JP2009088688A - Imaging apparatus, its imaging method, and method for switching its settings - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an imaging apparatus which can confirm the fact that imaging has been performed by sound and can obtain imaging conditions by sound, and to provide its imaging method and a method for switching settings. <P>SOLUTION: When the set value of a specific imaging condition is switched, a sound corresponding to the switched set value is output from a speaker 16. When photography is directed by depressing a shutter button fully, a shutter sound reflecting the information of the specific photographying condition is output from the speaker 16. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging device, an imaging method thereof, and a setting switching method thereof, and more particularly to an imaging device having a voice guidance function, an imaging method thereof, and a setting switching method thereof.

  In general, a compact digital camera does not have a mechanical shutter mechanism, so that a shutter sound does not sound even when imaged. If the shutter sound does not sound, it becomes difficult to grasp the sense of imaging, so many digital cameras of this type have a function of generating a pseudo shutter sound.

  In Patent Document 1, it is proposed that when the pseudo shutter sound is generated, the demodulation rate of the shutter sound is changed between normal imaging (single frame imaging) and continuous shooting imaging.

  Patent Document 2 proposes changing the shutter sound in accordance with the set imaging mode.

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-228620 proposes using a sound output function provided in a camera to notify the necessity of battery replacement, the size of the number of images that can be captured, and the like with sound effects and melodies.

Further, in Patent Document 4, it is proposed to announce how to handle the camera by voice.
JP 2000-307902 A JP 2001-59987 A JP 2001-142131 A JP 2004-126007 A

  Conventional digital cameras are notified of various kinds of information by voice, but there is a drawback that it is impossible to grasp from the voice what conditions the actual imaging was performed. As a result, there is a drawback that it is impossible to grasp the success or failure of imaging.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an imaging apparatus capable of confirming with a sound that imaging has been performed and also capable of grasping imaging conditions with sound, and an imaging method and setting thereof. An object is to provide a switching method.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the object, an audio output that outputs sound in an imaging device that captures a subject image with an imaging unit in accordance with an imaging instruction and records the obtained image in a storage unit. And means for storing audio data defined for each set value for a specific imaging condition in association with the corresponding set value, and detecting switching of the set value for the specific imaging condition When the setting switch detection unit detects the switching of the setting value of the specific imaging condition, the audio data corresponding to the switched setting value is read from the audio data storage unit, There is provided an imaging apparatus comprising: an audio output control unit that outputs audio represented by data from the audio output unit.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, when the imaging condition is switched, the audio corresponding to the new set value of the switched imaging condition is output from the audio output means. Thereby, an imaging condition can be recognized with sound.

  The invention according to claim 2 is characterized in that, in order to achieve the object, the specific imaging condition is at least one of ISO sensitivity, white balance, exposure correction, aperture, or shutter speed. An imaging apparatus according to item 1, is provided.

  According to the second aspect of the invention, when at least one of ISO sensitivity, white balance, exposure correction, aperture, or shutter speed is switched, the sound corresponding to the new setting value of the switched imaging condition is sound. Output from the output means. Since these imaging conditions are directly related to the success or failure of imaging, the success or failure of imaging can be intuitively predicted at the imaging stage by outputting information on these imaging conditions as sound.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the object, an audio output that outputs sound in an imaging device that captures an image of a subject with an imaging unit and records the obtained image in a storage unit in accordance with an imaging instruction. Means, audio data storage means in which audio data determined for each set value for a specific imaging condition is stored in association with the corresponding setting value, and a set value for the specific imaging condition at the time of actual imaging The audio output unit reads out the audio data corresponding to the acquired set value from the audio data storage unit, uses the audio represented by the audio data as a shutter sound, and synchronizes with the imaging by the imaging unit. And an audio output control means for outputting the image pickup apparatus.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, the sound output unit outputs the shutter sound reflecting the setting value information of the specific imaging condition during the main imaging. As a result, it is possible to confirm that imaging has been performed and also to confirm imaging conditions during actual imaging.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the object, an audio output that outputs sound in an imaging device that captures a subject image with an imaging unit in accordance with an imaging instruction and records the obtained image in a storage unit. Means, sound data storage means storing sound data of a standard shutter sound, and information on a set value of a specific imaging condition at the time of actual imaging, and the standard shutter sound of the standard shutter sound according to the acquired set value Shutter sound generation means for processing sound data and generating sound data of shutter sound output at the time of actual imaging, and sound represented by the sound data generated by the shutter sound generation means as shutter sound for imaging by the imaging means There is provided an imaging apparatus comprising: audio output control means for outputting the sound from the audio output means in synchronization.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, a shutter sound reflecting the setting value information of the specific imaging condition is output from the audio output means during the main imaging. At this time, sound obtained by processing sound data of standard shutter sound in accordance with the set value of the imaging condition is output as the shutter sound. As a result, the number of shutter sound data prepared in advance can be reduced.

  In the invention according to claim 5, in order to achieve the above object, the shutter sound generation means distorts the sound data of the standard shutter sound according to the set value of the specific imaging condition at the time of actual imaging. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 4, wherein a shutter sound output at the time of the main image pickup is generated.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the sound data of the standard shutter sound is distorted according to the set value of the specific imaging condition at the time of actual imaging, thereby generating the shutter sound output at the time of actual imaging.

  The invention according to claim 6 is characterized in that, in order to achieve the object, the specific imaging condition is at least one of ISO sensitivity, white balance, exposure correction, aperture, or shutter speed. Item 6. An imaging device according to Item 3, 4 or 5 is provided.

  According to the sixth aspect of the invention, at least one information of ISO sensitivity, white balance, exposure correction, aperture, or shutter speed is reflected and output in the shutter sound.

  In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 7 starts moving image capturing in response to an imaging start instruction, ends moving image capturing in response to an imaging end instruction, and stores the obtained moving image data In the imaging apparatus to be recorded in the means, an audio output means for outputting sound, an audio data storage means storing audio data indicating the start of moving image capturing, and audio data indicating the end of moving image capturing; and the imaging start instruction In response, the audio data indicating the start of imaging of the moving image is read from the audio data storage means, and the audio represented by the audio data is output from the audio output means, and the audio data storage is performed in response to the imaging end instruction. Audio data indicating completion of imaging of the moving image is read out from the means, and sound output control means is provided for outputting the sound represented by the sound data from the sound output means. To provide an imaging apparatus characterized by and.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, when the start of moving image capturing is instructed, sound indicating the start of moving image capturing is output from the sound output means. When the end of imaging is instructed, sound indicating the end of moving image capturing is output from the sound output means. Thereby, it can be confirmed by sound that the image is actually captured.

  In the invention according to claim 8, in order to achieve the object, the sound data storage means further stores sound data indicating that a moving image is being captured, and the sound output control means is configured to capture the moving image, 8. The imaging apparatus according to claim 7, wherein audio data indicating that the moving image is being captured is read from audio data storage means, and audio represented by the audio data is output from the audio output means.

  According to the eighth aspect of the invention, the sound output means outputs the sound indicating that the image is being picked up even while the moving image is picked up. Thereby, it can be confirmed that the moving image is being captured more reliably.

  The invention according to claim 9 is an audio data correction means for extracting audio data from moving image data obtained by imaging and for removing a component of audio data indicating that the imaging is in progress from the audio data in order to achieve the object. An image pickup apparatus according to claim 7 or 8 is provided.

  According to the ninth aspect of the invention, the audio component output during imaging is removed from the audio data of the captured moving image and recorded. Thereby, it is possible to prevent unnecessary audio from being recorded.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the setting switching method of an imaging apparatus capable of switching the setting of a specific imaging condition to achieve the object, the step of detecting the switching of the setting of the specific imaging condition; The step of reading out the audio data corresponding to the switched setting value from the audio database in which the audio data determined for each set value for the specific imaging condition is recorded in association with the corresponding setting value There is provided a method for switching the setting of an imaging apparatus, comprising: a step of outputting sound represented by sound data from sound output means.

  According to the invention of claim 10, when the imaging condition is switched, the sound corresponding to the new set value of the switched imaging condition is output from the sound output means. Thereby, an imaging condition can be recognized with sound.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided an imaging method of an imaging apparatus in which a subject image is captured by an imaging unit in accordance with an imaging instruction, and the obtained image is recorded in a storage unit in order to achieve the object. Obtaining information on setting values of specific imaging conditions in the voice database in which the audio data defined for each setting value for the specific imaging conditions is recorded in association with the corresponding setting values, A step of reading out audio data corresponding to the acquired set value, and a step of outputting the sound represented by the read out audio data as a shutter sound from the audio output unit in synchronization with imaging by the imaging unit. An imaging method of the imaging apparatus is provided.

