JP2009130539A - Image pickup apparatus and display controlling method therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image pickup apparatus which enables a user to easily understand the method of releasing a video light mode. <P>SOLUTION: A control microcomputer 15 discriminates whether the video light mode is ON by a video light mode detection circuit 16 (S1). When it is detected that the video light mode is ON, the control microcomputer 15 switches an LCD panel 12 to solid white display (S2). In the video light mode wherein the LCD panel 12 is switched to the solid white display, the control microcomputer 15 discriminates whether the closed state of an opening/closing detection switch 14 is detected (S3). When the closed state of the opening/closing detection switch 14 is detected, the control microcomputer 15 releases the video light mode and ends the solid white display of the LCD panel 12 (S4). When the opening/closing detection switch 14 is in an open state, the control microcomputer 15 holds the solid white display of the LCD panel 12. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus that images a subject and a display control method thereof.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in various cameras that are imaging devices, a built-in light, an external light that is an external light provided detachably with respect to a camera body, or the like is generally used as an illumination light source for a subject. In addition, it is known that the liquid crystal panel is used as a video light by making the liquid crystal panel completely white and directing the light toward the subject (see Patent Document 1).

In addition, a video camera has been proposed in which a video light mode ON signal is input from a video light mode detection circuit to a control microcomputer, whereby the LCD panel is switched to all white display and used as a video light.
JP-A-10-126655

  However, in the conventional imaging apparatus, when the video light mode detection circuit detects that the video light mode is ON, the LCD panel is displayed in all white, so that the method for canceling the video light mode is difficult to understand. In particular, when switching to the video light mode due to an erroneous operation, it could be mistaken for a failure.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an imaging apparatus and a display control method thereof that allow a user to easily understand a video light mode canceling method.

  In order to achieve the above object, an imaging apparatus according to the present invention is an imaging apparatus for imaging a subject, wherein display means for displaying an image or all white of the captured subject, and the display means as a video light. Selection means for selecting a video light mode to use, and when the video light mode is selected, if a specific situation occurs, the video light mode is canceled and all white display by the display means is terminated. The display control means is provided.

  The imaging device of the present invention is an imaging device for imaging a subject, wherein display means for displaying an image or all white display of the captured subject, opening / closing detection means for detecting an open / closed state of the display means, Selection means for selecting a video light mode for using the display means as a video light, and when the video light mode is selected, the open / close detection means detects that the display means is in an open state A display control means for switching the display means to all white display, and on the other hand, canceling the video light mode and ending the all white display by the display means when it is detected that the display means is closed. It is provided with.

  An imaging apparatus according to the present invention is an imaging apparatus that captures an image of a subject, the display means for performing video display or all-white display of the captured subject, and detecting that a key operation has been performed on the imaging device. An operation detecting means for measuring, a time measuring means for measuring time since it was detected that the key operation was last performed, and a selecting means for selecting a video light mode for using the display means as a video light. When the video light mode is selected, the display means is switched to all white display. On the other hand, when the time counted by the time measuring means has passed a predetermined time, the video light mode is canceled and the display is performed. And display control means for ending the all white display by the means.

  An imaging apparatus according to the present invention is an imaging apparatus that captures an image of a subject, the display means for displaying an image of the captured subject or a white display, and the image capturing device that is detachably provided on the imaging device. A recording medium on which the recording medium is recorded, an extraction detecting means for detecting that an extraction operation for taking out the recording medium to the outside has been performed, and a selection for selecting a video light mode for using the display means as a video light And when the video light mode is selected, the display means is switched to all white display, while if it is detected that the take-out operation has been performed, the video light mode is canceled and the display is performed. And display control means for ending the all white display by the means.

  An imaging apparatus according to the present invention is an imaging apparatus that captures an image of a subject, and is provided with display means for displaying an image of the imaged subject or an all-white display; and the imaging device records the captured image. A recording medium, a remaining capacity detecting means for detecting a remaining capacity of the recording medium, a selecting means for selecting a video light mode for using the display means as a video light, and the video light mode is selected. When the display means switches to all white display, and when the remaining capacity of the recording medium falls below a threshold by the remaining capacity detection means, the video light mode is canceled and the display means displays all white. And display control means for ending.

  An image pickup apparatus according to the present invention is an image pickup apparatus for picking up an image of a subject, and includes a display means for displaying an image of the picked-up object or an all white display, and a video light mode for using the display means as a video light. Selection means for selecting, display control means for switching the display means to all white display when the video light mode is selected, and contents indicating a method for canceling the video light mode for the switched all white display. Display control for canceling the video light mode and ending the all-white display by the display means when a predetermined operation is performed according to the content indicating the superimposing means for superimposing and the method for canceling the superimposed video light mode Means.

  The display control method for an image pickup apparatus according to the present invention is a display control method for an image pickup apparatus for picking up an image of a subject, wherein the display unit of the image pickup device performs video display or all white display of the imaged subject, A selection step in which the selection unit of the imaging device selects a video light mode for using the display unit as a video light; and a display control unit of the imaging device has a specific mode when the video light mode is selected. A display control step of canceling the video light mode and ending the all-white display by the display means when a situation occurs.

