JP2008167299A - Photographing apparatus and program therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To accomplish a photographing apparatus and program therefor in which an image for observing time-sequential changes of an object in one image can be obtained without a sense of incompatibility. <P>SOLUTION: An imaging time and the number of times of exposures are set in accordance with user operation (S3, S5) and on the basis of the set imaging time and the set number of times of exposures, an exposure interval is calculated (S6). Next, exposure conditions of the exposures are calculated and set so as to obtain a proper exposure amount (S9). It is then decided whether overexposure occurs in an image or not when the exposures for the set number of exposure are performed under the calculated exposure conditions of the exposures (S10) and in a case where the overexposure occurs, the user is notified of occurrence of the overexposure (S11). When a shutter button is depressed thereafter, multiple exposure photographing is performed in which the exposures for the set number of times are performed at the calculated exposure intervals. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging device and a program thereof, and more particularly, to an imaging device and a program thereof that shoots light from a subject by multiple exposure.

  In recent years, in a photographing apparatus, for example, a digital camera, a technique of combining a plurality of photographed image data has been developed so that a time-series change of a moving subject can be observed with a single image (patent) Reference 1).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-102910

However, according to the above-mentioned patent document, a predetermined image region (partial image) is extracted from a plurality of different images and re-synthesized, so there seems to be a difference in shooting conditions and shooting environments of each image. In such a case, the resultant composite image is unnatural due to a sense of incongruity between the combined partial images. In addition, extraction accuracy at the time of image extraction and alignment accuracy between the images at the time of recombination are required, and even when this cannot be obtained, the obtained composite image has a feeling of strangeness between the synthesized partial images. , It will be unnatural. In particular, unnaturalness becomes prominent between a moving subject portion and a non-moving background portion.
In addition, since a plurality of image data after photographing must be synthesized, there is a problem that the processing becomes complicated.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of such conventional problems, and it is possible to observe a subject that has changed between different time spaces, for example, a time-series change of the subject with a single image without a sense of incongruity. It is an object of the present invention to provide a photographing apparatus capable of easily obtaining an image and a program thereof.

  In order to achieve the above object, an imaging device according to the first aspect of the present invention includes an image sensor that photoelectrically converts light from a subject, a shutter that controls an exposure time during which light from the subject is incident on the image sensor, Read control means for accumulating charges photoelectrically converted by the image pickup device for a predetermined image pickup period, and reading the stored charges as image data, and charge accumulation control in the image pickup device by the read control means And a multiple exposure photographing control means for performing multiple exposure by performing opening / closing control of the shutter a plurality of times during the imaging period as a period.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 2, in the invention according to claim 1, the exposure for setting the number of exposures as the number of times the multiple exposure shooting control means controls the opening and closing of the shutter during the imaging period. You may provide a frequency setting means.

  For example, as described in claim 3, in the invention of claim 2, the multiple exposure shooting control means sets an exposure interval as a time interval for controlling the opening and closing of the shutter during the imaging period. An exposure interval setting unit may be provided.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 4, in the invention described in claim 3, the exposure apparatus includes a multiple exposure period setting unit that sets the imaging period, and the exposure interval setting unit includes the multiple exposure period setting unit The exposure interval may be calculated based on the imaging period set by the above and the number of exposures set by the exposure number setting means, and the calculated exposure interval may be set.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 5, in the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the detection means for detecting the brightness around the device, and the detected ambient brightness Based on the above, the overexposure shooting control means determines whether the image data to be obtained by controlling the opening and closing of the shutter a plurality of times is overexposed, and overexposure determination means When it is determined that the image data is to be over-exposure, an informing means for informing that the over-exposure is in advance may be provided.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 6, in the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the detection means for detecting the brightness around the device, and the detection means detects the brightness. Based on the surrounding brightness, an exposure amount calculation unit that calculates an exposure amount of each exposure in the multiple exposure so that the multiple exposure by the multiple exposure photographing control unit becomes an appropriate exposure amount, and the exposure amount calculation unit Exposure time calculating means for calculating an exposure time based on the exposure amount thus obtained, wherein the multiple exposure photographing control means is configured so that each of the shutters has the exposure time calculated by the exposure time calculating means. The opening time may be controlled.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 7, in the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 6, during the imaging period in synchronization with the opening / closing control of the shutter by the multiple exposure photographing control means. You may provide the flash emission control means which performs the flash emission control of multiple times.

  For example, as described in claim 8, in the invention described in claim 3, the strobe light emission control unit is configured such that the light emission color of the strobe emitted during the imaging period is a different color at each light emission. In this manner, strobe light emission control may be performed.

  In order to achieve the above object, an imaging apparatus according to a ninth aspect of the present invention provides an imaging device that photoelectrically converts light from a subject, a strobe that emits light, and a charge that is photoelectrically converted by the imaging device for a predetermined exposure period. And a read control means for reading out the accumulated charge as image data, and the strobe is operated a plurality of times during the exposure period as a charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the read control means. And multiple exposure photographing control means for performing multiple exposure by controlling light emission.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 10, in the invention according to claim 9, the multiple exposure photographing control means is configured such that the light emission color of the strobe emitted during the exposure period is different from the color at each light emission. The strobe may be controlled to emit light so that

  For example, as described in claim 11, in the invention of claim 9 or 10, the number-of-flashes setting for setting the number of times that the multiple-exposure shooting control unit controls the flash emission during the exposure period. Means may be provided.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 12, in the invention of claim 11, the multiple exposure photographing control means sets a light emission interval as a time interval for controlling the light emission of the strobe during the exposure period. A light emission interval setting means may be provided.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 13, in the invention of claim 12, the apparatus further comprises an exposure period setting means for setting the exposure period, and the light emission interval setting means is set by the exposure period setting means. The light emission interval may be calculated based on the set exposure period and the number of exposures set by the light emission number setting means, and the calculated light emission interval may be set.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 14, in the invention according to any one of claims 9 to 13, the detection means for detecting the brightness around the device, and the detection means detects the brightness. Based on the ambient brightness, a calculation unit that calculates each flash emission amount in the multiple exposure so that the multiple exposure by the multiple exposure photographing control unit becomes an appropriate exposure amount, and the light emission amount calculated by the calculation unit A flash time calculation means for calculating the flash time based on the flash exposure time, and the multiple exposure photographing control means calculates the flash time for each flash so that the flash time is calculated by the flash time calculation means. You may make it control.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 15, in the invention according to any one of claims 9 to 13, the detection means for detecting the ambient brightness of the device and the detected ambient brightness Based on the above, the multiple-exposure shooting control means determines whether or not the image data to be obtained by controlling the strobe to emit light a plurality of times, and the white-out determination means If it is determined that the image data is whiteout, the first informing means for informing that whiteout is to be performed may be provided in advance.

  In addition, for example, as described in claim 16, in the invention according to any one of claims 9 to 15, the brightness of light exposed to the image pickup device during light emission and non-issue of the strobe A determination means for determining whether or not the difference in thickness is equal to or greater than a predetermined value; and a difference in brightness of light exposed to the imaging element between the light emission and non-issuance by the determination means is not greater than a predetermined value. If the determination is made, a second notification means for notifying that the image data cannot be contrasted may be provided before performing the multiple exposure by the multiple exposure photographing control means.

In order to achieve the above object, an imaging device according to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention is directed to an imaging device that photoelectrically converts light from a subject, a shutter that controls an exposure time during which light from the subject is incident on the imaging device, and light. A strobe that emits light, a detecting means for detecting the brightness of the surrounding environment of the apparatus, and a charge photoelectrically converted by the imaging device when the brightness detected by the detecting means is brighter than a predetermined threshold. The first readout control means for accumulating only for a predetermined imaging period and reading out the accumulated charge as image data, and the charge accumulation control period in the imaging device by the first readout control means A first multiple-exposure shooting control unit that performs multiple exposure by controlling opening and closing of the shutter a plurality of times during an imaging period; and a brightness detected by the detection unit is a predetermined threshold value A second readout control means for accumulating charges photoelectrically converted by the imaging device for a predetermined exposure period when the image is darker, and reading the accumulated charges as image data; and the second readout A second multiple exposure photographing control means for performing multiple exposure by controlling the light emission of the strobe a plurality of times during the exposure period as a charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the control means;
It is provided with.

  In order to achieve the above object, an imaging apparatus according to the invention described in claim 18 includes an image sensor that converts light of a subject into image data, and a shutter that controls an exposure time for allowing light from the subject to enter the image sensor. A strobe that emits light, a setting unit that sets whether or not to emit the strobe, and a charge that is photoelectrically converted by the imaging device when the setting unit is set not to emit the strobe. A first readout control means for accumulating only during the imaging period, and reading out the accumulated charges as image data, and the imaging period as a charge accumulation control period in the imaging device by the first readout control means A first multiple exposure photographing control means for performing multiple exposure by controlling opening and closing of the shutter a plurality of times, and a strobe light by the setting means. When set, the second readout control means for accumulating charges photoelectrically converted by the imaging device for a predetermined exposure period and reading the accumulated charges as image data; and the second readout A second multiple-exposure shooting control unit configured to perform multiple exposure by performing light emission control of the strobe a plurality of times during the exposure period as a charge accumulation control period in the imaging device by the control unit. And

  In order to achieve the above object, a program according to the invention described in claim 19 includes a readout control process for accumulating charges photoelectrically converted by the image sensor for a predetermined imaging period, and reading the accumulated charges as image data. , A multiple exposure photographing control process in which light from a subject is subjected to multiple exposure on the image sensor by controlling opening and closing of a shutter a plurality of times during the imaging period as a charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the readout control process Are executed by a computer.