  According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the sound output means outputs the shutter sound reflecting the setting value information of the specific imaging condition during the main imaging. As a result, it is possible to confirm that imaging has been performed and also to confirm imaging conditions during actual imaging.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an imaging method of an imaging apparatus in which a subject image is captured by an imaging unit in accordance with an imaging instruction and the obtained image is recorded in a storage unit in order to achieve the object. A step of acquiring information on a set value of a specific imaging condition in the step, a step of processing audio data of a standard shutter sound according to the acquired set value, and generating audio data of a shutter sound output at the time of actual imaging, There is provided an image pickup method for an image pickup apparatus comprising: a step of outputting sound represented by generated sound data as shutter sound in synchronization with image pickup by the image pickup means and outputting the sound from the sound output means.

  According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the shutter output sound reflecting the setting value information of the specific imaging condition is output from the audio output means during the main imaging. As a result, it is possible to confirm that imaging has been performed and also to confirm imaging conditions during actual imaging.

  According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, the sound data of the shutter sound output at the time of the main imaging is the set value of the specific imaging condition at the time of the main imaging of the voice data of the standard shutter sound The imaging method of the imaging apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the imaging method is generated by distorting in accordance with the imaging method.

  According to the thirteenth aspect of the invention, the sound data of the standard shutter sound is distorted according to the set value of the specific imaging condition at the time of the main imaging, thereby generating the shutter sound that is output at the time of the main imaging.

  According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the object, the imaging of the moving image is started according to the imaging start instruction, the imaging of the moving image is ended according to the imaging end instruction, and the obtained moving image data is stored. In the imaging method of the imaging device recorded in the means, a step of outputting a sound indicating start of imaging of a moving image from an audio output unit according to the imaging start instruction, and an end of imaging of the moving image according to the imaging end instruction An image pickup method for an image pickup apparatus comprising: a step of outputting sound from a sound output means.

  According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, when the start of moving image capturing is instructed, sound indicating the start of moving image capturing is output from the sound output means. When the end of imaging is instructed, sound indicating the end of moving image capturing is output from the sound output means. Thereby, it can be confirmed by sound that the image is actually captured.

  In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 15 includes the step of outputting sound indicating that the moving image is being picked up from the sound output means during picking up the moving image. An imaging method for an apparatus is provided.

  According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the sound output means outputs the sound indicating that the image is being picked up even while the moving image is picked up. Thereby, it can be confirmed that the moving image is being captured more reliably.

  In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 16 includes a step of extracting audio data from moving image data obtained by imaging, and a step of removing an audio component indicating that the imaging is in progress from the extracted audio data And recording the moving image data in which the audio component indicating that the imaging is being performed is removed from the audio data. 16. The imaging method of the imaging apparatus according to claim 15, further comprising:

  According to the ninth aspect of the invention, the audio component output during imaging is removed from the audio data of the captured moving image and recorded. Thereby, it is possible to prevent unnecessary audio from being recorded.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to determine imaging conditions by sound. In addition, this makes it possible to intuitively grasp the success or failure of imaging with sound. Furthermore, it is possible to provide an imaging device that is easy to use for people who are blind.

  DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of an imaging device, an imaging method thereof, and a setting switching method thereof according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

<First Embodiment>
FIG. 1 is an external view showing an external configuration of an embodiment of an imaging apparatus according to the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, the imaging device 10 is an electronic camera having a function of recording and reproducing still images and moving images, and a power switch 12, a shutter button 14, a speaker 16 and the like are provided on the upper surface thereof. Yes. Further, on the back surface of the imaging apparatus 10, an operation mode changeover switch 18, a zoom switch 20, a monitor 22, a viewfinder eyepiece 24, a menu button 26, a display button 28, a multifunction switch 30, a delete button 32, and the like are provided. In the front, a flash 34, a finder window 36, a lens 38, a microphone 40, and the like are provided.

  The power switch 12 is an operation means for switching the power of the imaging apparatus 10 on and off.

  The shutter button 14 is an operation means for inputting an imaging instruction, and is a two-stage unit having an S1 switch that is turned on at a half-pressed position and an S2 switch that is turned on at a fully-pressed position further depressed from the half-pressed position. It consists of a stroke type switch.

  At the time of taking a still image, the imaging apparatus 10 performs imaging preparation, that is, performs AE (Automatic Exposure) and AF (Auto-Focus) processing when the shutter button 14 is half-pressed, and performs full imaging, that is, captures an image when the shutter button 14 is fully pressed. Imaging and recording are performed.

  Further, at the time of moving image capturing, the imaging apparatus 10 starts capturing a moving image by fully pressing the shutter button 14, and after releasing the full press, presses the shutter button 14 again to finish capturing the moving image. Alternatively, when the shutter button 14 is fully pressed, the imaging of the moving image is started, and while the shutter button 14 is fully pressed, the moving image is captured. The user can arbitrarily select this operation mode.

  The speaker 16 is used for outputting sound during moving image reproduction, and outputs shutter sound, operation sound, beep sound, guidance sound, and the like.

  The operation mode changeover switch 18 is an operation mode of the imaging apparatus 10 among a still image capturing mode for capturing a still image, a moving image capturing mode for capturing a moving image, and a playback mode for reproducing an image. It is an operation means for switching. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the operation mode changeover switch 18 is configured by a slide type switch.

  The zoom switch 20 is an operation means for inputting a zoom instruction. The zoom switch 20 is composed of a zoom wide switch 20W for inputting a zoom instruction in the wide direction and a zoom tele switch 20T for inputting a zoom instruction in the tele direction. Has been.

  The monitor 22 is composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) capable of color display. The monitor 22 is used as a playback display screen for captured images in the playback mode, and is used as an electronic viewfinder by displaying through the images output from the image sensor in the moving image or still image imaging mode. In addition, it is used as a GUI during various settings.

  The menu button 26 is an operation means for inputting a menu screen display instruction to the monitor 22.

  The display button 28 is an operation button for inputting an instruction for switching the screen display of the monitor 22.

  The imaging device 10 switches the screen display of the monitor 22 every time the display button 28 is pressed in the moving image or still image imaging mode, and superimposes the imaging conditions (aperture value, shutter speed, ISO sensitivity) on the through image. , Image size, etc.) are switched to a state in which a framing guide (so-called grid screen) is further displayed in a superimposed state, a state in which only a through image is displayed, and a state in which the screen display is off.

  Also, in the playback mode, every time the display button 28 is pressed, information on the imaging conditions (aperture value at the time of imaging, shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, image size, etc.) and the like are displayed superimposed on the playback image. Then, the state is switched to a state in which only a reproduced image is displayed, or a state in which a plurality of images are displayed together (a so-called multi-display state).

  The multifunction switch 30 includes a cross key 30A and an enter button 30B arranged at the center thereof.

  The cross key 30 </ b> A is a multi-function operation unit capable of inputting instructions in four directions, up, down, left, and right, and a function assigned according to the state of the imaging device 10 is switched.

  For example, at the time of various settings using the monitor 22, a function for selecting a menu item from a menu screen displayed on the monitor 22 or selecting an item in the menu item is assigned. At this time, the selection of the menu item or the like by the cross key 30A is confirmed by pressing the center determination button 30B.

  In the moving image or still image capturing mode, a function for instructing switching of the flash mode (auto flash, forced flash, red-eye reduction flash, off) is assigned to the button above the cross key 30A, and the macro function is allocated to the lower button. A function for instructing on / off switching of (close-up function) is assigned.

  Furthermore, in the playback mode, a function for instructing to advance one frame of an image is assigned to the right button of the cross key 30A, and a function for instructing to return one frame of an image is assigned to the left button.

  The delete button 32 is an operation means for inputting an instruction to delete the image being reproduced and displayed on the monitor 22 in the reproduction mode.

  The lens 38 is constituted by a retractable zoom lens, and retracts in the camera body except during imaging.

  The microphone 40 is a device for inputting sound, and is used, for example, at the time of moving image capturing or voice memo.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the imaging apparatus 10 shown in FIG.

  As shown in the figure, the imaging apparatus 10 of the present embodiment includes a central processing unit (CPU) 50, an operation unit 54, an optical system 56, an imaging element 58, a CDS analog encoder 60, a white balance amplifier 62, and gamma correction. Processing unit 64, dot sequential circuit 66, A / D converter 68, zoom motor 70, iris motor 72, AF motor 74, zoom motor driver 76, iris motor driver 78, AF motor driver 80, built-in clock 82, electronic volume 84, memory controller 86, main memory 88, compression / decompression processor 90, MPEG encoder / decoder 92, YC signal generator 94, color converter 96, NTSC encoder 98, external memory interface 100, external memory 102, communication interface Face 104, monitor driver 108, audio Output circuit 110 is configured to include a voice database 112 or the like.

  The CPU 50 functions as a control unit that controls the overall operation of the imaging apparatus, and controls the overall operation of the imaging apparatus according to a predetermined control program. Further, the CPU 50 functions as an arithmetic processing unit, and executes various arithmetic processes such as an AE calculation, an AF calculation, and a white balance (WB) adjustment calculation according to a predetermined calculation processing program. Each unit of the imaging device 10 is connected to the CPU 50 via the bus 52.

