if there is no problem in the operation state of the recording medium 200 as a result of the determination in step S107, various setting states of the camera main body 100 are displayed using images and sounds using the display unit 54 (step S109). If the image display of the image display unit 28 is ON, the image display unit 28 is also used to display various setting states of the camera body 100 using images and sounds.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines whether the quick review ON / OFF switch 68 is in an ON state or an OFF state (step S110). If the quick review flag is set to ON as a result of this determination, the quick review flag is set (step S111). If the quick review flag is set to OFF, the quick review flag is canceled (step S112). . The state of the quick review flag is stored in the internal memory of the system controller 50 or the second memory 52.

  After the end of step S111 or step S112, the system controller 50 subsequently determines what mode the finder mode set by the finder mode setting switch 66 is (step S113).

  If the electronic viewfinder mode (EVF mode) has been set by the viewfinder mode setting switch 66 as a result of the determination in step S113, the system controller 50 sets the EVF flag (step S114). Subsequently, the system controller 50 sets the state of the camera to the electronic viewfinder mode (EVF mode) (step S115). Specifically, the system controller 50 operates the main mirror 1 and the shutter 9 by the mirror control unit 41 and the shutter control unit 40 from the OVF mode state shown in FIG. 10 to set the EVF mode state shown in FIG. The image display on the display unit 28 is set to the ON state. Subsequently, the system controller 50 sets a through display state in which captured image data is sequentially displayed (step S116), and proceeds to step S119 in FIG.

  In the through display state in step S116, the data sequentially written in the image display memory 24 is sequentially displayed by the image display unit 28 via the memory control circuit 22 and the D / A converter 26, thereby enabling the electronic finder function. Realized. Here, the image display memory 24 stores data sequentially written via the image sensor 14, the A / D converter 16, the image processing circuit 20, and the memory control circuit 22.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S113 is that the optical finder mode (OVF mode) has been set by the finder mode setting switch 66, the system controller 50 cancels the EVF flag (step S117). Subsequently, the system controller 50 performs settings such as turning off the image display of the image display unit 28, and sets the state of the camera to the optical finder mode (OVF mode) (step S118). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S119 in FIG.

  In the optical finder mode (OVF mode), the electronic finder function by the image display unit 28 is not used, and shooting is performed using the optical finder (eyepiece 5). In this case, it is possible to reduce power consumption of the image display unit 28, the D / A converter 26, and the like that consume a large amount of power. The state of the EVF flag is stored in the internal memory of the system controller 50 or the second memory 52.

  After the end of step S116 or step S118, the system controller 50 continues the operation state of the first shutter switch SW1 (62), that is, whether the first shutter switch SW1 (62) is ON or OFF. Is determined (step S119). If the result of this determination is that the first shutter switch SW1 (62) is OFF, processing returns to step S103.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S119 is that the first shutter switch SW1 (62) is ON, then the system controller 50 determines the EVF flag stored in the internal memory or the second memory 52. The setting state is determined (step S120). As a result of this determination, if the EVF flag is set (EVF flag is ON), the system controller 50 sets the display state of the image display unit 28 to the freeze display state (step S121), and proceeds to step S122. .

  In the freeze display state in step S121, rewriting of image data to the image display memory 24 via the image sensor 14, the A / D converter 16, the image processing circuit 20, and the memory control circuit 22 is prohibited. Then, the image data last written in the image display memory 24 is displayed by the image display unit 28 via the memory control circuit 22 and the D / A converter 26, whereby the frozen video is displayed on the electronic viewfinder.

  On the other hand, if the EVF flag is canceled (EVF flag is OFF) as a result of the determination in step S120, the process proceeds to step S122.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 performs a distance measurement process to focus the photographing lens 301 on the subject, and then performs a light measurement process to determine an aperture value and a shutter time (step S122). Details of the photometric / ranging process step (step S122) will be described later with reference to FIG.

  After completion of the photometry / ranging processing step (step S122), the system controller 50 subsequently determines the setting state of the EVF flag stored in the internal memory or the second memory 52 (step S123). As a result of this determination, if the EVF flag is set (EVF flag is ON), the system controller 50 sets the display state of the image display unit 28 to the through display state (step S124), and proceeds to step S125. . Note that the through display state in step S124 is the same operating state as the through state in step S116.

  On the other hand, if the EVF flag is released (EVF flag is OFF) as a result of the determination in step S123, the process proceeds to step S125.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines the operation state of the second shutter switch SW2 (64), that is, whether the second shutter switch SW2 (64) is ON or OFF (step S125).

  If the result of determination in step S125 is that the second shutter switch SW2 (64) is OFF, the system controller 50 determines whether the first shutter switch SW1 (62) is ON or OFF ( Step S126). As a result of the determination in step S126, if the first shutter switch SW1 (62) is ON, the process returns to step S125, and if the first shutter switch SW1 (62) is OFF, the process returns to step S103.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S125 that the second shutter switch SW2 (64) is ON, the system controller 50 determines the setting state of the EVF flag stored in the internal memory or the second memory 52. (Step S127). As a result of this determination, if the EVF flag is set (EVF flag is ON), the system controller 50 sets the display state of the image display unit 28 to the fixed color display state (step S128), and the process proceeds to step S129. move on.