  In order to achieve the above object, a program according to the invention described in claim 20 includes a read control process for accumulating charges photoelectrically converted by the image sensor for a predetermined exposure period, and reading the accumulated charges as image data. , A multiple exposure photographing control process in which light from a subject is subjected to multiple exposure on the image sensor by controlling the strobe to emit light a plurality of times during the exposure period as a charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the readout control process Are executed by a computer.

  In order to achieve the above object, the program according to the invention described in claim 21 is a detection process for detecting the brightness of the surrounding environment of the apparatus and when the brightness detected by the detection process is brighter than a predetermined threshold value. Charges photoelectrically converted by the imaging device are accumulated for a predetermined imaging period, and the first readout control processing for reading out the accumulated charges as image data and the imaging device by the first readout control processing A first multiple-exposure shooting control process for performing multiple exposure by controlling opening and closing of the shutter a plurality of times during the imaging period as a charge accumulation control period, and brightness detected by the detection process from a predetermined threshold value When the image is too dark, a second reading is performed in which charges that are photoelectrically converted by the imaging device are accumulated for a predetermined exposure period, and the accumulated charges are read as image data. And a second multiple exposure photographing control for performing multiple exposure by controlling the strobe to emit light a plurality of times during the exposure period as the charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the second readout control process. The processing is executed by a computer.

  In order to achieve the above object, a program according to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention relates to a setting process for setting whether or not to emit a strobe, and a photoelectric conversion performed by an image sensor when it is set not to emit a strobe by the setting process. First charge control process for accumulating the charge to be performed for a predetermined imaging period, and reading the accumulated charge as image data, and charge accumulation control in the image sensor by the first read control process During the imaging period as a period, when the first multiple exposure shooting control process in which multiple exposure is performed by controlling opening and closing of the shutter multiple times and the strobe is set to emit light by the setting process, the imaging element Second read control processing for accumulating the photoelectrically converted charge for a predetermined exposure period and reading the accumulated charge as image data A second multiple exposure photographing control process for performing multiple exposure by performing light emission control of the strobe a plurality of times during the exposure period as a charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the second readout control process; Is executed by a computer.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to easily obtain an image in which a subject that has changed between different time spaces, for example, a time-series change of the subject can be observed with a single image without a sense of incongruity.

Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as an example applied to a digital camera.
[First embodiment]
A. Configuration of Digital Camera FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic electrical configuration of a digital camera 1 that implements the photographing apparatus of the present invention.
The digital camera 1 includes a photographing lens 2, a lens driving circuit 3, a diaphragm / shutter 4, a CCD 5, a driver 6, a TG (timing generator) 7, a unit circuit 8, a memory 9, a CPU 10, a DRAM 11, an image display unit 12, and a flash memory 13. , A key input unit 14, a strobe device 15, and a bus 16.

The photographic lens 2 includes a focus lens, a zoom lens, and the like that are constituted by a plurality of lens groups (not shown), and a lens driving circuit 3 is connected to the focus lens and the zoom lens (not shown).
The lens driving circuit 3 includes a motor (not shown) that moves the focus lens and the zoom lens in the optical axis direction, and a motor driver (not shown) that drives the focus motor and the zoom motor in accordance with a control signal sent from the CPU 10. ).

The aperture / shutter 4 includes a drive circuit (not shown), and the drive circuit operates the aperture / shutter according to a control signal sent from the CPU 10. The aperture / shutter functions as an aperture and a shutter.
The aperture is a mechanism that controls the amount of light that enters from the taking lens 2, and the shutter is a mechanism that controls the time that light is applied to the CCD 5, and the time that light is applied to the CCD 5 (exposure) Time) varies depending on the shutter opening / closing speed (shutter speed). The exposure of the CCD 5 varies depending on the aperture and shutter speed.

  An image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS (CCD 5 in this case) is scan-driven by a driver 6 and photoelectrically converts light intensity of each color of the RGB value of the subject image into a unit circuit 8 as an image signal at regular intervals. Output. The operation timing of the driver 6 and the unit circuit 8 is controlled by the CPU 10 via the TG 7. The CCD 5 has a Bayer color filter and also functions as an electronic shutter. The shutter speed of the electronic shutter is controlled by the CPU 10 via the driver 6 and TG7.

  A TG 7 is connected to the unit circuit 8, a CDS (Correlated Double Sampling) circuit that holds the imaging signal output from the CCD 5 by correlated double sampling, and an AGC (Automatic Gain Adjustment of the imaging signal after the sampling) An automatic gain control) circuit and an A / D converter that converts the analog image pickup signal after the automatic gain adjustment into a digital signal. The image pickup signal of the CCD 5 is sent to the CPU 10 through the unit circuit 8 as a digital signal. It is done.

The CPU 10 has a function of performing image processing such as gamma correction, interpolation processing, white balance processing, histogram generation processing, luminance color difference signal (YUV data) generation processing on the image data sent from the unit circuit 8, and image data This is a one-chip microcomputer that has a function of performing compression / decompression and the like and controls each part of the digital camera 1. Further, the CPU 10 includes a clock circuit and has a function as a timer.
In particular, the present embodiment has a function of controlling the opening / closing of the diaphragm shutter 4 and the light emission of the strobe device 15 in order to cause the CCD 5 to perform multiple exposure.

  The memory 9 stores a control program and necessary data necessary for controlling each part of the CPU 10, and the CPU 10 operates according to the program. It also has a storage area for storing information necessary for the present invention.

The DRAM 11 is used as a buffer memory for temporarily storing image data sent to the CPU 10 after being imaged by the CCD 5 and also as a working memory for the CPU 10.
The image display unit 12 includes a color LCD and its drive circuit, and displays the subject imaged by the CCD 5 as a through image when in a shooting standby state, and is read out from the flash memory 13 and decompressed when a recorded image is reproduced. The recorded image is displayed.

The flash memory 13 is a recording medium that stores image data captured by the CCD 5.
The key input unit 14 includes a plurality of operation keys such as a shutter button, a mode switching key, a menu key, a cross key, and a set key, and outputs an operation signal corresponding to the user's key operation to the CPU 10.

  As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the strobe device 16 includes an LED and an LED drive circuit, and the LED drive circuit causes the LED to emit light by supplying current to the LED. This LED drive circuit causes the LED to emit light in accordance with a light emission control signal from the CPU 10. FIG. 2A shows a strobe device using a DC / DC converter by PWM modulation, and FIG. 2B shows a strobe device using a charge pump or the like.

  The light emission amount of the LED can be changed according to the magnitude of the current supplied to the LED and the time during which the current is supplied. It should be noted that the amount of light emission can be changed by providing a plurality of LEDs and changing the number of LEDs to emit light. The power source 21 is for supplying power to each part of the digital camera 1.

  In addition, although LED is employ | adopted here, it should just be an element (light emitting element) which light-emits light. The strobe device 15 may emit light using a xenon tube, or may include an LED and a xenon tube, and both may emit light. For example, the light may be emitted using a xenon tube until a predetermined number of times, and the LED may be caused to emit light when the predetermined number of times is exceeded. The reason why the xenon tube is caused to emit light only a predetermined number of times is that when the xenon tube 27 is used for light emission, the capacitor is charged in advance and light is emitted using the voltage of the charged capacitor. This is because the voltage of the capacitor also drops in accordance with the light emission of the xenon tube, and when the voltage of the capacitor drops to a predetermined voltage, the xenon tube cannot emit light unless the capacitor is charged.

B. Operation of Digital Camera 1 The operation of the digital camera 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.
In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the shutter 4 is controlled to be opened and closed a plurality of times during the period in which the charges photoelectrically converted by the CCD 5 are accumulated, and this is called multiple exposure or multiple exposure photography. I will explain.

  When the multiple exposure mode is set, in step S1, the CPU 10 starts imaging the subject by the CCD 5, generates image data of a luminance color difference signal from the image data obtained by the imaging, and generates the generated luminance color difference. The image data of the signal is stored in the buffer memory (DRAM 11), and through image display is started in which the stored image data of the subject is displayed on the image display unit 12.

Next, in step S2, the CPU 10 determines whether or not an operation for setting the entire imaging time (imaging period) for imaging by multiple exposure shooting has been performed. As shown in FIG. 5, the imaging time refers to the total time for which the CCD 5 performs imaging by multiple exposure. That is, it means a time for accumulating charges photoelectrically converted by the CCD 5.
Here, the user can set the imaging time by operating the menu key or the cross key of the key input unit 14, and the CPU 10 receives an operation signal corresponding to the setting operation of the imaging time as the key input unit 14. If it is sent from, it is determined that an imaging time setting operation has been performed.

  Thereby, the imaging time according to the moving speed of the subject and the distance to the target subject can be set. For example, when the distance to the target subject is the same and the multiple exposure is performed for a car running at high speed, it is preferable to set the imaging time shorter than that for a person running at low speed. This is because if the imaging time is set to be long when the movement of the target subject is fast, the moving target subject may move out of the angle of view during that time.