  The operation unit 54 includes various operation means such as the power switch 12, the shutter button 14, the operation mode switch 18, the zoom switch 20, the menu button 26, the display button 28, the multifunction switch 30, and the delete button 32 shown in FIG. A signal corresponding to the operation from the user is output to the CPU 50. The CPU 50 controls each unit of the imaging device 10 based on the signal from the operation unit 54, and controls lens driving control, imaging operation control, image processing control, image recording control, reproduction control, monitor 22 display control, and sound. Perform output control.

  The optical system 56 (including the lens 38 in FIG. 1) is configured by arranging a zoom lens, a focus lens, a diaphragm, and the like (not shown) on the optical axis. The zoom lens, the focus lens, and the diaphragm are driven by the zoom motor 70, the iris motor 72, and the AF motor 74, respectively.

  During zooming, the CPU 50 outputs a control signal to the zoom motor driver 76 to drive the zoom motor 70 and move the zoom lens in the optical axis direction. Thereby, the lens 38 is zoomed.

  Further, the CPU 50 outputs a control signal to the AF motor driver 80 at the time of focusing to drive the AF motor 74 to move the focus lens in the optical axis direction. Thereby, focusing of the lens 38 is performed.

  Further, the CPU 18 outputs a control signal to the iris motor driver 78 to drive the iris motor 72 and adjust the aperture value (aperture aperture) when adjusting the aperture.

  The light that has passed through the optical system 56 enters the light receiving surface of the image sensor 58.

  A color CCD having a predetermined color filter array (for example, Bayer array) is used as the image sensor 58, and a large number of light receiving elements (photodiodes) are two-dimensionally arranged on the light receiving surface thereof. The subject image formed on the light receiving surface of the CCD 58 is converted into a signal charge of an amount corresponding to the amount of incident light by each light receiving element. The signal charges accumulated in each light receiving element are sequentially read out as analog image signals (R, G, B signals) corresponding to the signal charges in accordance with instructions from the CPU 50.

  In this example, a CCD is used as the image pickup device, but an image pickup device other than the CCD (for example, a CMOS) may be used.

  The analog image signal read from the CCD 58 is input to the CDS analog decoder 60.

  The CDS analog decoder 60 samples and holds the analog image signal read from the CCD 58 (correlated double sampling processing), cancels the noise component, and outputs the signal to the white balance amplifier 62.

  The white balance amplifier 62 adjusts the white balance for the image signal output from the CDS analog decoder 60 under the control of the CPU 50. The CPU 50 calculates the average integrated value for each color of the analog image signal acquired from each divided area of the CCD 58, determines the light source type of the imaging environment based on the average integrated value for each color, and according to the determined light source type. Then, the electronic volume (EVR) 84 is controlled to control the gain in the white balance amplifier 62, and the white balance is adjusted with respect to the image signal output from the CDS analog decoder 60.

  The analog image signal output from the white balance amplifier 62 is input to the gamma correction processing unit 64 and subjected to gamma correction, and then subjected to dot sequentialization by the dot sequential circuit 66 (the color associated with the color filter array of the single CCD). Processing for interpolating the spatial deviation of the signals and converting the color signals into simultaneous equations).

  The dot sequential analog image signal output from the dot sequential circuit 66 is converted into a digital image signal by the A / D converter 68 and stored in the main memory 88 via the memory controller 86.

  The main memory 88 is used not only as a temporary storage area for image signals (image data) but also as a calculation work area for the CPU 50. The memory controller 86 controls reading and writing to the main memory 88 in accordance with a control signal from the CPU 50.

  The YC signal creation unit 94 takes in a digital image signal stored in the main memory 88 in accordance with a control signal from the CPU 50, and generates an image signal (YC) composed of a luminance signal (Y signal) and color difference signals (Cr signal and Cb signal). Signal).

  The compression / decompression processing unit 90 compresses the image data generated by the YC signal creation unit 94 according to a predetermined compression format (for example, JPEG) in accordance with a control signal from the CPU 50. Further, the compressed image data is decompressed and converted into uncompressed image data.

  The MPEG encoder & decoder 92 encodes and decodes moving image data and audio data according to the MPEG format in accordance with a control signal from the CPU 50.

  When the image is output to an external display device (VIDEO OUT), the color conversion unit 96 outputs a Y signal of an image signal (YC signal) composed of a luminance signal (Y signal) and a color difference signal (Cr signal and Cb signal), Cr The ratio of signal and Cb signal is converted from 4: 4: 4 to 4: 2: 2. The converted image signal is converted into an NTSC video signal by the NTSC encoder 98 and output to an external display device.

  The external memory interface unit (external memory I / F) 100 transmits / receives data to / from the external memory 102 mounted in the card slot according to a control signal from the CPU 50.

  The external memory 102 is a storage medium that can be attached to and detached from the imaging apparatus 10. As the external memory 102, a semiconductor memory card represented by an xD picture card (registered trademark), smart media (registered trademark), or a medium such as a portable small hard disk, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, or a magneto-optical disk is used. Can do.

  In this example, the image data is recorded in the external memory 102. However, a configuration in which the image data is recorded in the built-in memory is also possible.

  A communication interface unit (communication I / F) 104 transmits and receives data to and from an external device (such as a personal computer) 106 connected to the imaging apparatus 10 in accordance with a control signal from the CPU 50. As this communication method, for example, USB, IEEE1394, Bluetooth (registered trademark), or the like can be adopted.

  The monitor driver 108 controls the monitor 22 according to the control signal from the CPU 50, converts the luminance signal and color difference signal input from the YC signal creation unit 94 into signals for LCD output, and outputs the signals to the monitor 22.

  The built-in clock 82 measures the current date and time, and outputs the measured date and time information to the CPU 50 in response to a request from the CPU 50.

  The audio input / output circuit 110 performs predetermined signal processing on the audio signal output to the speaker 16 and the audio signal input from the microphone 40 in accordance with a control signal from the CPU 50.

  The audio database 112 is a database in which audio data such as shutter sound and operation sound output from the speaker 16 is stored, and is stored in the ROM.

  In addition to the voice database 112, the ROM stores various programs executed by the CPU 50, data necessary for control, and the like.

  Next, basic imaging and playback functions of the imaging apparatus 10 of the present embodiment will be described.

  First, the basic operation of the imaging apparatus 10 of the present embodiment at the time of capturing a still image will be described.

  Still image capturing can be performed by setting the operation mode of the image capturing apparatus 10 to the still image capturing mode.

  When the operation mode of the image capturing apparatus 10 is set to the still image capturing mode by the operation mode changeover switch 18, capturing of an image signal for through display from the CCD 50 is started.

  The image signal output from the CCD 58 is subjected to predetermined processing by the CDS analog decoder 60, the white balance amplifier 62, and the gamma correction processing unit 64, and then the image signal composed of a luminance signal and a color difference signal by the YC signal generation unit 94. And output to the monitor 22 via the monitor driver (LCD driver) 108.

  The photographer confirms an image (through image) displayed through on the monitor 22, determines the composition, and presses the shutter button 14 halfway.

  When the shutter button 14 is half-pressed, the CPU 50 performs AE processing and AF processing as preparation for imaging.

  In the AE process, the CPU 50 calculates an EV value from the subject luminance detected by the division photometry. Then, an imaging sensitivity (ISO sensitivity) at the time of actual imaging is determined from the calculated EV value (at the time of sensitivity AUTO), and an aperture value and a shutter speed are determined according to a predetermined program diagram.

  In the AF process, for example, the CPU 50 moves the focus lens so that the high frequency component of the G signal of the image signal is maximized.

  When the shutter button 14 is half-pressed, the AE process and the AF process are performed, and then the shutter button 14 is fully pressed, the CPU 50 performs the main imaging process.

  That is, first, the CCD 58 is exposed with the sensitivity, aperture value, and shutter speed determined by the AE process, and a recording image is taken.

  At this time, a shutter sound is output from the speaker 16 in synchronization with the exposure of the CCD 58. This shutter sound changes according to specific imaging conditions. This will be described in detail later.

  The image signal obtained by imaging is converted into a luminance signal and a color difference signal by the YC signal creation unit 94. The luminance signal and the color difference signal are compressed in a predetermined format (for example, JPEG) by the compression / decompression processing unit 90 and then recorded in the external memory 102.

  Next, a basic operation of the imaging apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment at the time of capturing a moving image will be described.

  Moving image capturing can be performed by setting the operation mode of the imaging apparatus 10 to the moving image capturing mode.

  When the operation mode of the image pickup apparatus 10 is set to the moving image pickup mode by the operation mode changeover switch 18, the capturing of the image signal for through display from the CCD 50 is started in the same manner as in the still image pickup.

  In the case of moving image imaging, imaging is started when the shutter button 14 is fully pressed, and when the shutter button 14 is fully pressed again after the full pressing is released, imaging ends.

  When the shutter button 14 is fully pressed and imaging is started, images are continuously captured at a predetermined frame rate. In addition, sound is recorded by the microphone 40.