  In the fixed color display state in step S128, the captured image data written in the image display memory 24 via the image sensor 14, the A / D converter 16, the image processing circuit 20, and the memory control circuit 22 is replaced. The fixed color image data is displayed by the image display unit 28 via the memory control circuit 22 and the D / A converter 26, thereby displaying the fixed color image on the electronic viewfinder.

  On the other hand, if the EVF flag is released (EVF flag is OFF) as a result of the determination in step S127, the process proceeds to step S129.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 executes a photographing process including an exposure process for writing the photographed image data in the memory 30 and a developing process for reading out the image data written in the memory 30 and performing various image processes (step). S129). Here, the captured image data to be subjected to the exposure process is sent to the memory control circuit 22 via the image sensor 14, the A / D converter 16, the image processing circuit 20, and the memory control circuit 22, or directly from the A / D converter 16. It is input via this. The development process is performed using the memory control circuit 22 and, if necessary, the image processing circuit 20. Details of the above-described shooting process step (step S129) will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines the setting state of the quick review flag stored in the internal memory or the second memory 52 (step S130). As a result of this determination, if the quick review flag is set (the quick review flag is ON), the system controller 50 sets the image display of the image display unit 28 to the ON state (step S131), and displays the quick review display. This is performed (step S132). In this case, the image display unit 28 is always displayed as an electronic viewfinder even during shooting, and quick review display immediately after shooting is also performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S133.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S130 is that the quick review flag has been canceled (quick review flag is OFF), the process proceeds to step S133.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 reads the captured image data written in the memory 30, performs various image processing, or performs image compression processing, and then writes the image data to the recording medium 200. A recording process is executed (step S133). At this time, various types of image processing are performed using the memory control circuit 22 and, if necessary, the image processing circuit 20. The image compression processing is processing according to the mode set using the compression / decompression circuit 32. Details of the above-described recording process step (step S133) will be described later with reference to FIG.

  After step S133 of the recording process is completed, the system controller 50 continues to operate the second shutter switch SW2 (64), that is, the second shutter switch SW2 (64) is ON or OFF. Is determined (step S134).

  If the result of determination in step S134 is that the second shutter switch SW2 (64) is ON, the system controller 50 determines the setting state of the continuous shooting flag stored in the internal memory or the second memory 52. (Step S135). If the continuous shooting flag is set as a result of the determination in step S135, the process returns to step S129 to perform continuous shooting, and the next shooting is performed.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S135 is that the continuous shooting flag is not set, the process returns to step S134, and the current processing is repeated until the second shutter switch SW2 (64) is released (turned OFF). .

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, in the operation setting state in which the quick review display is performed immediately after shooting, the second shutter switch SW2 (64) is pressed when step S133 of the recording process is completed. If it is in the (ON) state, the quick review display on the image display unit 28 is continuously performed until the second shutter switch SW2 (64) is released, so the photographed image is carefully checked. It becomes possible.

  As a result of the determination in step S134, the second shutter switch SW2 (64) was released (turned OFF) when step S133 of the recording process was completed, or the second shutter switch SW2 (64 If the second shutter switch SW2 (64) is released (turned off) after the quick review display is continued and the photographed image is confirmed, the system controller continues. 50 determines whether or not a predetermined minimum review time has elapsed (step S136). As a result of this determination, if the predetermined minimum review time has not elapsed, the process waits in step S136 until the predetermined minimum review time has elapsed. On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S136 is that a predetermined minimum review time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S137.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines the setting state of the EVF flag stored in the internal memory or the second memory 52 (step S137). As a result of this determination, if the EVF flag is set (EVF flag is ON), the display state of the image display unit 28 is set to the through display state (step S138), and the process proceeds to step S140. In this case, after confirming the captured image by the quick review display on the image display unit 28, it is possible to enter a through display state in which image data captured for the next imaging is sequentially displayed.

  On the other hand, if the EVF flag is released (EVF flag is OFF) as a result of the determination in step S137, the image display of the image display unit 28 is set to the OFF state (step S139), and the process proceeds to step S140. In this case, after confirming the photographed image by the quick review display on the image display unit 28, the function of the image display unit 28 is stopped for power saving, and the image display unit 28 or D / A conversion with large power consumption is stopped. It is possible to reduce the power consumption of the device 26 and the like.

  After the end of step S138 or step S139, the system controller 50 continues the operation state of the first shutter switch SW1 (62), that is, whether the first shutter switch SW1 (62) is ON or OFF. Is determined (step S140). If the result of this determination is that the first shutter switch SW1 (62) is ON, the system controller 50 returns to step S125 to prepare for the next shooting. On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S140 is that the first shutter switch SW1 (62) is OFF, the system controller 50 ends a series of shooting operations and returns to step S103.

Next, details of the photometry / ranging process in step S122 of FIG. 3 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing detailed processing of the photometry / ranging process in step S122 of FIG.

  First, the system controller 50 determines whether or not the EVF flag is set (EVF flag is ON) based on the setting state of the EVF flag stored in the internal memory or the second memory 52 (step S200). ).