  The target subject name or target subject image and the imaging time are stored in association with each other in advance, and the imaging time corresponding to the selected target subject is set by selecting the target subject consisting of the name and image. It is good also as a structure. For example, a relatively short imaging time may be set when a running vehicle is selected, and a relatively long imaging time may be set when a runner is selected. The user can intuitively set the imaging time without worrying about the specific imaging time to be set.

  If it is determined in step S2 that an imaging time setting operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S3, and the CPU 10 sets the imaging time according to the operation, and then proceeds to step S4. The set imaging time is stored in the imaging time storage area of the memory 9. At this time, if the imaging time is already stored in the imaging time storage area, it is overwritten and stored. Here, it is assumed that the imaging time is set to 2 seconds.

It is assumed that the set imaging time is set until the imaging time is reset again (the storage of the imaging time storage area is maintained). For example, the imaging time set in the previous multiple exposure shooting is maintained as long as the imaging time is not reset. If the imaging time is not reset, the imaging time of the previous multiple exposure shooting is used, and this time the multiple exposure is also performed. Shooting is performed.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2 that the imaging time setting operation has not been performed, the process proceeds directly to step S4.

In step S4, the CPU 10 determines whether or not an operation for setting the number of exposures as the number of times of opening and closing the shutter has been performed. As shown in FIG. 5, the number of exposures herein refers to the number of times exposure (shutter opening / closing) is performed during a set imaging time.
At this time, the user can set the number of exposures by operating the menu key or the cross key of the key input unit 14, and the CPU 10 receives an operation signal corresponding to the operation for setting the number of exposures. 14, it is determined that an operation for setting the number of exposures has been performed.

  Thereby, the number of exposures can be set according to the size of the subject. For example, when the distance to the target subject is the same and the multiple exposure is performed on a running car, it is preferable to set the number of exposures smaller than that for a running person. This is because if the number of exposures is set large when the target subject is large, the target subject may be excessively overlapped in the obtained image.

  It should be noted that the target subject name or target subject image and the number of exposures are stored in advance in association with each other, and the number of exposures corresponding to the selected target subject is set by selecting the target subject consisting of the name and image. It is good also as a structure. For example, a relatively small number of exposures may be set when a traveling vehicle is selected, and a relatively large number of exposures may be set when a runner is selected. The user can intuitively set the number of exposures without worrying about the specific number of exposures to be set.

  If it is determined in step S4 that an operation for setting the number of exposures has been performed, the process proceeds to step S5, and the CPU 10 sets the number of exposures c in accordance with the operation, and then proceeds to step S6. The set number of exposures is stored in the exposure number storage area of the memory 9. At this time, if the exposure count is already stored in the exposure count storage area, it is overwritten and stored. Here, it is assumed that the number of exposures is set to 8 times.

  It is assumed that the set number of exposures is set until the number of exposures is reset again (the exposure number storage area is stored). For example, the number of exposures set in the previous multiple exposure shooting is maintained unless the number of exposures is reset, and if the number of exposures is not reset, the previous number of exposures of the multiple exposure shooting is used. Shooting is performed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S4 that the number of exposures has not been set, the process proceeds directly to step S6.
In step S6, the CPU 10 calculates exposure intervals so that the exposure intervals are equal based on the set imaging time and number of exposures. Here, since the imaging time is set to 2 seconds and the number of shootings is set to 8 times, the exposure interval is 0.25 seconds. The calculated exposure interval is stored in the exposure interval storage area of the buffer memory.
Here, the exposure interval refers to the interval of the start timing of each exposure. That is, it refers to the interval of opening or closing timing of the shutter 4. The upper limit of the length of each exposure time (lower limit of shutter speed: upper limit of the opening time of the shutter 4) is determined by this exposure interval, and the exposure time that can be inevitably set if the exposure interval is shortened. It will also be shorter. That is, the exposure time cannot be set longer than the calculated exposure interval. This is because if the exposure time is set longer than the calculated exposure interval, the shutter 4 must be opened over the entire period of the imaging time, and multiple exposure shooting is no longer necessary.

Next, in step S <b> 7, the CPU 10 calculates an appropriate exposure amount EV value based on the luminance component of the most recently imaged image data. Here, it calculates as the appropriate exposure amount EV value for multiple exposure. That is, the CPU 10 also has a function as detection means for detecting the brightness of the surrounding environment of the digital camera.
A photometric circuit may be provided, and the appropriate exposure EV value may be calculated based on the brightness of the surrounding environment obtained by the photometric circuit.

  Next, in step S8, the CPU 10 calculates an exposure amount ev value for each exposure in the multiple exposure based on the calculated appropriate exposure amount EV value. This calculation can be obtained by the relational expression of exposure amount ev = the calculated appropriate exposure amount EV / the set number of exposures c.

Next, in step S9, the CPU 10 calculates and sets the exposure conditions (aperture value, exposure time) for each time based on the calculated exposure amount ev value. That is, the calculated exposure condition is stored in the exposure condition storage area of the buffer memory. Thus, if the exposure with the calculated exposure amount ev value is performed for the set number of exposures c, the exposure with the appropriate exposure amount EV value calculated in step S7 can be performed.
Needless to say, the exposure time calculated and set as the exposure condition is shorter than the exposure interval calculated in step S6. That is, it is preferable to set the aperture value and the exposure time with priority on the exposure time (shutter speed) based on the above-described upper limit value of the exposure time so that the calculated exposure value ev value is obtained. If the calculated exposure amount ev value is too small and the calculated exposure amount ev value cannot be obtained no matter how much the aperture is reduced or the exposure time is increased, the aperture is reduced to the maximum. The aperture value and maximum exposure time are set.

Next, in step S10, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the image is blown out (the pixel of the CCD 5 is saturated) if the calculated exposure condition is performed for the set number of exposures c. I do.
Here, if exposure is basically performed for the set number of exposures c for the exposure amount ev value calculated in step S8, an image exposed by multiple exposure will have an appropriate exposure amount EV value without whiteout. Such an image can be obtained, but even if the exposure condition calculation setting in step S9 is too bright and the diaphragm / shutter 4 is maximized, the shutter speed of the diaphragm / shutter 4 is maximized. However, the exposure amount ev value calculated in step S8 may be exceeded, and in such a case, the image may be overexposed.

If it is determined in step S10 that the image is whiteout, the process proceeds to step S11, and the CPU 10 notifies the user that the image is whiteout and proceeds to step S12. As a method of this notification, the image display unit 12 displays that the image is over-exposure, or the sound or sound that the image is over-exposure is emitted from a speaker (not shown). There is a way. In short, any method that can notify the user may be used.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S10 that the image does not white out, the process proceeds directly to step S12.
In other words, in the present embodiment, before performing the multiple exposure shooting operation described in detail later, based on, for example, through image data, whether or not the surrounding environment is an environment suitable for multiple exposure shooting. Judgment is being made.

In step S12, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the shutter button has been pressed by the user. This determination is made based on whether or not an operation signal corresponding to pressing of the shutter button is sent from the key input unit 14.
If it is determined in step S12 that the shutter button has not been pressed, the process returns to step S2 to repeat the above operation. Thereby, the user can freely change the setting of the shooting time and the number of exposures until the shutter button is pressed. Further, for example, when a notification that the image is whiteout is given in step S11, the user can reduce the number of exposures and the imaging time so that the image does not whiteout.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S12 that the shutter button has been pressed, multiple exposure shooting is started.
Specifically, first, the process proceeds to step S13 in FIG. 4, and the CPU 10 sets the remaining number of exposures d = the number of exposures c (here, the number of remaining exposures d = 8 since the number of exposures c is 8). That is, the exposure count c is stored as the remaining exposure count d stored in the remaining exposure count storage area of the buffer memory. This remaining exposure count d indicates how many post-exposures are performed, and the exposure count c is the exposure count set in step S5.

Next, in step S14, the CPU 10 starts an imaging process. As a result, the light incident through the photographing lens 2 and the aperture / shutter 4 is imaged by the CCD 5, but no light enters the CCD 5 when the aperture / shutter 4 is closed. At the start of the imaging process, all charges accumulated in the CCD 5 are discharged, and then the imaging process is started.
Next, in step S15, the CPU 10 starts exposure with the aperture / shutter 4 opened, and starts a timer. At this time, the aperture / shutter is opened according to the aperture value of the exposure condition set in step S9.

Here, FIG. 5 is a diagram showing time charts of imaging processing of multiple exposure shooting, exposure (opening / closing of the aperture / shutter 4), and image reading.
As can be seen from FIG. 5, the imaging process is started by pressing the shutter button, and when the imaging time has elapsed, the imaging process is completed. It can also be seen that the exposure is performed a plurality of times during this imaging time. .
It can also be seen that the exposure is started by pressing the shutter button.
When exposure is started, in step S16, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the exposure time has elapsed. That is, the timer determines whether or not the exposure time of the exposure condition set in step S9 has elapsed.

  If it is determined in step S16 that the exposure time has not elapsed, the process stays in step S16 until it is determined that the exposure time has elapsed. If it is determined that the exposure time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S17. The exposure is stopped by closing. As can be seen from FIG. 5, it can be seen that the diaphragm shutter 4 is closed when the exposure time elapses. As a result, the diaphragm shutter 4 is closed as the exposure time elapses, so that the light of the subject incident through the photographing lens 2 is not projected onto the CCD 5. Therefore, in principle, the CCD 5 does not perform photoelectric conversion on the light from the subject while the diaphragm shutter 4 is closed.