  The image signal output from the CCD 50 is subjected to predetermined processing by the CDS analog decoder 60, the white balance amplifier 62, and the gamma correction processing unit 64, and then the luminance signal (Y signal) and the color difference signal ( Converted into an image signal (YC signal) composed of a Cr signal and a Cb signal.

  The luminance signal and color difference signal created by the YC signal creation unit 94 and the audio signal recorded by the microphone 40 are input to the MPEG encoder & decoder 92, subjected to MPEG compression coding, and recorded in the external memory 102.

  Next, the basic operation of the imaging apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment during image reproduction will be described.

  The image can be reproduced by setting the operation mode of the imaging apparatus 10 to the reproduction mode.

  When the operation mode of the image pickup apparatus 10 is set to the reproduction mode by the operation mode changeover switch 18, the compressed data of the last image taken is read out from the external memory 102.

  When this image file is a still image file, the compressed data read from the external memory 102 is decompressed by the compression / decompression processing unit 90 into an uncompressed YC signal, and then output to the monitor 22 and displayed.

  If the image file is a moving image file, the compressed data read from the external memory 102 is decoded by the MPEG encoder & decoder 92 and then output to the monitor 22 for display.

  When the right button of the cross key 30A is operated during image reproduction, the frame is advanced, the next image is read from the external memory 102, and is reproduced and displayed on the monitor 22.

  When the left button of the cross key 30A is operated during the reproduction of an image, the frame is moved back, the previous image is read from the external memory 102, and is reproduced and displayed on the monitor 22.

  Next, the output of the shutter sound, which is a characteristic part of the imaging device 10 of the present embodiment, will be described.

  As described above, in the imaging apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, when a still image is captured, when the shutter button 14 is fully pressed to instruct the actual imaging, a shutter sound is output from the speaker 16 in synchronization with the exposure of the CCD 58. The This shutter sound is generated by specific imaging conditions (ISO sensitivity, white balance, exposure correction, aperture, shutter speed, AE mode (manual AE / program AE / auto AE / aperture priority AE / shutter speed priority AE / portrait / sports / Night view / slow sync, etc.)

  FIG. 3 is a table showing an output example of the shutter sound when the shutter sound is changed according to the ISO sensitivity at the time of actual imaging.

  As shown in the table, for example, when the ISO sensitivity set for the main imaging is ISO 100, the shutter sound is output as “isohyac”. Similarly, when the ISO sensitivity set at the time of actual imaging is ISO 200, “Isolation” is output, and when ISO 400 is ISO 400, “Isolation” is output. That is, the set ISO sensitivity is output as it is as a voice (however, the prefix “iso” may be omitted).

  FIG. 4 is a table showing an example of shutter sound output when the shutter sound is changed according to the setting of the white balance (light source type) at the time of actual imaging.

  As shown in the table, for example, when the white balance set for actual imaging is a light bulb (tungsten light), the shutter sound is output as “tungsten”. Similarly, when the white balance set at the time of actual imaging is a fluorescent lamp, “Keikouto” is output, and when it is fine, “Hare” is output. That is, the set name of the white balance is output as audio as it is.

  FIG. 5 is a table showing an output example of the shutter sound when the shutter sound is changed according to the exposure correction amount set during the main imaging.

  As shown in the table, for example, when the exposure correction amount set at the time of actual imaging is ± 0, the shutter sound is output as “zero eve”. Similarly, when the exposure correction amount set at the time of actual imaging is +1, “plus one eve” is output, and when it is −1, “minus eve” is output. That is, the set exposure correction amount is output as audio as it is (however, the suffix “Eevee” may be omitted).

  FIG. 6 is a table showing an example of shutter sound output when the shutter sound is changed in accordance with the aperture value set during the main imaging.

  As shown in the table, for example, when the aperture value (f value) set at the time of actual imaging is f1.4, the shutter sound is output as “Effect Tenyon”. Similarly, when the aperture value set during actual imaging is f2, “Effy” is output, and when it is f4, “Effy” is output. That is, the set aperture value is output as audio as it is (however, the prefix “F” may be omitted).

  FIG. 7 is a table showing an example of shutter sound output when the shutter sound is changed according to the shutter speed set during the main imaging.

  As shown in the table, for example, when the shutter speed set at the time of actual imaging is ½ second, the shutter sound is output as “Nibunoichibyo”. Similarly, when the shutter speed set during the main imaging is 1 second, “NO” is output, and when the valve imaging is performed, “VALVE” is output. In other words, the set shutter speed is output as sound as it is (however, the “blow” suffix may be omitted).

  FIG. 8 is a table showing an example of shutter sound output when the shutter sound is changed in accordance with the AE mode set at the time of actual imaging.

  As shown in the table, for example, when the AE mode set during the main imaging is the program AE, the shutter sound is output as “program”. Similarly, “auto” is output when the AE mode set at the time of actual imaging is AUTO, and “overload” is output when the aperture priority AE (AV) is set. That is, the set name of the AE mode is output as voice as it is.

  As described above, in the imaging apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, a shutter sound corresponding to a specific imaging condition is output during the main imaging (a “mode” may be added to the suffix sound).

  In the audio database 112, the sound data of the shutter sound for each imaging condition is recorded in association with the set value of each imaging condition. The CPU 50 accesses the sound database 112 and acquires the sound data of the corresponding shutter sound from the setting value information of the imaging condition.

  It should be noted that the user can arbitrarily select which imaging sound is output according to which imaging condition. This selection operation is performed on a menu screen, for example. That is, when the menu button 26 is pressed to call up the menu screen on the monitor 22, a shutter sound selection menu is prepared as one of the menu items, and the shutter sound is changed according to which imaging condition. Has been made available for selection. In this screen, it is also possible to select a normal shutter sound (for example, pasha) or turn off the shutter sound.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of shutter sound output processing according to the imaging conditions.

  First, the CPU 50 determines whether or not the shutter button 14 has been half-pressed based on an input from the operation unit 52 (step S10).

  If it is determined that the shutter button 14 is half-pressed, preparation for imaging is performed (step S11). That is, each process of AE, AF, and AWB is performed.

  When the imaging preparation is completed, information on imaging conditions necessary for outputting the shutter sound is acquired (step S12). Here, for example, when shutter sound is output according to ISO sensitivity, ISO sensitivity information at the time of actual imaging is acquired, and when shutter sound is output according to white balance, white balance setting information is obtained. get.

  When the information on the imaging conditions necessary for sounding the shutter sound is acquired, the CPU 50 accesses the audio database 112 and searches for the audio data of the shutter sound corresponding to the acquired imaging condition. For example, when the shutter sound is output according to the ISO sensitivity and the ISO sensitivity at the time of the main imaging is set to 100, the sound database 112 is searched for the sound data of the shutter sound corresponding to the ISO sensitivity 100. Then, the retrieved voice data is acquired.

  When the shutter sound audio data is acquired in this manner, the CPU 50 determines whether or not the half-press of the shutter button 14 has been released based on the input from the operation unit 52 (step S14). If it is determined that the half-press of the shutter button 14 is released, it is determined whether or not the shutter button 14 is fully pressed (step S15).

  If it is determined that the shutter button 14 has not been fully pressed, the CPU 50 returns to step S10 and again determines whether or not the shutter button 14 has been half-pressed based on the input from the operation unit 52.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the shutter button 14 has been fully pressed, the CPU 50 performs a main imaging process (step S16). That is, the CCD is exposed at the aperture value and shutter speed obtained as a result of AE, and a recording image is acquired.

  Also, the audio data acquired simultaneously with the main imaging is reproduced and output from the speaker 16 in synchronization with the exposure of the CCD (step S17).

  For example, when the shutter sound is output according to the ISO sensitivity, and the ISO sensitivity is 100, the sound of “iso-hyaku” is output from the speaker 16 as the shutter sound.

  The CPU 50 performs various signal processing on the image data obtained by imaging and records it in the external memory 102 (step S18).

  Thereafter, the CPU 50 determines whether or not the power is turned off based on the input from the operation unit 52 (step S19). If the power is not turned off, the process returns to step S10 and the above processing is executed again. On the other hand, if it is determined that the power is turned off, the process is terminated.

  As described above, in the imaging apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, the shutter sound corresponding to the imaging condition is output from the speaker 16 during imaging. Thereby, the imaging condition can be grasped by sound, and the success or failure of the imaging can be intuitively grasped from this sound. That is, for example, when imaging is performed with low sensitivity such as ISO 100 in a dark situation, occurrence of camera shake can be predicted, and it is possible to determine success or failure of imaging on the spot from the shutter sound. Similarly, when the shutter speed is slow, the occurrence of camera shake can be predicted, so it is possible to determine the success or failure of imaging on the spot from the shutter sound.

  In particular, when the auto mode or the like is selected as the AE mode, the photographer often takes an image without worrying about the shutter speed, the aperture value, the ISO sensitivity, and the like. By being notified by voice, the success or failure of imaging can be recognized early. And when it fails, it can respond quickly, such as re-taking, and it can prevent missing a photo opportunity.