  If the EVF flag is set (EVF flag is ON) as a result of the determination in step S200, the system controller 50 subsequently determines whether or not there is a problem with distance measurement (step S201). In this case, whether or not the distance measurement is satisfactory is detected by the focus detection unit 8 including the AF mirror 812, the AF lens 813, and the AF sensor 814 using the light beam guided by the reflection from the main mirror 802 shown in FIG. The determination is made based on whether or not the amount of focus deviation is within the focusing range.

  If distance measurement is a problem (out of focus range) as a result of the determination in step S201, then the system controller 50 instructs the lens control microcomputer 306 to perform focus drive and performs AF control (step S202). ). At this time, the lens control microcomputer 306 controls the focus control unit 302 according to the focus drive amount or the focus drive speed commanded from the system controller 50 and drives the photographing lens 301 in the optical axis direction. Thereafter, the process returns to step S201 to perform in-focus determination.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S201 is that there is no problem with distance measurement (within the in-focus range), the system controller 50 reads the charge signal from the image sensor 14 and the image processing circuit 20 via the A / D converter 16. In step S203, control is performed to sequentially read captured image data. Using the sequentially read image data, the image processing circuit 20 performs a predetermined calculation used for the TTL (through-the-lens) type AE (automatic exposure) processing. In each processing here, a specific portion of the total number of photographed pixels is extracted by extracting a necessary portion according to necessity and used for calculation. Thereby, in each process of AE of TTL system and AWB, it becomes possible to perform an optimal calculation for each of the different modes of the center weight mode, the average mode, and the evaluation mode.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines whether exposure (AE) has no problem using the above-described calculation result in the image processing circuit 20 (step S204). If exposure (AE) is a problem as a result of this determination, AE control is performed using a combination of the aperture controller 305 and the electronic shutter of the image sensor 14 (step S205). A diaphragm drive command from the system controller 50 to the lens device 300 is commanded by a known serial communication via the communication line 399 between the camera body 100 and the lens device 300. Subsequently, the system controller 50 performs white balance (AWB) control on the image processing circuit 20 (step S206). Thereafter, the process returns to step S204.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S204 is that there is no problem with exposure (AE), the system controller 50 stores measurement data and setting parameters in the internal memory or the second memory 52. Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines whether there is no problem in white balance (AWB) using the calculation result in the image processing circuit 20 and the measurement data obtained by the AE control (step S207).

  If the result of the determination in step S207 is that there is a problem with white balance (AWB), the process returns to step S206, and the system controller 50 adjusts the parameters of the color processing using the image processing circuit 20 to perform AWB control. On the other hand, if there is no problem with white balance (AWB) as a result of the determination in step S207, the system controller 50 stores the measurement data and setting parameters in the internal memory or the second memory 52, and performs the photometry / ranging process. finish.

  On the other hand, if the EVF flag is not set (ie, the EVF flag is ON) as a result of the determination in step S200, that is, in the optical finder mode, the system controller 50 subsequently determines whether there is no problem with distance measurement. Judgment is made (step S210). Whether or not the distance measurement in step S210 is a problem is determined based on the amount of focus deviation detected by the focus detection unit 8 of the TTL phase difference method using the light beam guided by the reflection from the submirror 811 shown in FIG. Depending on whether or not it is within the focusing range.

  If distance measurement is a problem (out of focus range) as a result of the determination in step S210, then the system controller 50 instructs the lens control microcomputer 306 to perform focus drive and performs AF control (step S211). ). At this time, the lens control microcomputer 306 controls the focus control unit 302 according to the focus drive amount or the focus drive speed commanded from the system controller 50 and drives the photographing lens 301 in the optical axis direction. Thereafter, the process returns to step S210 in order to perform in-focus determination.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S210 is that there is no problem with distance measurement (within the focusing range), the system controller 50 performs photometry of steady light by the photometric sensor 7 (step S212). Subsequently, the system controller 50 calculates an exposure value according to the photometric result in step S212 and the set ISO sensitivity (step S213). Thereafter, the photometry / ranging process ends.

Next, details of the photographing process in step S129 of FIG. 3 will be described.
5A, 5B, and 6 are flowcharts showing detailed processing of the photographing processing in step S129 in FIG.

  First, the system controller 50 determines whether or not the EVF flag is set (EVF flag is ON) based on the setting state of the EVF flag stored in the internal memory or the second memory 52 (FIG. 5). -1 step S300). As a result of the determination, if the EVF flag is not set (EVF flag is ON), the process proceeds to step S331 in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the EVF flag is set (EVF flag is ON) as a result of the determination in step S300, the system controller 50 drives the shutter control unit 40 to close the shutter 9 (step S301). .

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 controls the camera state so as to change from the EVF mode state shown in FIG. 12 to the mirror-up state which is the photographing operation mode state shown in FIG. 11 (step S302). Specifically, the system controller 50 controls the mirror control unit 41 and the shutter control unit 40 to operate the main mirror 1 (main mirror 802) and the shutter 9 (shutter 806) to enter the mirror-up state.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines whether to perform flash photography using a strobe (step S303). The determination in step S303 is made based on the photometric result obtained in step S122 in FIG. 3, or based on whether or not the flash photographing mode (flash mode) is set. If the result of determination in step S303 is that flash photography is not performed, processing proceeds to step S318.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S303 is that flash photography is to be performed, then the system controller 50 determines whether or not the main mirror 1 (main mirror 802) is located at a predetermined position (default position). (Step S304). Specifically, the system controller 50 is disposed at a predetermined position on the main mirror 1 (main mirror 802) detected by the mirror position detection unit 11 during the mirror up operation started in step S302 based on the position information. Judge whether or not. This predetermined position (predetermined position) is a predetermined amount before reaching the position of the main mirror 802 in the OVF mode shown in FIG. 10 by starting the mirror up operation from the position of the main mirror 802 in the EVF mode in FIG. This is the position indicated by [1] of the main mirror 802 shown in FIG. If the result of the determination in step S304 is that the main mirror 1 (main mirror 802) is not located at a predetermined position, the process returns to step S302.