Next, in step S18, the CPU 10 sets the remaining exposure count d = d-1. That is, a value obtained by subtracting 1 from the remaining exposure count d stored in the remaining exposure count storage area of the buffer memory is newly stored.
Next, in step S19, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the remaining exposure count d = 0, that is, whether or not the remaining exposure count d stored in the remaining exposure count storage area is 0.

If it is determined in step S19 that the remaining exposure count d stored in the remaining exposure count storage area is not 0, the process proceeds to step S20, and the CPU 10 determines whether or not the exposure interval time has elapsed. That is, it is determined whether or not the exposure interval time (here, 0.25 seconds) calculated in step S6 has elapsed.
If it is determined in step S20 that the exposure interval time has not elapsed, the process stays in step S20 until the exposure interval time elapses. If it is determined that the exposure interval time has elapsed, the process returns to step S15 to start exposure again and start the timer. And repeat the above operation. At this time, the timer is reset and then restarted.

As can be seen from FIG. 5, when the exposure interval time elapses, the aperture / shutter is opened again and exposure is started. In this way, during the imaging time set by the user, exposure for the number of exposures c (here, 8 times) set by the user is repeatedly performed.
Here, FIG. 6 shows a state of an image picked up by the CCD 5 by each of multiple exposures, and FIG. 6A shows a state of an image picked up by the first exposure. ) Shows the second exposure, (c) shows the third exposure, and (d) shows the state of the image captured by the fourth exposure. Thus, since exposure is performed at every exposure interval time, intermittent images are picked up by the CCD 5.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S19 that the remaining exposure count d = 0, the process proceeds to step S21, and the CPU 10 determines whether or not the exposure interval time has elapsed.
If it is determined in step S21 that the exposure interval time has not elapsed, it remains in step S21 until it is determined that it has elapsed, and if it is determined that it has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S22.
If it is determined in step S19 that the number of remaining exposures d = 0, the process may directly proceed to step S22 without performing the operation of step S21.

When proceeding to step S22, the CPU 10 ends the imaging process, proceeds to step S23, reads the electric charge (captured image data) accumulated in the CCD 5, generates a luminance color difference signal from the read captured image data, The generated captured image data of the luminance / color difference signal is stored in the buffer memory (DRAM 11).
As can be seen from FIG. 5, when the imaging process is completed, it can be seen that the image is read out.

FIG. 7 shows the state of an image of captured image data (read captured image data) captured by multiple exposure imaging and stored in the buffer memory.
As shown in FIG. 7, in the multiple exposure, the CCD 5 accumulates charges photoelectrically converted with respect to the light from the subject each time it is exposed, so the images captured by each exposure are combined. The (synthesized) image data is picked up by the CCD 5.
As a result, it is possible to take image data in which the relationship between the continuous change of the subject and the overall movement can be seen at a glance.

In step S24, the CPU 10 causes the image display unit 12 to display a preview of the captured image data stored in the buffer memory.
The preview displayed image is as shown in FIG.

Next, in step S25, the CPU 10 determines whether or not to record the captured image data (image data displayed as a preview) obtained by the multiple exposure.
At this time, the user can select whether or not to record by operating the cross key or the like of the key input unit 14, and the CPU 10 sends an operation signal corresponding to the operation for recording from the key input unit 14. If it has been received, it is determined to be recorded, and if an operation signal not to record is sent from the key input unit 14, it is determined not to be recorded.

If it is determined in step S25 that the photographed image data obtained by the multiple exposure is to be recorded, the process proceeds to step S26, and the CPU 10 compresses the photographed image data stored in the buffer memory and records it in the flash memory 13 to perform the step. Return to S1.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S25 that the captured image data obtained by the multiple exposure is not to be recorded, the process directly returns to step S1.

  In the present embodiment, a subject that changes between different time spaces, for example, a moving subject is sufficiently brighter than a background as a non-moving subject. It is preferable to be photographed.

C. As described above, in the first embodiment, multiple exposure shooting can be easily performed based on, for example, the imaging time and the number of exposures set by the user.
In addition, since the user can set the imaging time and the number of exposures, it is possible to perform multiple exposure shooting according to the situation of the subject to be shot (the movement of the subject, the moving speed), and the continuous change of the subject or the whole You can take an image that clearly shows the relationship with the movement of the camera. That is, it is possible to easily obtain an image in which a subject that has changed between different time spaces, for example, a time-series change of the subject can be observed with a single image without a sense of incongruity.
Further, in principle, each exposure condition in the multiple exposure is set so that the proper exposure amount EV is obtained, so that image data with an appropriate exposure amount can be obtained even in the multiple exposure photographing.
In addition, when the image is blown out when the set number of exposures is performed, a notification that the image is blown out is notified before the multiple exposure shooting, so that the user does not blow out the image before the multiple exposure shooting. As described above, it is possible to darken the shooting situation or reset the number of exposures, and to obtain image data that does not white out.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment will be described.
In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, multiple exposure shooting is performed by performing exposure control (shutter opening / closing control) a plurality of times during charge accumulation by the CCD 5. In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the flash is controlled to emit light a plurality of times while the shutter 4 is kept open while the CCD 5 accumulates charges. That is, the flash is controlled to emit light a plurality of times during one exposure period. In the second embodiment, controlling the flash to emit light a plurality of times during one exposure period is referred to as multiple exposure or multiple exposure shooting.

  Note that in the case of multiple exposure shooting in the second embodiment, the subject must be raised when the flash is fired, so that the flash can be used when the flash is not being fired (during non-flash). The difference in brightness of the subject between when the light is emitted (during light emission) and above must be greater than a predetermined value, that is, in a state where contrast can be obtained. Explaining in an extreme example, when multiple exposure shooting is performed in a completely dark shooting situation, the difference in brightness of the subject between non-flashing and flashing exceeds a predetermined value and the flash is fired only. The situation is such that the subject appears.

D. Operation of Digital Camera 1 The second embodiment also implements the photographing apparatus of the present invention by using the digital camera 1 having the same configuration as that shown in FIG. In the second embodiment, it is assumed that the shutter button of the key input unit 14 is a shutter button that can be operated in two steps, half-press and full-press.
Hereinafter, the operation of the digital camera 1 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  When the multiple exposure mode is set, in step S51, the CPU 10 starts imaging the subject by the CCD 5, generates image data of a luminance color difference signal from the image data obtained by the imaging, and generates the generated luminance color difference. The through image display is started in which the image data of the signal is stored in the buffer memory, and the stored image data of the subject is displayed on the image display unit 12.

Next, in step S52, the CPU 10 determines whether or not an operation for setting an exposure time (shutter opening time) for exposure by multiple exposure photography has been performed.
Here, the user can set the exposure time by operating the menu key or the cross key of the key input unit 14, and the CPU 10 receives an operation signal corresponding to the exposure time setting operation. If it is sent from, it is determined that an exposure time setting operation has been performed.

  Thereby, the exposure time according to the moving speed of the subject and the distance to the target subject can be set. For example, when the distance to the target subject is the same and the multiple exposure is performed for a vehicle running at high speed, it is preferable to set the exposure time shorter than that for a person running at low speed. This is because if the imaging time is set to be long when the movement of the target subject is fast, the moving target subject may move out of the angle of view during that time.

  The target subject name or target subject image and the exposure time are stored in association with each other in advance, and the exposure time corresponding to the selected target subject is set by selecting the target subject consisting of the name and image. It is good also as a structure. For example, a relatively short exposure time may be set when a traveling vehicle is selected, and a relatively long exposure time may be set when a runner is selected. The user can intuitively set the exposure time without worrying about the specific exposure time to be set.

  If it is determined in step S52 that an exposure time setting operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S53, and the CPU 10 sets the exposure time according to the operation, and then proceeds to step S54. The set exposure time is stored in the exposure time storage area of the memory 9. At this time, if the exposure time is already stored in the exposure time storage area, it is overwritten and stored. Here, it is assumed that the exposure time is set to 2 seconds.

It is assumed that the set exposure time is set until the exposure time is reset again (the exposure time storage area is stored). For example, the exposure time set in the multiple exposure shooting is maintained as long as the exposure time is not reset. If the exposure time is not reset, the exposure time of the previous multiple exposure shooting is used. Shooting is performed.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S52 that the exposure time setting operation has not been performed, the process proceeds directly to step S54.

In step S54, the CPU 10 determines whether or not an operation for setting the number of flash firings has been performed.
At this time, the user can set the number of times of light emission by operating the menu key or the cross key of the key input unit 14, and the CPU 10 receives an operation signal corresponding to the operation for setting the number of times of light emission. 14, it is determined that the operation for setting the number of times of light emission has been performed.

  Thereby, the number of times of light emission can be set according to the size of the subject. For example, in the case where the distance to the target subject is the same, when shooting a running car with multiple exposure, it is preferable to set the number of times of light emission smaller than that of a running person. This is because if the number of times of light emission is set large when the movement of the target subject is large, the target subject may excessively overlap in the obtained image.

  It should be noted that the target subject name or target subject image and the number of times of light emission are stored in association with each other, and the number of times of light emission corresponding to the selected target subject is set by selecting the target subject consisting of the name and image. It is good also as a structure. For example, a relatively small number of light emission times may be set when a running vehicle is selected, and a relatively large number of light emission times may be set when a runner is selected. The user can intuitively set the number of times of light emission without worrying about the specific number of times of light emission to be set.