  Even when ISO sensitivity, shutter speed, etc. are set by itself (in manual mode, etc.), the imaging conditions are announced by voice during imaging, so it can be confirmed that the imaging is correct, and imaging can be performed safely and efficiently. It can be performed.

  Moreover, since it is output as a shutter sound, it can be confirmed at the same time that imaging has been performed.

  In addition, by outputting various kinds of information with sound in this way, it is possible to provide an imaging device that is easy to use even for visually impaired people.

  In this example, a shutter sound corresponding to any one of the imaging conditions is output, but a shutter sound corresponding to a plurality of imaging conditions may be output. For example, a shutter sound corresponding to the ISO sensitivity and the shutter speed may be output. In this case, for example, as the shutter sound, the ISO sensitivity and shutter speed setting values are read in order. For example, when the ISO sensitivity is ISO100 and the shutter speed is 1/2 second, the shutter sound is output as “Isohyaku Nibunoichibyo”. Similarly, when outputting a shutter sound corresponding to the ISO sensitivity, shutter speed, and aperture value, each setting value is read out in turn.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the contents of the setting values of each imaging condition are read out as they are as a shutter sound, but the type of shutter sound is not limited to this. That is, the type of shutter sound is not limited as long as each imaging condition can be distinguished and the set value can be distinguished.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the output may be distorted (add a noise component) according to the set value with the same sound. In the example shown in the figure, the sound is distorted as the sensitivity increases with the shutter sound at ISO 100 as a reference. That is, the sound “Kean” is used as a reference, and the sound is gradually distorted and output as the sensitivity increases (from “Kean” to “Geen” distorted and output). .

  In this case, a shutter sound may be prepared for each set value of ISO sensitivity, but one standard shutter sound is prepared and distorted according to the set value and output. May be. Thereby, the amount of data to be recorded can be reduced.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure when the shutter sound is distorted and output in accordance with the ISO sensitivity setting value.

  First, the CPU 50 determines whether or not the shutter button 14 is half-pressed based on an input from the operation unit 52 (step S20).

  If it is determined that the shutter button 14 is half-pressed, preparation for imaging is performed (step S21).

  When the imaging preparation is completed, the CPU 50 acquires information on the set ISO sensitivity at the time of actual imaging (step S22).

  When the information of the ISO sensitivity at the time of actual imaging is acquired, the CPU 50 calculates the amount of shutter sound distortion corresponding to the acquired ISO sensitivity (step S23). That is, an amount for distorting the standard shutter sound (amount for adding a noise component) is calculated.

  Here, it is assumed that the shutter sound when the ISO sensitivity is ISO 100 is a standard shutter sound, and that the shutter sound is distorted as the ISO sensitivity increases. Therefore, as the ISO sensitivity increases, the distortion amount is set higher.

  When the amount of distortion is calculated, the CPU 50 reads the standard shutter sound audio data (the ISO sound 100 shutter sound audio data) from the audio database 112, processes the standard shutter sound audio data, Audio data of shutter sound output at the time of imaging is generated (step S24). That is, the sound data of the standard shutter sound is distorted by the calculated distortion amount, and the sound data of the shutter sound that is output during the main imaging is generated.

  When the sound data of the shutter sound that is output during the main imaging is generated in this way, the CPU 50 determines whether or not the half-press of the shutter button 14 is released based on the input from the operation unit 52 (step). S25). If it is determined that the half-press of the shutter button 14 is released, it is determined whether or not the shutter button 14 is fully pressed (step S26).

  If it is determined that the shutter button 14 has not been fully pressed, the CPU 50 returns to step S20, and again determines whether the shutter button 14 has been half-pressed based on the input from the operation unit 52.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the shutter button 14 has been fully pressed, the CPU 50 performs a main imaging process (step S27).

  Also, the sound data of the shutter sound generated simultaneously with the main imaging is reproduced and output from the speaker 16 in synchronization with the exposure of the CCD (step S28).

  The CPU 50 performs various signal processing on the image data obtained by imaging and records it in the external memory 102 (step S29).

  Thereafter, the CPU 50 determines whether or not the power is turned off based on the input from the operation unit 52 (step S30). If the power is not turned off, the process returns to step S20 and the above process is executed again. On the other hand, if it is determined that the power is turned off, the process is terminated.

  As described above, the shutter sound may be changed by distorting the standard shutter sound (shutter sound at ISO 100) according to the ISO sensitivity setting value.

  In this example, the shutter sound is distorted and changed according to the ISO sensitivity setting value, but the shutter sound is also distorted and changed according to the setting value for other imaging conditions. Also good. That is, the shutter sound may be distorted and changed in accordance with the exposure correction amount, aperture value, and shutter speed setting value.

  For example, when changing the shutter sound in accordance with the exposure correction amount, the shutter sound at ± 0 EV may be a standard shutter sound, and the shutter sound may be distorted and changed in accordance with the exposure correction amount.

  In the case of an aperture value, the shutter sound at F1.4 may be a standard shutter sound, and the shutter sound may be distorted and changed according to a set aperture value.

  In the case of the shutter speed, the shutter sound at 1/60 seconds may be a standard shutter sound, and the shutter sound may be distorted and changed according to the set shutter speed.

  A standard shutter sound is prepared for each imaging condition.

  In this example, the CPU 50 performs the processing of the shutter sound in a software manner. However, as shown in FIG. 12, an audio data processing unit 114 that performs the processing of the shutter sound is provided and processed by hardware. It may be. The audio data processing unit 114 shown in the figure processes the audio data of the standard shutter sound according to the control signal from the CPU 50, and generates the shutter sound that is output during the main imaging.

  In the above example, the standard shutter sound is distorted (with a noise component added) and the shutter sound is changed according to the set value of each imaging condition. By changing the pitch of the shutter sound, the shutter sound may be changed according to the set value of each imaging condition.

  In addition, when generating a shutter sound in which a standard shutter sound is distorted, first, a standard noise sound prepared in advance is distorted according to a setting value of an imaging condition, and the distorted standard noise sound is converted into a standard sound. The shutter sound may be generated by synthesizing with the shutter sound to be output at the time of actual imaging.

  In this example, only information on specific imaging conditions is reflected in the shutter sound, but other information may be added to output the shutter sound. For example, when the imaging apparatus 10 is provided with a function for removing noise from a captured image (so-called noise reduction function), information on the presence / absence of the setting is further added to output a shutter sound. You may do it.

  FIG. 13 is a table showing an example of shutter sound output when the shutter sound is output by adding information on the presence or absence of noise removal to the ISO sensitivity information.

  As shown in the table, in the case of no noise removal, the set ISO sensitivity is output as audio as it is. On the other hand, in the case of noise removal, the sound of “ant” is added after the sound of the set ISO sensitivity and output.

  For example, when the set ISO sensitivity is ISO 100 and noise removal is not performed, the shutter sound is output as “iso-hyac”. On the other hand, in the case of noise removal, the shutter sound is output as “Isolated”.

  Similarly, when the ISO sensitivity set is ISO 200 and noise removal is not performed, the shutter sound is output as “Isolation”, and when noise removal is performed, the shutter sound is output as “Isolation”. .

  In this way, in the case of noise removal, the sound of “ant” is added after the sound of the set ISO sensitivity and output.

  The same applies to the case where the standard shutter sound is distorted and output according to the set ISO sensitivity. In the case of noise removal, the sound of “ant” is added after the distorted shutter sound and output. .

  Note that the shutter sound itself may be changed depending on whether noise is removed or not.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 14, the shutter sound itself may be changed depending on whether or not noise removal is performed. In the example shown in the figure, the standard shutter sound without noise removal (shutter sound “Kean” when ISO 100 is used) and the standard shutter sound when noise is removed (shutter sound “Shkin” when ISO 100 is used). The standard shutter sound is distorted according to the ISO sensitivity setting value.

  In this way, by changing the shutter sound itself with and without noise removal, it is possible to intuitively grasp information with / without noise removal as sound in addition to information on ISO sensitivity. it can.

  Note that the noise removal processing may be automatically performed based on the imaging conditions (for example, executed according to ISO sensitivity), or the user may arbitrarily set the ON / OFF thereof. Good (for example, set on the menu screen). When it is performed automatically, the presence or absence of the execution can be recognized by voice at the time of imaging, so that it works particularly effectively.

  Since the image noise removal process itself is a known technique, a detailed description of the content of the process is omitted. This process may be performed by software, or a dedicated circuit may be provided and processed by hardware.

  In the present embodiment, the user selects a specific imaging condition, but it may be automatically switched according to the AE mode or the like. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the shutter sound may be changed according to the aperture value in the aperture priority AE mode and in accordance with the shutter speed in the shutter speed priority AE mode (in other AE modes, for example, The imaging condition selected by the user or the normal shutter sound.) This further improves usability.

  It is preferable that the user can arbitrarily set this setting. That is, it is preferable that the user can arbitrarily select and set a setting for automatically switching a specific imaging condition and a setting manually selected by the user.