  On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S304 is that the main mirror 1 (main mirror 802) is located at a predetermined position, then the system controller 50 determines whether the strobe that performs light emission control is the external strobe 400. It is determined whether or not (step S305). Here, in the present embodiment, an external strobe 400 and a built-in strobe 120 are provided as strobes for performing light emission control.

  If the result of the determination in step S305 is that the strobe performing light emission control is not the external strobe 400, that is, the built-in strobe 120, then the system controller 50 starts photometry of steady light by the photometric sensor 7 ( Step S306). The position of the main mirror 802 (main mirror 1) at this time is the position shown in [1] in FIG. 13 because it is in the EVF mode state, and the position of the main mirror with respect to the position [2] of the main mirror in the OVF mode state Is in a standing position.

The photometric range of the photometric sensor 7 in this state will be described with reference to FIG.
The thick frame in FIG. 8A indicates the angle of view 501, and 502 indicates the position of the sensor portion of the photometric sensor 7 (photometric sensor 810) divided into 35 with respect to the angle of view 501. In the case of the OVF mode shown in FIG. 10, the light beam is indicated by [2] ′ in FIG. That is, in the photometric range, photometry is performed with respect to the angle of view 501 with the sensor unit “18” of the photometric sensor 7 (photometric sensor 810) as the center.

  On the other hand, the position of the main mirror detected in step S304 is positioned in a state standing with respect to the OVF mode as described above. Therefore, the luminous flux becomes a luminous flux as shown in [1] ′ in FIG. 13, and the image is formed on the photometric sensor 810 (photometric sensor 7) through the photometric lens 809 (photometric lens 6). The angle of view 503 shown in the dotted line frame in FIG. That is, in this case, the photometry range is such that photometry is performed with respect to the angle of view 503 around the sensor unit “11” of the photometry sensor 7 (photometry sensor 810). Therefore, the photometry of the steady light in step S306 is performed by performing photoelectric conversion using the photometry area from the sensor units “1” to “21” of the photometry sensor 7 (photometry sensor 810) as an effective photometry area and integrating for a predetermined time. Photometry is performed at.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 starts A / D conversion by an A / D converter (not shown) in the system controller 50 with respect to the electrical signal of the photometric sensor 7 obtained from the photometric result in step S306 ( Step S307). Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines whether or not the A / D conversion process in step S307 is completed (step S308). If the result of this determination is that the A / D conversion processing in step S307 has not been completed, processing returns to step S307. On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S308, if the A / D conversion processing in step S307 is completed, the system controller 50 outputs a light emission signal based on the photometry result in step S306 to the built-in flash 120 (step S309). As a result, a pre-emission (preliminary emission) with a predetermined amount of light is performed from the built-in flash 120 based on the photometric result in step S306.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 controls the photometric sensor 7 to perform photometry of the reflected light from the subject in the flash light emitted by the predetermined pre-emission by the built-in flash 120 (step S314). The state of the main mirror 802 (main mirror 1) at the time of this pre-light emission is operating in the mirror up state of the photographing mode. That is, the position of the main mirror at the time of photometry performed with the steady light is positioned from the time of photographing a predetermined amount (when the mirror is raised) shown in [3] in FIG. Therefore, the luminous flux becomes the luminous flux indicated by [3] ′ in FIG. 13, and the angle of view becomes the angle of view 504 indicated by the dotted frame in FIG. 8B. In this case, in the photometry range, photometry is performed around the sensor section “25” of the photometry sensor 7 (photometry sensor 810) with respect to the angle of view 504. Therefore, in the photometry of the subject reflected light in step S314, photoelectric conversion is performed using the photometry area from the sensor units “15” to “35” of the photometry sensor 7 as an effective photometry area, and integration is performed for a predetermined time. Photometry is performed. That is, in the photometric sensor 7 (photometric sensor 810), the sensor units “1” to “21” are used as the photometric area at the time of constant light photometry, and the sensor units “15” to “35” are used as the photometric area at the time of pre-emission. Is going on.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 starts A / D conversion by an A / D converter (not shown) in the system controller 50 with respect to the electrical signal of the photometric sensor 7 obtained from the photometric result in step S314 ( Step S315). Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines whether or not the A / D conversion process in step S315 is completed (step S316). If the result of this determination is that the A / D conversion processing in step S315 has not been completed, processing returns to step S315.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S316 is that the A / D conversion processing in step S315 has been completed, the system controller 50 calculates the main light emission amount (step S317). Specifically, the system controller 50 first extracts only the subject reflected light component by pre-emission by subtracting the photometry data at the time of stationary light obtained at step S306 from the photometry data at the time of pre-emission obtained at step S314. To do. Next, the system controller 50 calculates the difference between the subject reflected light component and the photometric data of the photometric sensor 7 by the subject reflected light at the appropriate amount of light according to the ISO sensitivity of the image sensor 14 stored in advance in the internal memory. Obtain the amount of luminescence. As described above, since the output of the photometric sensor 7 is logarithmically compressed, the calculation can be performed by addition / subtraction. At this time, the addition / subtraction operation is shown in FIG. 8B at the time of pre-emission with respect to the photometry data at the position “1” of the sensor unit 502 within the photometry range shown in FIG. Addition / subtraction is performed from the photometric data at the position “15” of the sensor unit 502 within the photometric range.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S305 is that the strobe performing light emission control is the external strobe 400, then the system controller 50 starts photometry of steady light by the photometric sensor 7 (step S310). In step S310, as in step S306, photoelectric conversion is performed using the photometric areas from the sensor units “1” to “21” of the photometric sensor 7 as photometric effective areas, and the photometry of the stationary light is performed by integrating for a predetermined time. Is done.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 starts A / D conversion by an A / D converter (not shown) in the system controller 50 with respect to the electrical signal of the photometric sensor 7 obtained from the photometric result of step S310 ( Step S311). Along with this A / D conversion process, the system controller 50 measures the passage of time since the measurement of stationary light, and determines whether or not a predetermined time has passed since the measurement of stationary light (step S312). The predetermined time at this time is shorter than the time when the AD conversion in step S311 is completed.