  If it is determined in step S54 that the operation for setting the number of times of light emission has been performed, the process proceeds to step S55, and the CPU 10 sets the number of times of light emission f in accordance with the operation, and then proceeds to step 56. The set number of emission times is stored in the emission number storage area of the memory 9. At this time, if the light emission count is already stored in the light emission count storage area, it is overwritten and stored. Here, it is assumed that the number of times of light emission is set to 8 times.

  It is assumed that the set number of times of light emission is set until the number of times of light emission is reset again (the memory of the light emission number storage area is retained). For example, the number of flashes set in the previous multiple exposure shooting is maintained as long as the number of flashes is not reset. If the number of flashes is not reset, the previous number of flashes is used for multiple exposure shooting. Shooting is performed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S54 that the operation for setting the number of light emission times has not been performed, the process proceeds directly to step S56.
In step S56, the CPU 10 calculates the light emission intervals so that the respective light emission intervals are equal based on the set exposure time and the number of times of light emission. Here, since the exposure time is set to 2 seconds and the number of times of light emission is set to 8, the light emission interval is 0.25 seconds. The calculated light emission interval is stored in the light emission interval storage area of the buffer memory.

  Here, the light emission interval means an interval of the start timing of each light emission. The upper limit of the light emission time is determined by this light emission interval, and if the light emission interval is shortened, the light emission time that can be inevitably set is also shortened. That is, the light emission time cannot be set longer than the calculated light emission interval. This is because, if the light emission time is set longer than the calculated light emission interval, the strobe must be in the light emission state over the entire exposure time, and it is no longer a multiple exposure shooting.

  Next, in step S57, the CPU 10 detects the brightness of the subject based on the luminance component of the most recently imaged image data. That is, the CPU 10 also has a function as detection means for detecting the brightness of the surrounding environment of the digital camera.

  Next, in step S58, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the image is blown out (whether the pixel of the CCD 5 is saturated) based on the detected brightness of the subject and the set exposure time. Make a decision. As an example of this image being blown out, the shooting situation is too bright, and no matter how much the aperture of the aperture / shutter 4 is set to the maximum, the pixel becomes saturated when the exposure for the set exposure time is performed. There is a case.

If it is determined in step S58 that the image is whiteout, the process proceeds to step S59, and the CPU 10 notifies the user that the image is whiteout because the exposure time is long, and then proceeds to step S60. As a notification method, the image display unit 12 displays a message that the image is over-exposure due to the long exposure time, or a sound or sound that the image is over-exposed from a speaker (not shown). There are methods such as sound. In short, any method that can notify the user may be used.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S58 that the image is not whiteout, the process directly proceeds to step S60.

In step S60, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the shutter button is half-pressed by the user. This determination is made based on whether or not an operation signal corresponding to a half-press operation of the shutter button has been sent from the key input unit 14.
If it is determined in step S60 that the shutter button is not half-pressed, the process returns to step S52 and the above-described operation is repeated. Thus, the user can freely change the setting of the exposure time and the number of times of light emission until the shutter button is half-pressed. Further, for example, when a notification that the image is whiteout is given in step S59, the user can reduce the exposure time so that the image does not whiteout, or can darken the shooting situation by turning off the light or the like. .

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S60 that the shutter button has been half-pressed, the process proceeds to step S61 in FIG. 9, and the CPU 10 calculates an appropriate exposure EV value based on the most recently detected brightness of the subject.
Next, in step S62, the CPU 10 performs a light control operation by preliminary light emission. A control signal is sent to the strobe device 15 to cause the LED to preliminarily emit light, and at the same time, the CCD 5 performs an image pickup (charge accumulation) operation, and then a process of reading out the charges accumulated in the CCD 5 is performed.

Next, in step S63, the CPU 10 calculates an exposure condition (aperture value) based on the result of the light control operation and the appropriate exposure amount EV value calculated in step S61, and LED that emits light a plurality of times by multiple exposure shooting. The total light emission amount p is calculated. The calculated exposure condition is stored in the exposure condition storage area of the buffer memory.
Next, in step S64, the CPU 10 calculates a light emission amount q for one light emission based on the calculated light emission amount, and stores it in the light emission amount storage area of the buffer memory. This calculation can be obtained by a relational expression of light emission quantity q of one light emission = light emission quantity p / the set light emission frequency f 1. As a result, during the exposure for the exposure time set with the set aperture value, if the light emission for the set number of light emission times f is emitted with the calculated light emission amount q, the appropriate exposure amount EV is obtained. Such an image is obtained by multiple exposure photography.

  Next, in step S65, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the calculated light emission amount q for one light emission is larger than a predetermined light emission amount. The predetermined light emission amount may be a minimum light emission amount that cannot be further reduced when the LED emits light, or may be a light emission amount arbitrarily set by the user, The minimum light emission amount necessary for each light emission emitted a plurality of times may be used. Here, it is preferable that the minimum light emission amount necessary for each light emission emitted a plurality of times is a light emission amount that does not cause the subject to stand up against the background even if the LED is caused to emit light.

If it is determined in step S65 that the light emission amount q is larger than the predetermined light emission amount, the process proceeds directly to step S70. If it is determined in step S65 that the light emission amount q is not larger than the predetermined light emission amount, the process proceeds to step S66, and the CPU 10 calculates the calculation. The emitted light quantity q is set to a predetermined light emission quantity. That is, the storage in the light emission amount storage area of the buffer memory is updated to a predetermined light emission amount.
Next, in step S67, the CPU 10 recalculates the exposure condition (aperture value). Since the light emission amount q calculated in step S64 is increased to the predetermined light emission amount, the total light emission amount of the light emission amounts emitted a plurality of times is increased so that the appropriate exposure amount EV value calculated in step S61 is obtained. This is because the aperture must be changed. The recalculated exposure condition is overwritten and stored in the exposure condition storage area of the buffer memory.

Next, in step S68, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the image is overexposed when the set number of times of light emission is performed.
Here, basically, since the exposure condition is recalculated in step S67 so that the appropriate exposure amount EV value calculated in step S61 is obtained, light emission of a predetermined light emission amount is set during the exposure time. If the number of light emission times is f, the image obtained by the multiple exposure shooting can be obtained as an appropriate exposure amount EV value without whiteout, but the re-calculation in step S68 shows that the shooting situation is bright, If the predetermined amount of light emission is performed for a predetermined number of times f, the appropriate exposure amount EV value set in step S61 may be exceeded even if the aperture is fully reduced or the shutter speed is maximized. In this case, there is a possibility that the image will be skipped.

If it is determined in step S68 that the image will be blown out when the set number of light emission is performed, the process proceeds to step S69, and the CPU 10 informs the user that the image will be blown out because of the large number of times of light emission. Information is sent to step S70.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S68 that the image will not be blown when the set number of times of light emission is performed, the process proceeds to step S70 as it is.
In other words, in the present embodiment, before performing the multiple exposure shooting operation described in detail later, based on, for example, through image data, whether or not the surrounding environment is an environment suitable for multiple exposure shooting. Judgment is being made.

  When the light emission amount q for one light emission is calculated in step S64, the process proceeds to step S65, where it is determined whether or not the calculated light emission amount q for one light emission is larger than a predetermined light emission amount. If the light emission quantity q of one light emission is calculated in step S64, the process may proceed to step S70 as it is.

  In step S70, the CPU 10 calculates and sets the light emission condition based on the light emission amount q of one light emission (the light emission amount stored in the light emission amount storage area). That is, the calculated exposure condition is stored in the light emission condition storage area of the buffer memory. The light emission conditions include the light emission intensity of the LED and the light emission time of the LED. The light emission intensity of an LED indicates the amount of light emitted by the LED per unit time, and the light emission intensity varies depending on the amount of current supplied to the LED and the number of LEDs to emit light. The light emission time of the LED refers to the supply time of the current supplied to the LED, and this light emission time is shorter than the light emission interval calculated in step S56.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S71, and the CPU 10 emits a single light emission stored in the light emission amount storage area, the brightness of the subject detected most recently, the exposure condition (aperture) calculated in step S63 or step S67, and the light emission amount storage area. Based on the amount q (the light emission amount calculated in step S64 or the predetermined light emission amount), it is determined whether or not the difference in brightness of the subject between the light emission of the LED and the non-light emission exceeds a predetermined value. . This is because if the difference in the brightness of the subject between light emission and non-light emission does not become a predetermined value or more, the degree of the subject floating due to the light emission of the LED is reduced. This is because it is impossible to obtain an image similar to the multiple exposure photography described in the embodiment. That is, if the brightness of the subject does not change so much whether the LED emits light or not, there is no difference from an image that has been exposed for the set exposure time.

If it is determined in step S71 that the difference in brightness of the subject between light emission and non-light emission does not exceed a predetermined value, the process proceeds to step S72, and the CPU 10 indicates that the subject cannot be contrasted between light emission and non-light emission. The user is notified and the process proceeds to step S73.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step 71 that the difference in brightness of the subject between light emission and non-light emission is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the process proceeds directly to step S73.