  In the above embodiment, the shutter sound used for each imaging condition is prepared in advance. However, the user may arbitrarily set the shutter sound used for each imaging condition. In this case, a plurality of usable sound sources may be prepared in advance so that the user can arbitrarily set the shutter sound used for each imaging condition, or the user can select the shutter sound used for each imaging condition. You may be able to create it.

  Even when the standard shutter sound is changed and used, it is preferable that the user can arbitrarily select the standard shutter sound.

  In the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment, various settings including imaging conditions are performed on the menu screen. However, a dedicated operation button or the like may be provided and set.

<Second Embodiment>
In the imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment, information on specific imaging conditions is reflected in the shutter sound at the time of still image imaging, so that the imaging conditions at the time of actual imaging and the fact that the actual imaging has been performed are sounded. I was able to grasp.

  In the image pickup apparatus according to the second embodiment, when a moving image is picked up, a sound indicating the start of moving image pickup and the end of image pickup is output, so that it can be confirmed by sound that the moving image is picked up.

  Since the apparatus configuration itself is the same as that of the imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment, only the procedure of audio output processing during moving image imaging will be described here.

  As described above, the start of moving image capturing is instructed when the shutter button 14 is fully pressed, and when the shutter button 14 is fully pressed again after the shutter button 14 is fully pressed, the end of imaging is instructed.

  In the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment, when the start of imaging of the moving image is instructed, the sound of “action” is output from the speaker 16, and when the end of imaging is instructed, the sound of “cut” is output from the speaker 16. Is done. In addition, when the moving image capturing mode is set, “standby” sound is output. It is assumed that the voice data of these voices is stored in the voice database 112.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of audio output processing during moving image capturing.

  First, the CPU 50 determines whether or not the operation mode of the imaging apparatus is set to the moving image imaging mode based on the input of the operation unit 52 (step S40).

  When it is determined that the operation mode of the imaging apparatus is set to the moving image capturing mode, a sound indicating imaging preparation OK in the moving image capturing mode is output from the speaker 16 (step S41). That is, audio data corresponding to imaging preparation OK is read from the audio database 112 and output from the speaker 16 via the audio input / output circuit 110. In this case, “standby” sound is output from the speaker 16. The photographer recognizes that the preparation for imaging has been completed by listening to this “standby” sound.

  Thereafter, the CPU 50 determines whether or not the shutter button 14 is fully pressed based on an input from the operation unit 52 (step S42). If it is determined that the shutter button 14 has been fully pressed, it is determined that the start of imaging has been instructed, and a sound indicating the start of imaging is output from the speaker 16 (step S43). That is, audio data corresponding to the start of imaging is read from the audio database 112 and output from the speaker 16 via the audio input / output circuit 110. In this case, the sound of “action” is output from the speaker 16. The photographer recognizes that the moving image capturing has started by listening to the sound of this “action”.

  After outputting the “action” sound, the CPU 50 starts the moving image capturing process (step S44).

  After starting the moving image capturing process, the CPU 50 determines whether or not the shutter button 14 is fully pressed based on the input from the operation unit 52 (step S45). If it is determined that the shutter button 14 has been fully pressed, it is determined that the end of imaging has been instructed, and the imaging process is terminated (step S46).

  When the imaging process ends, the CPU 50 outputs a sound indicating the end of imaging from the speaker 16 (step S47). That is, audio data corresponding to the end of imaging is read from the audio database 112 and output from the speaker 16 via the audio input / output circuit 110. In this case, a “cut” sound is output from the speaker 16. The photographer recognizes that the moving image capturing has been completed by listening to the sound of “cut”.

  Thereafter, the CPU 50 determines whether the power is turned off based on the input from the operation unit 52 (step S48). If it is determined that the power is not turned off, the process returns to step S40. If it is determined that the power is turned off, the process is terminated.

  As described above, in the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment, the sound indicating the start of imaging (“action”) is output from the speaker 16 at the start of moving image capturing, and the sound indicating the end of imaging (“cut”) at the end of imaging. Is output, it is possible to intuitively grasp the start and end timing of imaging with sound, and imaging can be performed with peace of mind. In addition, this makes it possible to provide an imaging device that is easy to use for visually impaired people.

  In the above example, audio is output only at the start of imaging and at the end of imaging. However, audio indicating that imaging is being performed may be output during imaging. For example, a voice “Katakata” (rotation sound of a projector film) is output at a constant cycle.

  However, if such audio is output from the speaker 16 during imaging, the output audio is picked up by the microphone 40 and recorded in the moving image, so that audio indicating that imaging is being performed is output even during imaging. In this case, it is preferable to perform a process of removing the output sound component from the sound collected by the microphone 40. That is, since the component of the sound output from the speaker 40 is known, the component having the opposite phase to the sound is added to the sound collected by the microphone 40, or the sound component is collected by the microphone 40. It is preferable to remove the sound output from the speaker 40 by subtracting from the sound (so-called noise canceling).

  FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of an imaging apparatus having a noise canceling function.

  As shown in the figure, the imaging apparatus 10 includes a noise canceling processing unit 116 that performs noise canceling processing. The noise canceling processing unit 116 takes in audio data collected by the microphone 40 in accordance with a control signal from the CPU 50, adds a component having a phase opposite to that of the audio output from the speaker 16, and outputs the audio output from the speaker 40. Remove the components.

  At the time of moving image capturing, audio from which audio components output from the speaker 40 are removed is recorded.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the case of capturing a moving image while outputting sound indicating that an image is being captured.

  First, the CPU 50 determines whether or not the operation mode of the imaging device is set to the moving image imaging mode based on the input of the operation unit 52 (step S50).

  When it is determined that the operation mode of the imaging apparatus is set to the moving image capturing mode, a sound (“standby”) indicating imaging preparation OK in the moving image capturing mode is output from the speaker 16 (step S51).

  Thereafter, the CPU 50 determines whether or not the shutter button 14 is fully pressed based on the input from the operation unit 52 (step S52). If it is determined that the shutter button 14 has been fully pressed, it is determined that imaging start has been instructed, and a sound (“action”) indicating the start of imaging is output from the speaker 16 (step S53).

  After outputting the “action” sound, the CPU 50 starts moving image capturing processing (step S54).

  After starting the moving image capturing process, the CPU 50 outputs a sound indicating that the moving image is being captured from the speaker 16 (step S55). That is, audio data corresponding to the image being captured is read from the audio database 112 and output from the speaker 16 via the audio input / output circuit 110. In this case, “katakatakata” sound is output from the speaker 16 at regular intervals. The photographer recognizes that the moving image is being picked up by listening to the sound of “katakata”.

  On the other hand, the CPU 50 removes the sound component output from the speaker 16 from the sound collected by the microphone 40 (step S56). In other words, the sound collected by the microphone 40 is added to the noise canceling processing unit 116 to remove the sound component output from the speaker 16 (noise canceling). As a result, the sound recorded together with the video as a moving image is recorded with the sound from which the sound component output from the speaker 16 is removed.

  As described above, the CPU 50 captures a moving image while performing noise canceling processing. Based on the input from the operation unit 52, it is determined whether or not the shutter button 14 has been fully pressed (step S57).

  If it is determined that the shutter button 14 has not been fully pressed, the process returns to step S55, and audio output and imaging are continued.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the shutter button 14 has been fully pressed, it is determined that the end of imaging has been instructed, and the imaging process is terminated (step S58). Then, a sound indicating the end of imaging (“cut”) is output from the speaker 16 (step S59).

  Thereafter, the CPU 50 determines whether the power is turned off based on the input from the operation unit 52 (step S60). If it is determined that the power is not turned off, the process returns to step S40. If it is determined that the power is turned off, the process is terminated.

  As described above, in the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment, the sound (“katakata”) indicating that the imaging is being performed is output from the speaker 16 during the imaging as well as when the imaging of the moving image is started and when the imaging is completed. Thereby, it is possible to intuitively grasp that the image is being picked up with sound, and it is possible to pick up the image with peace of mind. In addition, this makes it possible to provide an imaging device that is easy to use for visually impaired people.

  In addition, since the audio recorded together with the video is recorded as the moving image, the sound from which the sound output from the speaker 16 is removed during imaging is recorded, so that unnecessary audio is not recorded in the captured moving image.

  In the above-described embodiment, it is configured so that a sound indicating that the image is being captured is always output during moving image capturing, but the user can arbitrarily turn on / off the output of this sound. Is preferred. Similarly, it is preferable that the user can arbitrarily turn on / off the sound indicating the start of imaging and the sound indicating the end of imaging. In this case, it is preferable that ON / OFF of each item can be set individually. That is, it is preferable that the user can arbitrarily set to output only the sound indicating the start of imaging or output only the sound indicating that imaging is being performed.

  Further, in the above embodiment, when the moving image capturing mode is set, a sound indicating “imaging preparation OK” (“standby”) is output, but this sound output can also be arbitrarily turned on / off. It is preferable to do so.