  If it is determined in step S312 that the predetermined time has elapsed, then the system controller 50 outputs a light emission signal based on the photometric result in step S310 to the flash control microcomputer 406 of the external flash 400 (step S313). As a result, a predetermined amount of pre-emission (preliminary emission) based on the photometric result of step S310 is performed from the external flash 400. This light emission signal (pre-flash command) is output from the system controller 50 on the camera body 100 side to the flash control microcomputer 406 by known serial communication via the communication line 499 between the external flash 400 and the camera body 100.

  FIG. 9 is a timing chart at the time of steady light and pre-flash in the built-in flash 120 and the external flash 400. Here, FIG. 9A shows a timing chart of the built-in strobe 120 at the time of stationary light and pre-light emission, and FIG. 9B shows a timing chart of the external strobe 400 at the time of stationary light and pre-light emission.

  The light emission timing of the built-in flash 120 shown in FIG. 9A can be emitted without a delay time with respect to the light emission signal from the system controller 50. That is, the AD conversion completion timing and the pre-light emission timing based on the light emission signal in the electric signal of the photometry sensor 7 obtained by the measurement of the steady light may be simultaneously set. This process is as described in steps S306 to S309 and steps S314 to S316.

  However, in the case of the external flash 400, as described above, the light is emitted after serial communication. That is, if serial communication is performed after the AD conversion in step S311 is completed and the light emission signal in step S313 is output, the light control time is lengthened. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 9B, the communication time required for serial communication is subtracted from the time from the start of AD conversion to the completion of AD conversion in the electrical signal of the photometric sensor 7 obtained by metering of steady light. The measured time is counted as a predetermined time and a light emission signal is output. When the light emission signal is output (step S313), the system controller 50 controls the photometric sensor 7 to perform photometry of the reflected light from the subject in the flash emitted by the predetermined pre-emission by the external strobe 400 (step S313). Step S314).

  Subsequently, as described above, the system controller 50 uses the A / D converter (not shown) in the system controller 50 for the electrical signal of the photometric sensor 7 obtained from the photometric result in step S314. Conversion is started (step S315). When the A / D conversion in step S315 is completed (step S316 / YES), the system controller 50 calculates the main light emission amount (step S317).

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 controls the shutter control unit 40, opens the shutter 9 (step S318), and starts exposure of the image sensor 14 (step S319).

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines whether to perform flash photography using a strobe (step S320). The determination in step S320 is similar to the determination described in step S303. If flash photography is performed as a result of the determination in step S320, the system controller 50 causes the built-in flash 120 or the external flash 400 to perform main flash based on the main flash amount obtained in step S317 (step S321).

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 controls the shutter control unit 40 to close the shutter 9 after the predetermined exposure time has ended (step S322) and end the exposure of the image sensor 14 (step S323). Subsequently, the system controller 50 controls the mirror control unit 41 to perform a mirror down operation for returning the main mirror 802 (main mirror 1) to the mirror position in the electronic viewfinder mode shown in FIG. 11 (step S324). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S361 in FIG.

  As described above, if the EVF flag is not set (EVF flag is ON) as a result of the determination in step S300, the system controller 50 subsequently determines whether or not the flash mode is using the strobe. Judgment is made (step S331 in FIG. 5-2). The determination in step S331 is the same as the determination described in step S303. If the result of determination in step S331 is that flash photography is not to be performed, processing proceeds to step S345.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S303 is that flash photography is to be performed, then the system controller 50 determines whether or not the strobe that performs light emission control is the external strobe 400 (step S332). Here, in the present embodiment, an external strobe 400 and a built-in strobe 120 are provided as strobes for performing light emission control.