In step S73, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the shutter button has been fully pressed by the user. This determination is made based on whether or not an operation signal corresponding to the full pressing operation of the shutter button is sent from the key input unit 11.
If it is determined in step S73 that the shutter button is not fully pressed, the process proceeds to step S74, and the CPU 10 determines whether or not the half-press of the shutter button is released. This determination is made based on whether or not an operation signal corresponding to the half-pressing operation of the shutter button is no longer sent from the key input unit 14, and an operation signal corresponding to the half-pressing operation of the shutter button is no longer sent. Determines that the half-press of the shutter button has been released.

  If it is determined in step S74 that the half-press of the shutter button has not been released, the process returns to step S73. If it is determined that the half-press of the shutter button has been released, the process returns to step S52 in FIG. Thus, even after the shutter button is half-pressed, the user can freely change the setting of the exposure time and the number of times of light emission by releasing the half-press. Also, for example, if a notification that the image is whiteout is given in step S68, the user can reduce the number of times of light emission, darken the shooting state, or not obtain contrast in step S72 so that the image does not white out. When the notification is made, it is possible to darken the shooting situation by turning off the light or the like so that the subject can be contrasted by light emission and non-light emission.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S73 that the shutter button has been fully pressed, the CPU 10 starts multiple exposure shooting.
Specifically, first, the process proceeds to step S75 in FIG. 10, and the CPU 10 sets the remaining light emission number g = the number of light emission times f (here, since the number of light emission times is 8, the remaining light emission number g = 8). That is, the number of times of light emission f is stored in the buffer memory as the remaining number of times of light emission g stored in the remaining light emission number storage area. The remaining light emission number g indicates how many times light emission is to be performed, and the light emission number f is the light emission number set in step S55.

Next, in step S76, the CPU 10 starts exposure. At this time, the exposure is started after discharging the charges accumulated in the CCD 5. At this time, the aperture / shutter is opened according to the aperture value of the exposure condition calculated in step S64 (or the recalculated aperture value of the exposure condition if recalculation is performed in step S67).
Next, in step S77, the CPU 10 sends a control signal (light emission control signal) to the strobe device 15 to cause the strobe (LED) to emit light with the light emission intensity set in step S70 and to start a timer.

Here, FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a time chart of exposure / image reading of multiple exposure photography, LED emission control signal, and LED drive current (current supplied to the LED).
Referring to FIG. 11, it can be seen that exposure is started by fully pressing the shutter button, and that exposure is completed when the exposure time has elapsed, and that light emission is performed a plurality of times during this exposure time.
It can also be seen that strobe light emission is started by pressing the shutter button.

When the light emission is started, in step S78, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the light emission time has elapsed. That is, it is determined whether the light emission time set in step S70 has elapsed.
If it is determined in step S78 that the light emission time has not elapsed, the process stays in step S78 until the light emission time has elapsed. If it is determined that the light emission time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S79, and the CPU 10 stops the light emission. Referring to FIG. 11, it can be seen that no current is supplied to the LED when the light emission time elapses.

Next, in step S80, the CPU 10 sets the number of times of light emission g = g-1. That is, a value obtained by subtracting 1 from the remaining light emission count g stored in the remaining light emission count storage area of the buffer memory is newly stored.
Next, in step S81, the CPU 10 determines whether the remaining light emission number g = 0, that is, whether the remaining light emission number g stored in the remaining light emission number storage area is zero.

If it is determined in step S81 that the remaining light emission number g stored in the remaining light emission number storage area is not 0, the process proceeds to step S82, and the CPU 10 determines whether or not the light emission interval time has elapsed. That is, it is determined whether or not the light emission interval time (here, 0.25 seconds) calculated in step S56 has elapsed.
If it is determined in step S82 that the light emission interval time has not elapsed, the process stays in step S82 until the light emission interval time has elapsed. If it is determined that the light emission interval time has elapsed, the process returns to step S77 to start light emission again. Start the timer and repeat the above operation. At this time, the timer is reset and then restarted.

As can be seen from FIG. 11, when the light emission interval time elapses, light is emitted again with the light emission intensity set in step S70. In this way, light emission is repeatedly performed for the number of light emission times f (eight times here) set by the user.
Here, multiple exposure shooting is performed in a dark shooting state, and the state of an image captured by the CCD 5 by each light emission emitted a plurality of times will be described with reference to FIG.
6A shows the state of an image captured by the first light emission, FIG. 6B shows the second light emission, FIG. 6C shows the third light emission, and FIG. 6D shows the fourth light emission. Each of the images is shown. In short, since light is emitted every light emission interval time, intermittent images are picked up by the CCD 5.

  Here, since the multiple exposure shooting is performed in the dark shooting state, the exposure is performed for the exposure time set in step S53. However, during the period when the strobe is not emitted, the CCD 5 is exposed to the subject. No light is projected and no charge is accumulated in the CCD 5. Accordingly, the light of the subject is projected on the CCD 5 and the electric charge is accumulated only during the period when the strobe light is emitted. That is, the subject is imaged by the CCD 5 only during the period when the strobe light is emitted.

Further, the strobe device 15 is provided with a color LED having a plurality of color characteristics (for example, an LED that emits red, an LED that emits green, and an LED that emits blue), and the emission intensity of each color LED is changed for each emission. Thus, the color of the light emitted may be changed every time the flash is emitted. For example, the first light emission emits red light, the second light emission emits orange light, and the third light emission emits purple light. It may be changed.
Furthermore, the color of each light emission of the strobe may be changed by changing the light emission intensity of each color LED for each light emission. For example, the color of each light emission may be changed such that the first light emission is changed from red light to orange light, and the second light emission is changed from yellow light to yellow-green light. .
Thereby, since the light emitted for each light emission can be made different, it is possible to change the color of the subject photographed by each light emission, enhance the interest of the user, and change the subject in time series It will be easier to understand.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S81 that the remaining light emission count g = 0, the process proceeds to step S83, and the CPU 10 determines whether or not the light emission interval time has elapsed.
If it is determined in step S83 that the light emission interval time has not elapsed, the process stays in step S83 until it is determined that it has elapsed, and if it is determined that it has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S84.
If it is determined in step S81 that the remaining light emission count g = 0, the process may directly proceed to step S84 without performing the operation of step S83.

In step S84, the CPU 10 ends the exposure by closing the aperture / shutter 4.
Next, in step S85, the CPU 10 reads out the electric charge (photographed image data) stored in the CCD 5, generates a luminance color difference signal from the read out photoimage data, and buffers the generated image data of the generated luminance color difference signal. Store in memory.
As can be seen from FIG. 11, when the exposure is completed, it can be seen that the image is read out.

The state of the image of the captured image data (read captured image data) stored in the buffer memory will be described with reference to FIG.
As shown in FIG. 7, in the multiple exposure shooting, exposure is performed during the exposure time (imaging the subject). Here, since the multiple exposure shooting is performed in a completely dark situation, the subject is only exposed during the light emission period. Therefore, image data obtained by combining (synthesized) images captured by the respective light emission is captured by the CCD 5.

In step S86, the CPU 10 causes the image display unit 12 to display a preview of the captured image data stored in the buffer memory.
The image displayed in the preview is an image as shown in FIG.
Next, in step S87, the CPU 10 determines whether or not to record the captured image data (image data displayed as a preview) obtained by the multiple exposure shooting.
At this time, the user can select whether or not to record by operating the cross key or the like of the key input unit 14, and the CPU 10 receives an operation signal corresponding to the operation for recording from the key input unit 14. If it is sent, it is determined to be recorded, and if an operation signal not to be recorded is sent from the key input unit 14, it is determined not to be recorded.

If it is determined in step S87 that the photographed image data obtained by the multiple exposure photography is to be recorded, the process proceeds to step S88, and the CPU 10 compresses the photographed image data stored in the buffer memory and records it in the flash memory 13. Return to step S1.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S86 that the photographed image data obtained by the multiple exposure photographing is not recorded, the process directly returns to step S1.

E. As described above, in the second embodiment, multiple exposure photography can be easily performed based on, for example, the exposure time and the number of times of light emission set by the user.
In addition, since the user can set the exposure time and the number of flashes, it is possible to perform multiple exposure shooting according to the situation of the subject to be photographed (subject movement, movement speed), and the continuous change of the subject or the whole You can take an image that clearly shows the relationship with the movement of the camera. That is, it is possible to easily obtain an image in which a subject that has changed between different time spaces, for example, a time-series change of the subject can be observed with a single image without a sense of incongruity.
In principle, since the exposure conditions for multiple exposure and the light emission amount of each light emitted multiple times are calculated so that the proper exposure amount EV is obtained, image data with an appropriate exposure amount can be obtained even in multiple exposure shooting. Can do.
In addition, when the image is blown out when exposure is performed for the set exposure time, a notification that the image is blown out is notified before the multiple exposure shooting, so that the user does not blow out the image before the multiple exposure shooting. As described above, it is possible to darken the shooting situation or reset the exposure time, and to obtain image data that does not white out.

In addition, when the image is blown out when the set number of exposures is performed, a notification that the image is blown out is notified before the multiple exposure shooting, so that the user does not blow out the image before the multiple exposure shooting. As described above, it is possible to darken the shooting situation or reset the number of times of light emission, and to obtain image data that does not white out.
Further, if the difference in brightness of image data captured by the CCD 5 between the issuance of the strobe device 15 and the non-light emission is not a predetermined value or more, the user is informed that the contrast of the subject cannot be obtained by the light emission and the non-light emission. Since the notification is notified before the multiple exposure shooting, the user can darken the shooting state before the multiple exposure shooting so that a contrast can be obtained between light emission and non-light emission.