  Further, when the moving image capturing mode can be selected, the sound of the mode selected at the time of outputting the sound indicating the image capturing preparation OK may be output. For example, when an image size or a frame rate can be selected as the moving image capturing mode, information on the selected image size or frame rate may be read out as a sound indicating the image capturing preparation OK.

  For example, when VGA, QVGA, and HiVision can be selected as the image size, “Buzzy A Mode Standby”, “Cube Easy A Mode Standby”, and “High Vision Mode Standby” are output as audio indicating the imaging preparation OK, respectively. Configure as follows.

  Further, when 15 fps and 30 fps can be selected as the frame rate, “frame rate jugo mode standby” and “frame rate sanju mode standby” are output as audio indicating the imaging preparation OK, respectively.

  Note that information on both the image size and the frame rate may be output as audio.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the audio | voice to output is decided beforehand, it is preferable that a user can select the audio | voice to output arbitrarily. For example, as shown in the table of FIG. 19, two types of voices to be output are prepared so that the user can select one of them. Alternatively, the user can arbitrarily select a sound to be used for each item. In this case, the setting process and the selection process are performed on a menu screen, for example.

  Note that the imaging apparatus of the first embodiment can also have the function of the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment, that is, the function of outputting sound when capturing a moving image.

<Third Embodiment>
In the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment, when the setting of a specific imaging condition is switched, sound corresponding to the setting of the imaging condition is output from the speaker. Since the apparatus configuration itself is the same as that of the imaging apparatus of the first embodiment, only the procedure of the audio output process will be described here.

  For example, assume that the photographer switches the ISO sensitivity setting from ISO100 to ISO200. In this case, the sound “Isonik” is output from the speaker 16.

  Further, for example, assume that the photographer performs exposure correction of + 1EV. In this case, a sound “Plus Eevee” is output from the speaker 16.

  As described above, in the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment, when the setting of a specific imaging condition is switched, sound corresponding to the switched setting value of the imaging condition is output from the speaker 16.

  FIG. 20 is a table showing an example of switching sound output when switching sound is output in response to switching of ISO sensitivity.

  As shown in the table, for example, when the ISO sensitivity is switched to ISO 100, a sound of “iso-hyaku” is output from the speaker 16 as a switching sound. Similarly, when the ISO sensitivity is switched to ISO 200, a sound “Iso-hyaku” is output from the speaker 16 when it is switched to ISO 400. That is, the newly set ISO sensitivity is output as a sound as it is (however, the prefix “iso” may be omitted).

  FIG. 21 is a table showing an example of switching sound output when switching sound is output in response to switching of white balance (light source type) setting.

  As shown in the table, for example, when the white balance setting is switched to a light bulb (tungsten light), a sound of “tungsten” is output from the speaker 16 as a switching sound. Similarly, when the white balance setting is switched to a fluorescent lamp, a sound “Keikouto” is output from the speaker 16, and when the white balance setting is switched to a clear sky, a sound “Hare” is output. That is, the newly set white balance name is output as audio.

  FIG. 22 is a table showing an example of switching sound output when switching sound is output in accordance with exposure correction.

  As shown in the table, for example, when the exposure correction amount is switched to ± 0, a voice of “Zero Eevee” is output from the speaker 16 as a switching sound. Similarly, when the exposure correction amount is switched to +1, a sound “PLUS EVERY” is output from the speaker 16 and when it is switched to −1, a sound “MINUS EVERY” is output. In other words, the newly set exposure correction amount is output as a sound as it is (however, the suffix “Eevee” may be omitted).

  FIG. 23 is a table showing an output example of the switching sound when the switching sound is output in accordance with the switching of the aperture value.

  As shown in the table, for example, when the aperture value (f value) is switched to f1.4, a sound “Effect Tenyon” is output from the speaker 16 as a switching sound. Similarly, when the aperture value is switched to f2, a sound “Effy” is output from the speaker 16 and when it is switched to f4, the sound “Efyon” is output. That is, the newly set aperture value is output as audio as it is (however, the prefix “F” may be omitted).

  FIG. 24 is a table showing an example of switching sound output when switching sound is output in response to switching of the shutter speed.

  As shown in the table, for example, when the shutter speed is switched to ½ second, a sound “Nibun no Ichibyo” is output from the speaker 16 as a switching sound. Similarly, when the shutter speed is switched to 1 second, a sound “Ibyo” is output from the speaker 16 and when the shutter imaging is switched to “Bulb”, a sound “Bulb” is output. In other words, the newly set shutter speed is output as sound as it is (however, the “sound” of the suffix may be omitted).

  FIG. 25 is a table showing an example of switching sound output when switching sound is output in response to switching of the AE mode.

  As shown in the table, for example, when the AE mode is switched to the program AE, a sound “program” is output from the speaker 16 as a switching sound. Similarly, when the AE mode is switched to AUTO, a sound “Auto” is output from the speaker 16 and when the aperture priority AE (AV) is switched, the sound “Signal Yusen” is output. That is, the name of the newly set AE mode is output as is as it is.

  As described above, in the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment, when the setting of a specific imaging condition is switched, sound corresponding to the switched imaging condition setting value is output from the speaker 16 as a switching sound.

  In the audio database 112, the sound data of the switching sound set for each imaging condition is recorded in association with the setting value of each imaging condition.

  When the imaging condition is switched, the CPU 50 accesses the audio database 112 and acquires the audio data of the switching sound corresponding to the new setting value of the switched imaging condition. The acquired audio data is output from the speaker 16 via the audio input / output circuit 110.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure when a switching sound is output in accordance with switching of imaging conditions.

  First, the CPU 50 determines whether or not a specific imaging condition (imaging condition for generating a switching sound) has been switched based on an input from the operation unit 52 (step S70).

  If it is determined that the specific imaging condition has been switched, the CPU 50 acquires information on a new setting value of the switched imaging condition (step S71). Then, the voice database 112 is accessed, the voice data of the switching sound corresponding to the acquired new setting value of the imaging condition is searched, and the searched voice data is acquired (step S72). For example, when the ISO sensitivity is switched from ISO 100 to ISO 200, the voice data of the switching sound of the newly switched ISO 200 is searched from the voice database 112 and acquired (in this case, the voice data of the voice “Iso Niikaku” is obtained. Obtained). Also, for example, when the aperture is switched from f1.4 to f2, the voice data of the newly switched f2 switching sound is searched from the voice database 112 and acquired (in this case, the voice of “Efni” is recorded). Audio data is acquired.)

  When the sound data of the switching sound is acquired in this way, the CPU 50 reproduces the acquired sound data. That is, the output is made from the speaker 16 via the audio input / output circuit 110 (step S73).

  The photographer can intuitively grasp the fact that the imaging condition has been switched by listening to the sound output from the speaker 16.

  Thereafter, the CPU 50 determines whether or not the power is turned off based on the input from the operation unit 52 (step S74). If the power is not turned off, the process returns to step S70 and the above process is executed again. On the other hand, if it is determined that the power is turned off, the process is terminated.

  As described above, in the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment, when a specific imaging condition is switched, sound corresponding to the new setting value of the switched imaging condition is output from the speaker 16. As a result, it can be confirmed that the setting has been switched correctly, and imaging can be performed efficiently with confidence. In addition, by outputting various kinds of information with sound in this way, it is possible to provide an imaging device that is easy to use even for visually impaired people.

  Note that it is preferable that the user can arbitrarily set the imaging sound for which the switching sound is output. That is, it is preferable that the switching sound be output only for the imaging condition selected by the user, instead of outputting the switching sound for all the imaging conditions. This selection operation is performed on a menu screen, for example.

  Further, this switching may be automatically performed according to the imaging mode. That is, for example, when the aperture priority AE mode is selected as the AE mode, a switching sound corresponding to the switched aperture value is output only when the aperture value is switched. Similarly, when the shutter speed priority AE mode is selected as the AE mode, the switching sound corresponding to the switched shutter speed is output only when the shutter speed is switched. Further, when the manual mode is set as the AE mode, the switching sound corresponding to the switched aperture value and shutter speed is output only when the aperture value and the shutter speed are switched.

  Further, in the above example, the contents of the setting values of each imaging condition are read out as they are as the switching sound, but the type of the switching sound is not limited to this. That is, the type of switching sound is not limited as long as each imaging condition can be distinguished and the set value can be distinguished. For example, as described in the first embodiment, the output may be distorted (add a noise component) according to the set value with the same sound.

  Note that the imaging apparatus of the first and second embodiments can be provided with a function of the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment, that is, a function of outputting a switching sound in response to switching of specific imaging conditions.