  If the result of the determination in step S332 is that the strobe performing light emission control is not the external strobe 400, that is, the built-in strobe 120, then the system controller 50 starts metering of steady light by the photometric sensor 7 ( Step S333). Here, the position of the main mirror 802 (main mirror 1) is in the position shown in FIG. 10 because it is in the OVF mode. That is, the center of the light beam is guided to the center with respect to the photometric sensor 7. Therefore, the photometry of the steady light in step S333 is performed by photoelectric conversion using the photometric areas from the sensor units “1” to “35” of the photometric sensor 7 shown in FIG. Metering is performed.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 starts A / D conversion by an A / D converter (not shown) in the system controller 50 with respect to the electrical signal of the photometric sensor 7 obtained from the photometric result in step S333 ( Step S334). Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines whether or not the A / D conversion process in step S334 has been completed (step S335). If the result of this determination is that the A / D conversion processing in step S334 has not been completed, processing returns to step S334. On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S335, if the A / D conversion processing in step S334 is completed, the system controller 50 outputs a light emission signal based on the photometry result in step S333 to the built-in flash 120 (step S336). As a result, a pre-emission (preliminary emission) with a predetermined amount of light is performed from the built-in flash 120 based on the photometric result of step S333.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 controls the photometric sensor 7 to measure the reflected light from the subject in the flash light emitted by the predetermined pre-emission by the built-in flash 120 (step S341).

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 starts A / D conversion by an A / D converter (not shown) in the system controller 50 with respect to the electrical signal of the photometric sensor 7 obtained from the photometric result in step S341 ( Step S342). Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines whether or not the A / D conversion process in step S342 is completed (step S343). If the result of this determination is that the A / D conversion processing in step S342 has not been completed, processing returns to step S342.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S343, if the A / D conversion process in step S342 is completed, the system controller 50 calculates the main light emission amount (step S344). Specifically, the system controller 50 first extracts only the subject reflected light component by pre-emission by subtracting the photometry data at the time of stationary light obtained at step S333 from the photometry data at the time of pre-emission obtained at step S341. To do. Next, the system controller 50 calculates the difference between the subject reflected light component and the photometric data of the photometric sensor 7 by the subject reflected light at the appropriate amount of light according to the ISO sensitivity of the image sensor 14 stored in advance in the internal memory. Obtain the amount of luminescence.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S332 is that the strobe performing light emission control is the external strobe 400, then the system controller 50 starts photometry of steady light by the photometric sensor 7 (step S337). In this step S337, similarly to step S333, photoelectric conversion is performed using the photometric areas from the sensor units “1” to “35” of the photometric sensor 7 as effective photometric areas, and the photometry of the steady light is performed by integrating for a predetermined time. Is done.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 starts A / D conversion by an A / D converter (not shown) in the system controller 50 with respect to the electrical signal of the photometric sensor 7 obtained from the photometric result in step S337 ( Step S338). Along with this A / D conversion process, the system controller 50 measures the passage of time since the measurement of stationary light and determines whether or not a predetermined time has passed since the measurement of stationary light (step S339). The predetermined time at this time is shorter than the time when the AD conversion in step S338 is completed.

  If it is determined in step S339 that the predetermined time has elapsed, then the system controller 50 outputs a light emission signal based on the photometric result in step S337 to the strobe control microcomputer 406 of the external strobe 400 (step S340). As a result, a predetermined amount of pre-emission (preliminary emission) is performed from the external strobe 400 based on the photometric result of step S337. This light emission signal (pre-flash command) is output from the system controller 50 on the camera body 100 side to the flash control microcomputer 406 by known serial communication via the communication line 499 between the external flash 400 and the camera body 100.

As described above, FIG. 9 is a timing chart at the time of steady light and pre-light emission in the built-in strobe 120 and the external strobe 400.
The light emission timing of the built-in flash 120 shown in FIG. 9A can be emitted without a delay time with respect to the light emission signal from the system controller 50. That is, the AD conversion completion timing and the pre-light emission timing based on the light emission signal in the electric signal of the photometry sensor 7 obtained by the measurement of the steady light may be simultaneously set. This process is as described in steps S306 to S309 and steps S314 to S316.

  However, in the case of the external flash 400, as described above, the light is emitted after serial communication. That is, if serial communication is performed after the AD conversion in step S338 is completed and the light emission signal in step S340 is output, the light control time is lengthened. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 9B, the communication time required for serial communication is subtracted from the time from the start of AD conversion to the completion of AD conversion in the electrical signal of the photometric sensor 7 obtained by metering of steady light. The measured time is counted as a predetermined time and a light emission signal is output. When the light emission signal is output (step S340), the system controller 50 controls the photometric sensor 7 to perform photometry of the reflected light from the subject in the flash emitted by the predetermined pre-emission by the external strobe 400 (step S340). Step S341).

  Subsequently, as described above, the system controller 50 uses the A / D converter (not shown) in the system controller 50 for the electrical signal of the photometric sensor 7 obtained from the photometric result in step S341. Conversion is started (step S342). When the A / D conversion in step S342 is completed (step S343 / YES), the system controller 50 calculates the main light emission amount (step S344).

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 controls the shutter control unit 40, opens the shutter 9 (step S345), and starts exposure of the image sensor 14 (step S346).