[Modification]
F. The above-described embodiment can be modified as follows.
(1) In the first embodiment, the exposure interval is calculated based on the imaging time set by the user and the number of exposures. However, the user sets the exposure interval and the number of exposures. You may be able to do that. In this case, the imaging time is calculated based on the set exposure interval and number of exposures.
Further, the user may be able to set the exposure interval and the imaging time. In this case, the number of exposures is calculated based on the set exposure interval and imaging time.
In short, it is only necessary to know the imaging time, the number of exposures, and the exposure interval.

  (2) In the first embodiment, when the shutter button is pressed, the imaging process ends when the imaging time set by the user has elapsed. However, the CPU 10 If an operation signal indicating that the multiple exposure is to be terminated is sent by the user's operation of the key input unit 14 before the multiple exposure, the multiple exposure may be terminated. In this case, there may be cases where the exposure for the set number of exposures has not been performed, so there is a possibility that image data with an appropriate exposure amount cannot be obtained, but this can be dealt with by increasing the sensitivity accordingly. it can.

(3) Also, in the first embodiment, when the single exposure amount ev value is calculated in step S8 of FIG. 3, whether or not the single exposure amount ev value is greater than a predetermined value. If it is determined that the number is large, the process may proceed to step S9.
When the single exposure amount ev value is smaller than a predetermined value, the charge accumulated in the CCD 5 by one exposure becomes too small, and the subject image obtained by one exposure becomes too thin and dark. Because it ends up.
Accordingly, when it is determined that the one-time exposure amount ev value is smaller than a predetermined value, the calculated one-time exposure amount ev value is set to a predetermined value, and the process proceeds to step S9. In this case, in step S9, the exposure conditions for each time are calculated and set based on a predetermined value.
The predetermined value may be an exposure amount when the aperture of the diaphragm / shutter 4 is maximized and the shutter speed is maximized, or an exposure amount arbitrarily set by the user. Alternatively, the minimum exposure amount required for each of the multiple exposures may be used.

(3) In the first embodiment, in step S9, the exposure conditions (aperture and exposure time) for each time are set based on the calculated exposure amount ev value. Alternatively, the exposure time may be arbitrarily set, and the remaining exposure conditions may be calculated and set based on the calculated exposure amount ev value and the set conditions. For example, when the user sets the exposure time, the aperture is set based on the calculated exposure amount ev value and the set exposure time.
The same applies when the conditions of the aperture or exposure time are determined in advance, and the remaining exposure conditions may be calculated and set based on the calculated exposure amount ev value and the predetermined conditions. Good.

(4) The strobe device 15 may emit light after each exposure of the multiple exposure shooting in the first embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an imaging process, exposure, LED light emission control signal, LED drive current, and image readout time chart of the multiple exposure shooting in the modified example (4), and will be described with reference to this figure.

Referring to FIG. 12, the imaging process is started by pressing the shutter button, and it can be seen that the imaging process is completed when the imaging time has elapsed. During this imaging time, multiple exposures are performed. It can be seen that the drive current flows through the LED and the strobe emits light.
Thereby, in the multiple exposure in the first embodiment, when the shooting situation is too dark, it is possible to obtain image data with an appropriate exposure amount by multiple exposure shooting by causing the strobe to emit light.

  Further, in the multiple exposure shooting of the second embodiment, since the exposure is continued even when the strobe is not emitting light, the brightness of the shooting situation is suitable for the multiple exposure shooting of the second embodiment. If the brightness is not high, the image may be blown out. However, by performing the multiple exposure shooting as in the modified example (4), the multiple exposure shooting can be performed with an appropriate exposure amount. There is also an advantage of being able to.

Here, the exposure time of each exposure and the light emission time of each light emission are the same, but the light emission time may be within the exposure time of each exposure.
If the exposure time for each exposure is the same as the light emission time for each light emission, the strobe light may be continuously emitted until the last exposure is completed. That is, even if the strobe is continuously emitted, the shutter is closed during the non-exposure time, so that the strobe light is not exposed by the CCD 5. In this case, although the power consumption increases compared to the case where the exposure time of each exposure and the light emission time of each light emission are the same, there is an advantage that the processing of the CPU 10 can be borne.

Further, until the final exposure is completed, the strobe may be blinked intermittently (in a predetermined cycle) to emit light without synchronizing with each exposure. In this case, power consumption can be suppressed to some extent, and there is an advantage that processing of the CPU 10 can be borne because it is not necessary to synchronize each exposure and light emission.
As a supplementary rule, the exposure conditions of each exposure and the light emission conditions of strobe light emitted during each exposure are calculated based on the appropriate exposure amount EV, and exposure is performed under the calculated exposure conditions. Needless to say, the flash fires under the calculated light emission conditions.
Also in this case, it is determined whether or not the image will be blown when exposure is performed for the set number of exposures under the calculated exposure conditions and light emission conditions for each exposure. To do.

(5) In the second embodiment, the light emission interval is calculated based on the exposure time set by the user and the number of times of light emission. However, the user sets the light emission interval and the number of times of light emission. It may be possible to set. In this case, the exposure time is calculated based on the set light emission interval and the number of times of light emission.
Further, the user may be able to set the light emission interval and the exposure time. In this case, the number of exposures is calculated based on the set light emission interval and exposure time.
In short, it is only necessary to know the exposure time, the number of times of light emission, and the light emission interval.

  (6) In the second embodiment, when the shutter button is pressed, the exposure ends when the exposure time set by the user elapses. However, the CPU 10 passes the exposure time. If an operation signal for ending the multiple exposure is sent before by the user's operation of the key input unit 14, the multiple exposure may be ended. In this case, there may be cases where light emission for the set number of times of light emission has not been performed, so there is a possibility that image data with an appropriate exposure amount cannot be obtained, but this can be dealt with by increasing the sensitivity accordingly. it can.

(7) In the second embodiment, in step S70, the CPU 10 determines the light emission condition (light emission) based on the light emission amount q of one light emission (the light emission amount stored in the light emission amount storage area). Intensity, light emission time) is set, but the user can arbitrarily set the light emission intensity or light emission time, and the remaining amount based on the light emission quantity q of one light emission and the set conditions. The light emission conditions may be calculated and set.
The same applies to the case where the light emission intensity or the light emission time is determined in advance, and the remaining light emission conditions may be calculated and set based on the light emission quantity q of one light emission and the predetermined conditions. Good.

(8) In the first embodiment, in the modification (4), the strobe device 15 has a plurality of color LEDs (for example, an LED that emits red light, an LED that emits green light, LED that emits blue light) and the like, and the light emission intensity of each color LED may be changed for each light emission to change the color of the light emitted for each light emission of the strobe. For example, the first light emission emits red light, the second light emission emits orange light, and the third light emission emits purple light. It may be changed.
Further, the color of each light emission of the strobe may be changed by changing the light emission intensity of each color LED for each light emission. For example, the color of each light emission may be changed such that the first light emission is changed from red light to orange light, and the second light emission is changed from yellow light to yellow-green light. .
Thereby, since the light emitted for each light emission can be made different, it is possible to change the color of the subject photographed by each light emission, enhance the interest of the user, and change the subject in time series It will be easier to understand.

  (9) In the first embodiment or the second embodiment, when the multiple exposure mode is set, the CPU 10 as the detection unit that detects the brightness around the digital camera described above is provided. When the brightness around the digital camera is detected and it is determined that the detected brightness is brighter than a preset threshold value, the above-described first embodiment has been described, or FIG. When it is determined that the image is dark while the multiple exposure shooting is performed such that the shutter 4 is controlled to be opened and closed a plurality of times during the period in which the electric charge photoelectrically converted by the CCD 5 is accumulated, the second implementation described above is performed. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which multiple exposure photographing is performed such that the strobe is controlled to emit light a plurality of times during one exposure period described in the above embodiment or shown in FIG. Regardless of the brightness around the digital camera, it is possible to obtain an image in which a time-series change of a moving subject can be confirmed with one image.

  (10) Further, in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, for example, setting means is provided for setting whether or not to emit the strobe based on an operation from the key input unit 14 by the user. When it is set not to emit the strobe by the means, the shutter 4 is operated during the period for accumulating the charges photoelectrically converted by the CCD 5 as described in the first embodiment or shown in FIG. When it is set that the strobe is to be fired while performing multiple exposure shooting such as performing multiple times of opening / closing control, during the single exposure period described in the second embodiment or shown in FIG. Further, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which multiple exposure shooting is performed such that the flash is controlled to emit light a plurality of times. As a result, various multiple exposure images can be obtained, and the user can select a multiple exposure shooting method.

  (11) Moreover, you may make it change into embodiment which combined said (1)-(10) arbitrarily.

  Finally, in each of the above embodiments, the case where the photographing apparatus of the present invention is applied to the digital camera 1 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and in summary, multiple exposure photographing is performed. Any device can be applied.

1 is a block diagram of a digital camera 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a strobe device 15. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the digital camera 1 of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the digital camera 1 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the time chart of the imaging process of multi-exposure photography in 1st Embodiment, exposure, and image reading. It is a figure which shows the mode of the image imaged by CCD5 by each exposure of multiple exposure. It is a figure which shows the mode of the image of the picked-up image data image | photographed by multiple exposure imaging | photography. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the digital camera 1 of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the digital camera 1 of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the digital camera 1 of 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the time chart of the exposure and image reading of multiple exposure imaging | photography in 2nd Embodiment, the light emission control signal of LED, and the drive current of LED. It is a figure which shows the time chart of the imaging process of multiple exposure imaging | photography in a modification, exposure, the light emission control signal of LED, the drive current of LED, and image reading.