External view showing external configuration of imaging device Block diagram showing internal configuration of imaging device Table showing output example of shutter sound when shutter sound is changed according to ISO sensitivity at the time of actual imaging Table showing an example of shutter sound output when the shutter sound is changed according to the white balance (light source type) setting during actual imaging Table showing an example of shutter sound output when the shutter sound is changed according to the aperture value set during the main imaging Table showing an example of shutter sound output when the shutter sound is changed according to the aperture value set during the main imaging Table showing an example of shutter sound output when the shutter sound is changed according to the shutter speed set at the time of actual imaging Table showing an example of shutter sound output when the shutter sound is changed according to the AE mode set at the time of actual imaging The flowchart which shows the procedure of the output process of the shutter sound according to imaging conditions Table showing output example of shutter sound when shutter sound is changed according to ISO sensitivity at the time of actual imaging The flowchart which shows the procedure of the process in the case of outputting a shutter sound distorted according to the setting value of ISO sensitivity. Block diagram showing the internal configuration of an imaging device having a voice processing function Table showing an example of shutter sound output in the case of outputting shutter sound by adding information on presence / absence of noise removal to ISO sensitivity information Table showing an example of shutter sound output in the case of outputting shutter sound by adding information on presence / absence of noise removal to ISO sensitivity information Table showing output example of shutter sound when switching shutter sound according to AE mode Flow chart showing the procedure of audio output processing during moving image capturing Block diagram showing the internal configuration of an imaging device with a noise canceling function A flowchart showing a processing procedure when a moving image is captured while outputting sound indicating that the image is being captured Table showing an example of audio output in the video capture mode Table showing output example of switching sound when switching sound is output according to ISO sensitivity switching Table showing an example of switching sound output when switching sound is output in response to switching of white balance (light source type) settings Table showing output example of switching sound when switching sound is output according to exposure compensation Table showing an example of switching sound output when switching sound is output in response to aperture value switching Example of switching sound output when switching sound is output in response to shutter speed switching Table showing an example of switching sound output when switching sound is output in response to switching of the AE mode The flowchart which shows the procedure of the process in the case of outputting a switching sound according to switching of imaging conditions

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Imaging device, 12 ... Power switch, 14 ... Shutter button, 16 ... Speaker, 18 ... Operation mode switching switch, 20 ... Zoom switch, 22 ... Monitor, 24 ... Viewfinder eyepiece, 26 ... Menu button, 28 ... Display Buttons 30... Multifunction switch 32. Delete button 34. Flash 36. Viewfinder window 38 Lens 40. Microphone 50. Central processing unit (CPU) 52 Bus 54 Operation unit 56 Optical system 58 ... Image sensor 60 ... CDS analog encoder 62 ... White balance amplifier 64 ... Gamma correction processing unit 66 ... Dot sequential circuit 68 ... A / D converter 70 ... Zoom motor 72 ... Iris Motor 74 ... AF motor 76 ... Zoom motor driver 78 ... Iris motor driver 80 ... AF motor 82 ... Built-in clock, 84 ... Electronic volume (EVR), 86 ... Memory controller, 88 ... Main memory, 90 ... Compression / decompression processing unit, 92 ... MPEG encoder / decoder, 94 ... YC signal creation unit, 96 ... Color Conversion unit, 98 ... NTSC encoder, 100 ... external memory interface, 102 ... external memory, 104 ... communication interface, 108 ... monitor driver, 110 ... audio input / output circuit, 112 ... audio database, 114 ... audio data processing unit, 116: Noise canceling processing unit

Claims (16)

In an imaging apparatus that captures a subject image with an imaging unit in accordance with an imaging instruction and records the obtained image in a storage unit,
Audio output means for outputting audio;
Audio data storage means in which audio data determined for each set value for a specific imaging condition is stored in association with the corresponding set value;
Setting switching detection means for detecting switching of setting values of the specific imaging condition;
When switching of the setting value of the specific imaging condition is detected by the setting switching detection unit, audio data corresponding to the switched setting value is read from the audio data storage unit, and the audio represented by the audio data is converted to the audio Audio output control means for outputting from the output means;
An imaging apparatus comprising:   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the specific imaging condition is at least one of ISO sensitivity, white balance, exposure correction, aperture, or shutter speed. In an imaging apparatus that captures a subject image with an imaging unit in accordance with an imaging instruction and records the obtained image in a storage unit,
Audio output means for outputting audio;
Audio data storage means in which audio data determined for each set value for a specific imaging condition is stored in association with the corresponding set value;
Information on the setting value of the specific imaging condition at the time of actual imaging is acquired, audio data corresponding to the acquired setting value is read from the audio data storage unit, and the audio represented by the audio data is used as the shutter sound to perform the imaging Audio output control means for outputting from the audio output means in synchronization with imaging by the means;
An imaging apparatus comprising: In an imaging apparatus that captures a subject image with an imaging unit in accordance with an imaging instruction and records the obtained image in a storage unit,
Audio output means for outputting audio;
Audio data storage means storing audio data of a standard shutter sound;
Shutter that obtains information on setting values of specific imaging conditions at the time of actual imaging, processes audio data of the standard shutter sound according to the acquired setting values, and generates audio data of shutter sound output at the time of actual imaging Sound generation means;
A sound output control means for outputting the sound represented by the sound data generated by the shutter sound generation means as a shutter sound and outputting the sound from the sound output means in synchronization with the image pickup by the image pickup means;
An imaging apparatus comprising:   The shutter sound generating means generates the shutter sound output at the time of actual imaging by distorting the sound data of the standard shutter sound according to the set value of the specific imaging condition at the time of actual imaging. The imaging device according to claim 4.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, 4 or 5, wherein the specific imaging condition is at least one of ISO sensitivity, white balance, exposure correction, aperture, or shutter speed. In an imaging device that starts capturing a moving image in response to an imaging start instruction, ends capturing a moving image in response to an imaging end instruction, and records the obtained moving image data in a storage unit.
Audio output means for outputting audio;
Audio data storage means for storing audio data indicating the start of imaging of a video and audio data indicating the end of imaging of a video;
In response to the imaging start instruction, audio data indicating the start of imaging of the moving image is read from the audio data storage unit, and the audio represented by the audio data is output from the audio output unit, and in response to the imaging end instruction, Audio output control means for reading audio data indicating the end of imaging of the moving image from the audio data storage means, and outputting audio represented by the audio data from the audio output means;
An imaging apparatus comprising: The audio data storage means further stores audio data indicating that a moving image is being captured,
The sound output control means reads sound data indicating that the moving image is being picked up from the sound data storage means while the moving image is being picked up, and outputs the sound represented by the sound data from the sound output means. Item 8. The imaging device according to Item 7.   9. The audio data correction means for extracting audio data from moving image data obtained by imaging and removing audio data components indicating that the imaging is in progress from the audio data. Imaging device. In the setting switching method of the imaging device in which the setting of specific imaging conditions can be switched,
Detecting a change in setting of the specific imaging condition;
Reading out audio data corresponding to the switched setting value from the audio database in which the audio data determined for each setting value with respect to the specific imaging condition is recorded in association with the corresponding setting value;
Outputting the voice represented by the read voice data from the voice output means;
A method for switching settings of an imaging apparatus, comprising: In an imaging method of an imaging apparatus that captures a subject image with an imaging unit according to an imaging instruction and records the obtained image in a storage unit,
Acquiring information of setting values of specific imaging conditions at the time of actual imaging;
Reading audio data corresponding to the acquired setting value from the audio database in which the audio data defined for each setting value with respect to the specific imaging condition is recorded in association with the corresponding setting value;
A step of outputting the sound represented by the read sound data as a shutter sound and outputting the sound from the sound output means in synchronization with the image pickup by the image pickup means;
An image pickup method for an image pickup apparatus comprising: In an imaging method of an imaging apparatus that captures a subject image with an imaging unit according to an imaging instruction and records the obtained image in a storage unit,
Acquiring information of setting values of specific imaging conditions at the time of actual imaging;
Processing audio data of standard shutter sound according to the acquired setting value, and generating audio data of shutter sound to be output at the time of actual imaging;
A step of outputting the sound represented by the generated sound data as a shutter sound and outputting it from the sound output means in synchronization with the image pickup by the image pickup means;
An imaging method for an imaging apparatus, comprising:   The sound data of the shutter sound output at the time of the main imaging is generated by distorting the audio data of the standard shutter sound according to a set value of the specific imaging condition at the time of the main imaging. The imaging method of the imaging device of 12. In the imaging method of the imaging apparatus that starts capturing a moving image in response to an imaging start instruction, ends capturing a moving image in response to an imaging end instruction, and records the obtained moving image data in a storage unit.
In response to the imaging start instruction, outputting a sound indicating the start of imaging of the moving image from the audio output means;
In response to the imaging end instruction, outputting audio indicating the end of imaging of the moving image from the audio output means;
An image pickup method for an image pickup apparatus comprising:   The imaging method of the imaging apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising a step of outputting a sound indicating that a moving image is being captured from the audio output unit during the capturing of the moving image. Extracting audio data from video data obtained by imaging;
Removing a voice component indicating that the imaging is in progress from the extracted voice data;
Recording moving image data from which audio components indicating that the imaging is being performed are removed from audio data;
The imaging method of the imaging device according to claim 15, comprising:

Images