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines whether to perform flash photography using a strobe (step S347). The determination in step S347 is similar to the determination described in step S303. As a result of the determination in step S347, if flash photography is to be performed, the system controller 50 causes the built-in flash 120 or the external flash 400 to perform main flash based on the main flash amount obtained in step S344 (step S348).

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 controls the shutter control unit 40 to close the shutter 9 after the predetermined exposure time ends (step S349), and ends the exposure of the image sensor 14 (step S350). Subsequently, the system controller 50 controls the mirror control unit 41 to perform a mirror down operation for returning the main mirror 802 (main mirror 1) to the mirror position in the optical finder mode shown in FIG. 10 (step S351). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S361 in FIG.

  After the process of step S324 or step S351 is completed, the system controller 50 then writes the image data captured by the image sensor 14 by the process of steps S318 to S323 or steps S345 to S350 in the memory 30 (step S361). . In this case, the system controller 50 may write the image data in the image display memory 24.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 determines whether or not to perform frame processing based on, for example, the shooting mode set by the mode dial switch 60 (step S362). If the frame processing is not performed as a result of this determination, the photographing processing is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S362 that frame processing is to be performed, the system controller 50 causes the image processing circuit 20 to perform vertical addition processing of the captured image data (step S363). Subsequently, the system controller 50 causes the image processing circuit 20 to perform color conversion processing of the image data processed in step S363 (step S364). Subsequently, the system controller 50 causes the image processing circuit 20 to transfer the image data (display image data) processed in step S <b> 364 to the memory 30 and write it to the memory 30. In this case, the system controller 50 may control to write the image data in the image display memory 24. Thereafter, the photographing process is terminated.

Next, details of the recording process in step S133 in FIG. 3 will be described.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing detailed processing of the recording processing in step S133 of FIG.

  First, the system controller 50 reads out, for example, image data written in the memory 30 using the memory control circuit 22 and, if necessary, the image processing circuit 20, and sets the vertical / horizontal pixel ratio of the image sensor 14 to 1: 1. Interpolation pixel square processing is performed (step S401). Thereafter, the system controller 50 performs control to write the image data subjected to the pixel square processing into the memory 30.

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 reads the image data written in the memory 30 and causes the compression / decompression circuit 32 to perform image compression processing according to the mode set by the mode dial switch 60, for example (step S402). .

  Subsequently, the system controller 50 writes the compressed image data to the recording medium 200 such as a memory card or a compact strobe card via the interface 90 and the connector 92 (step S403). Thereafter, the recording process ends.

  As described above, in the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment, the EVF mode for observing a subject using the image display unit 28 is set (step S300 / YES), and shooting is performed using a strobe (step S303 / YES) When it is detected that the main mirror 1 is in a predetermined position (step S304 / YES), preliminary light emission is performed from the strobe (step S309 or S313), and the photometric result by the photometric sensor 7 at the time of the preliminary light emission is obtained. Based on this (step S314), the main light emission at the time of shooting is performed from the strobe (steps S317 and S321).

  Thereby, according to the imaging device according to the present embodiment, even when shooting using a strobe in the finder mode (EVF mode) in which the subject is displayed on the image display unit 28, a plurality of photometric sensors are not provided. It is possible to perform proper shooting.

  Each unit of FIG. 1 constituting the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment described above and each step of FIGS. 2 to 7 showing the control method of the imaging apparatus are executed by a program stored in a RAM or ROM of a computer. It can be realized by doing. This program and a computer-readable storage medium storing the program are included in the present invention.

  Specifically, the program is recorded in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, or provided to a computer via various transmission media. As a storage medium for recording the program, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, a magneto-optical disk, a nonvolatile memory card, and the like can be used in addition to the CD-ROM. On the other hand, as the transmission medium of the program, a communication medium in a computer network (LAN, WAN such as the Internet, wireless communication network, etc.) system for propagating and supplying program information as a carrier wave can be used. In addition, examples of the communication medium at this time include a wired line such as an optical fiber, a wireless line, and the like.

  In addition, the function of the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment is realized by executing a program supplied by the computer, and an OS (operating system) or other application software in which the program is operating in the computer. When the functions of the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment are realized in cooperation with the present embodiment, or all or part of the processing of the supplied program is performed by a function expansion board or a function expansion unit of the computer. Such a program is also included in the present invention when the function of the imaging apparatus is realized.