Explanation of symbols

1 Digital Camera 2 Shooting Lens 3 Lens Drive Circuit 4 Shutter / Shutter 5 CCD
6 Driver 7 TG
8 Unit circuit 9 Memory 10 CPU
11 DRAM
12 Image display unit 13 Flash memory 14 Key input unit 15 Strobe device 16 Bus

Claims (22)

An image sensor that photoelectrically converts light from a subject;
A shutter for controlling an exposure time during which light from a subject is incident on the image sensor;
Read control means for accumulating charges photoelectrically converted by the image sensor for a predetermined imaging period, and reading the accumulated charges as image data;
Multiple exposure photographing control means for performing multiple exposure by controlling opening and closing of the shutter a plurality of times during the imaging period as a charge accumulation control period in the imaging device by the readout control means;
An imaging apparatus comprising: 2. The photographing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an exposure number setting means for setting an exposure number as a number of times that the multiple exposure photographing control means performs opening / closing control of the shutter during the imaging period. 3. The photographing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising an exposure interval setting unit that sets an exposure interval as a time interval for controlling the opening and closing of the shutter during the imaging period. Comprising a multiple exposure period setting means for setting the imaging period;
The exposure interval setting means includes
The exposure interval is calculated based on an imaging period set by the multiple exposure period setting means and an exposure count set by the exposure count setting means, and the calculated exposure interval is set. 3. The photographing apparatus according to 3. Detecting means for detecting brightness around the device;
Based on the detected ambient brightness, the multiple-exposure photographing control unit determines whether or not the image data obtained by controlling the opening and closing of the shutter a plurality of times is over-exposed. When,
In the case where it is determined by the whiteout judging means that the image data is whiteout, informing means for informing that whiteout is in advance;
The photographing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: Detecting means for detecting brightness around the device;
An exposure amount calculating means for calculating an exposure amount of each exposure in the multiple exposure based on the ambient brightness detected by the detecting means so that the multiple exposure by the multiple exposure photographing control means becomes an appropriate exposure amount;
Exposure time calculating means for calculating an exposure time based on the exposure amount calculated by the exposure amount calculating means,
The multiple exposure photographing control means includes
5. The photographing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each opening time of the shutter is controlled to be the exposure time calculated by the exposure time calculation unit. 7. A strobe light emission control means for performing strobe light emission control a plurality of times during the imaging period in synchronization with the opening / closing control of the shutter by the multiple exposure photographing control means. The imaging device described. The photographing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the strobe light emission control unit performs strobe light emission control so that a light emission color of the strobe light emitted during the imaging period becomes a different color at each light emission time. An image sensor that photoelectrically converts light from a subject;
A strobe that emits light,
Read control means for accumulating charges photoelectrically converted by the image sensor for a predetermined exposure period, and reading the accumulated charges as image data;
Multiple exposure photographing control means for performing multiple exposure by performing light emission control of the strobe a plurality of times during the exposure period as a charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the readout control means;
An imaging apparatus comprising: The multiple exposure photographing control means includes
The photographing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the light emission of the strobe emitted during the exposure period is controlled so that a different color is emitted at each light emission. 11. The photographing apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising a light emission number setting means for setting the number of times that the multiple exposure photographing control means performs light emission control of the strobe during the exposure period. 12. The photographing apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a light emission interval setting unit that sets a light emission interval as a time interval for controlling the light emission of the strobe during the exposure period. Exposure period setting means for setting the exposure period;
The light emission interval setting means includes:
13. The light emission interval is calculated based on the exposure period set by the exposure period setting unit and the exposure number set by the light emission number setting unit, and the calculated light emission interval is set. Shooting device. Detecting means for detecting brightness around the device;
Calculation means for calculating each light emission amount of the strobe in the multiple exposure based on the ambient brightness detected by the detection means so that the multiple exposure by the multiple exposure photographing control means becomes an appropriate exposure amount;
A light emission time calculating means for calculating the light emission time of the strobe based on the light emission amount calculated by the calculating means,
The multiple exposure photographing control means includes
The photographing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein each light emission time of the strobe is controlled so that the light emission time is calculated by the light emission time calculation unit. Detecting means for detecting brightness around the device;
Based on the detected ambient brightness, the multi-exposure photographing control unit determines whether or not image data to be obtained by controlling the flash to emit light a plurality of times is over-exposed. When,
A first informing means for informing that the image data is whitened in advance when the whiteout judging means determines that the image data is whiteout;
The photographing apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising: Determining means for determining whether or not a difference in brightness of light exposed to the image sensor between a light emission and non-issuance of the strobe is a predetermined value or more;
If it is determined by the determination means that the difference in brightness of light exposed to the image sensor between light emission and non-issuance is not greater than a predetermined value, the contrast is removed before the multiple exposure shooting control means performs multiple exposure. Second informing means for informing that there is no image data;
The photographing apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising: An image sensor that photoelectrically converts the light of the subject;
A shutter for controlling an exposure time during which light from a subject is incident on the image sensor;
A strobe that emits light,
Detection means for detecting the brightness of the surrounding environment of the device;
When the brightness detected by the detection means is brighter than a predetermined threshold value, the charge photoelectrically converted by the image sensor is accumulated for a predetermined imaging period, and the accumulated charge is read as image data. First read control means;
A first multiple-exposure shooting control unit configured to perform multiple exposure by controlling opening and closing of the shutter a plurality of times during the imaging period as a charge accumulation control period in the imaging element by the first readout control unit;
When the brightness detected by the detection means is darker than a predetermined threshold, the charge photoelectrically converted by the image sensor is stored for a predetermined exposure period, and the stored charge is read as image data. A second read control means;
A second multiple exposure photographing control means for performing multiple exposure by performing light emission control of the strobe a plurality of times during the exposure period as a charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the second readout control means;
An imaging apparatus comprising: An image sensor that converts light of a subject into image data;
A shutter for controlling an exposure time during which light from a subject is incident on the image sensor;
A strobe that emits light,
Setting means for setting whether or not to emit the strobe;
When the setting unit is set not to emit the strobe light, a charge that is photoelectrically converted by the image sensor is accumulated for a predetermined imaging period, and the accumulated charge is read as image data. Control means;
A first multiple-exposure shooting control unit configured to perform multiple exposure by controlling opening and closing of the shutter a plurality of times during the imaging period as a charge accumulation control period in the imaging element by the first readout control unit;
When the strobe is set to emit light by the setting means, a second read is performed in which charges photoelectrically converted by the image sensor are accumulated for a predetermined exposure period, and the accumulated charges are read as image data. Control means;
A second multiple exposure photographing control means for performing multiple exposure by performing light emission control of the strobe a plurality of times during the exposure period as a charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the second readout control means;
An imaging apparatus comprising: Read control processing for accumulating charges photoelectrically converted from the image sensor for a predetermined imaging period, and reading the accumulated charges as image data;
A multi-exposure shooting control process in which light from a subject is subjected to multiple exposure on the image sensor by controlling opening and closing of a shutter a plurality of times during the imaging period as a charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the readout control process; ,
A program characterized in that it is executed on a computer. Read control processing for accumulating charges photoelectrically converted by the image sensor for a predetermined exposure period, and reading the accumulated charges as image data;
A multi-exposure shooting control process in which light from a subject is subjected to multiple exposure on the image sensor by controlling the strobe to emit light a plurality of times during the exposure period as a charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the readout control process; ,
A program characterized in that it is executed on a computer. A detection process for detecting the brightness of the surrounding environment of the device;
When the brightness detected by the detection process is brighter than a predetermined threshold, the charge photoelectrically converted by the image sensor is accumulated for a predetermined imaging period, and the accumulated charge is read as image data. One read control process;
A first multiple-exposure shooting control process in which multiple exposure is performed by controlling opening and closing of a shutter a plurality of times during the imaging period as a charge accumulation control period in the imaging element by the first readout control process;
When the brightness detected by the detection process is darker than a predetermined threshold, the charge photoelectrically converted by the image sensor is stored for a predetermined exposure period, and the stored charge is read as image data. A second read control process;
A second multiple exposure shooting control process in which multiple exposure is performed by controlling the strobe to emit light a plurality of times during the exposure period as a charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the second readout control process;
A program characterized in that it is executed on a computer. A setting process for setting whether or not the flash fires,
First readout control for accumulating charges photoelectrically converted by the imaging device for a predetermined imaging period and reading the accumulated charges as image data when it is set not to emit the strobe by the setting process. Processing,
A first multiple-exposure shooting control process in which multiple exposure is performed by controlling opening and closing of a shutter a plurality of times during the imaging period as a charge accumulation control period in the imaging element by the first readout control process;
When the strobe is set to emit light according to the setting process, a second read is performed in which charges that are photoelectrically converted by the image sensor are accumulated for a predetermined exposure period, and the accumulated charges are read as image data. Control processing,
A second multiple-exposure shooting control process for performing multiple exposure by performing light emission control of the strobe a plurality of times during the exposure period as a charge accumulation control period in the image sensor by the second readout control process;
A program characterized in that it is executed on a computer.

Images