1 is a block diagram mainly showing an electrical configuration of a camera system (imaging device) according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control method of the camera system (imaging apparatus) which concerns on embodiment of this invention. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of the camera system (imaging device) according to the embodiment of the present invention, following FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed process of the photometry and ranging process in step S122 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed process of the imaging | photography process in FIG.3 S129. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed process of the photographing process in step S129 of FIG. 3 following FIG. 5-1. 5A and 5B are flowcharts illustrating detailed processing of the imaging processing in step S129 in FIG. 3 following FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed process of the recording process in step S133 of FIG. It is a figure which shows the photometry area of the photometry sensor according to the operation state of the camera system (imaging device) which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a timing chart at the time of stationary light and pre-flash in the built-in strobe and the external strobe. It is a figure which shows the operation state of the mirror in a camera system (imaging device). It is a figure which shows the operation state of the mirror in a camera system (imaging device). It is a figure which shows the operation state of the mirror in a camera system (imaging device). It is a figure which shows the photometry light beam of the camera system (imaging device) which concerns on embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1: Main mirror 2: Focus plate 3: Sub mirror 4: Penta prism 5: Eyepiece 6: Photometric lens 7: Photometric sensor 8: Focus detection unit 9: Shutter 11: Mirror position detection unit 14: Image sensor 16: A / D conversion Device 18: Timing generation circuit 20: Image processing circuit 22: Memory control circuit 24: Image display memory 26: D / A conversion 28: Image display unit 30: Memory 32: Compression / decompression circuit 40: Shutter control unit 41: Mirror control Unit 50: System controller 52: Second memory 54: Display unit 56: Non-volatile memory 60: Mode dial switch 62: First shutter switch SW1
64: Second shutter switch SW2
66: Finder mode setting switch 68: Quick review ON / OFF switch 70: Operation unit 80: Power supply control unit 82, 84: Connector 86: Power supply unit 90: Interface (I / F)
92, 206: Connector 98: Recording medium attachment / detachment detection unit 100: Camera body 110: Communication unit 112: Connector (or antenna)
120: Built-in strobe 121: Xe tube 122: Reflecting shade 123: Light emission control circuit 124: Charging circuit 200: Recording medium 202: Recording unit 204: Interface (I / F)
300: Lens device 301: Shooting lens 302: Focus control unit 303: Subject distance detection unit 304: Aperture 305: Aperture control unit 306: Lens control microcomputer 310: Lens mount 311: Connector 399, 499: Communication line 400: External strobe 401: Xe tube 402: Reflecting shade 403: Light emission control circuit 404: Charging circuit 405: Power supply unit 406: Strobe control microcomputer 410: Hot shoe 411: Connector

Claims (9)

Flash means for emitting a flash to the subject;
A mirror that moves between the subject observation state and the shooting state;
Metering means for metering the luminance of the subject when the mirror is in a predetermined position;
Mirror position detecting means for detecting the position of the mirror;
Control means for controlling the amount of light emitted during photographing by the flash means;
The control means preliminarily emits the flash means when the mirror position detecting means detects that the mirror is at the predetermined position, and the photometric result by the photometry means when the flash means is preliminarily emitted. Based on the above, an amount of emitted light at the time of photographing by the flash means is set.   The control means emits light at the time of photographing of the flash means based on a photometric result obtained by the photometric means when the flash means is not preliminarily emitted and a photometric result obtained by the photometric means when the flash means is preliminarily emitted. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the amount of light is set.   The control means obtains a photometric result when the flash means is not preliminarily emitted when the mirror position detecting means detects that the mirror is in the first position, and the mirror position detecting means 3. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a photometric result when the flash means is preliminarily emitted when it is detected that the second position is detected is obtained.   The photometric means comprises a photometric sensor having a plurality of photometric areas, and the photometric range when the flash means is not preliminarily emitted is different from the photometric range when the flash means is preliminarily emitted. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3.   5. The imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein a photometric range when the flash means is not preliminarily emitted and a photometric range when the flash means is preliminarily emitted are set to partially overlap. .   6. The flash unit according to claim 1, wherein the flash unit is a built-in flash unit built in the main body of the imaging apparatus or an external flash unit externally attached to the main body of the imaging apparatus. The imaging device described in 1. Comprising the built-in flash device and the external flash device;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 6, wherein when the preliminary light emission is performed, the imaging control unit changes a light emission timing according to a type of a flash device that performs the preliminary light emission. A flashing means for emitting a flash to a subject, a mirror that moves between a subject observation state and a photographing state, a photometric means that measures the luminance of the subject when the mirror is at a predetermined position, and the mirror A control method for an image pickup apparatus, comprising: mirror position detection means for detecting the position of the flashlight; and control means for controlling the amount of light emitted during photographing by the flash means,
A detecting step of detecting that the mirror is in the predetermined position by the mirror position detecting means;
A preliminary light emission step for preliminary light emission of the flash means when it is detected that the mirror is at the predetermined position;
A photometric step of performing a photometric operation by the photometric means when the flash means is preliminarily emitted;
A control method for an imaging apparatus, comprising: a setting step for setting a light emission amount at the time of photographing by the flash unit based on a photometric result of the photometric step. A flashing means for emitting a flash to the subject, a mirror that moves between the subject observation state and the photographing state, and a photometric means that measures the luminance of the subject when the mirror is in the first or second position And a control method for an imaging apparatus, comprising: mirror position detection means for detecting the position of the mirror; and control means for controlling the amount of light emitted during photographing by the flash means,
A detecting step of detecting that the mirror is in the first position by the mirror position detecting means;
A first photometric step of performing a photometric operation by the photometric means without pre-flashing the flash means when it is detected that the mirror is in the first position;
A preliminary light emitting step of preliminarily emitting the flash means when it is detected that the mirror is in the second position;
A second photometric step of performing a photometric operation by the photometric means when the flash means is preliminarily emitted;
An imaging apparatus control method comprising: a setting step of setting a light emission quantity at the time of photographing by the flash unit based on a photometric result of the first photometric step and the second photometric step.

Images