  The display control method for an image pickup apparatus according to the present invention is a display control method for an image pickup apparatus for picking up an image of a subject, wherein the display unit of the image pickup device performs video display or all white display of the imaged subject, An open / close detection step in which the open / close detection means of the imaging device detects the open / closed state of the display means; a selection step in which the selection means of the imaging device selects a video light mode for using the display means as a video light; When the display control means of the imaging device detects that the display means is in the open state in the open / close detection step when the video light mode is selected, the display means is switched to all white display, On the other hand, if it is detected that the display means is in the closed state, the video light mode is canceled and all white display by the display means is terminated. And having a display control step.

  The display control method for an image pickup apparatus according to the present invention is a display control method for an image pickup apparatus for picking up an image of a subject, wherein the display unit of the image pickup device performs video display or all white display of the imaged subject, An operation detection step in which the operation detection unit of the imaging apparatus detects that a key operation has been performed on the imaging apparatus, and a timing unit of the imaging apparatus detects that the key operation has been performed last. A time measuring step for measuring time since being performed, a selecting step for selecting a video light mode in which the selecting means of the imaging apparatus uses the display means as a video light, and a display control means of the imaging apparatus, When the video light mode is selected, the display means is switched to all white display, while when the time counted in the timing step has passed a predetermined time, By releasing the serial video light mode; and a display control step of terminating the all white display by the display means.

  The display control method for an image pickup apparatus according to the present invention is a display control method for an image pickup apparatus for picking up an image of a subject, wherein the display unit of the image pickup device performs video display or all white display of the imaged subject, An extraction detection step for detecting that an extraction operation for taking out a recording medium in which the extraction detection means of the imaging apparatus is detachably provided in the imaging apparatus and on which the captured video is recorded is performed; A selection step in which the selection unit of the imaging apparatus selects a video light mode for using the display unit as a video light; and the display control unit of the imaging apparatus has the video light mode selected when the video light mode is selected. When the display means is switched to all white display, while it is detected that the take-out operation has been performed, the video light mode is canceled and the display operation is performed. And having a display control step of terminating the all white display by.

  The display control method for an image pickup apparatus according to the present invention is a display control method for an image pickup apparatus for picking up an image of a subject, wherein the display unit of the image pickup device performs video display or all white display of the imaged subject, A remaining capacity detection unit of the imaging apparatus is provided in the imaging apparatus, and a remaining capacity detection step of detecting a remaining capacity of a recording medium on which the captured video is recorded; and the selection unit of the imaging apparatus includes the display A selection step of selecting a video light mode for using the means as a video light, and the display control means of the imaging device switches the display means to all white display when the video light mode is selected, When the remaining capacity of the recording medium becomes equal to or less than a threshold value in the remaining capacity detecting step, the video light mode is canceled and the display device displays all white. And having a display control step of causing.

  The display control method for an image pickup apparatus according to the present invention is a display control method for an image pickup apparatus for picking up an image of a subject, wherein the display unit of the image pickup device performs video display or all white display of the imaged subject, A selection step in which the selection unit of the imaging apparatus selects a video light mode for using the display unit as a video light; and the display control unit of the imaging apparatus displays the display when the video light mode is selected. A display control step for switching the means to all white display; and a superimposition step for superimposing the content indicating the release method of the video light mode on the switched all white display by the superimposing means of the imaging apparatus. .

  The display control method for an image pickup apparatus according to the present invention is a display control method for an image pickup apparatus for picking up an image of a subject, wherein the display unit of the image pickup device performs video display or all white display of the imaged subject, A selection step in which the selection unit of the imaging apparatus selects a video light mode for using the display unit as a video light; and the display control unit of the imaging apparatus displays the display when the video light mode is selected. A display control step for switching the display to all white display, and a superimposition step for superimposing the content indicating the release method of the video light mode on the switched all white display by the superimposing unit of the imaging apparatus, When a predetermined operation is performed in accordance with a content indicating a method for canceling the superimposed video light mode, the video light mode is To release the de characterized in that to terminate the all white display by the display means.

  An imaging apparatus according to the present invention is an imaging apparatus that captures an image of a subject, a display unit that performs video display or all-white display of the captured subject, a REC review playback unit that plays back the captured video, A selection means for selecting a video light mode for using the display means as a video light; and when the video light mode is selected, the display means is switched to an all-white display, while a recording review is performed by the recording review playback means. When the review is started, the video light mode is canceled and the all white display by the display unit is ended. After that, when the video playback by the REC review playback unit is ended, the video light mode is returned to the video unit. And display control means for resuming all white display by the display means.

  The display control method for an image pickup apparatus according to the present invention is a display control method for an image pickup apparatus for picking up an image of a subject, wherein the display unit of the image pickup device performs video display or all white display of the imaged subject, A REC review playback step in which the REC review playback means of the imaging apparatus plays back the captured video; and a selection step in which the selection means of the imaging device selects a video light mode for using the display means as a video light; When the video light mode is selected, the display control means of the imaging device switches the display means to all white display, while when the REC review is started by the REC review playback means, the video light Cancel the mode to end the all white display by the display means, and then the REC review playback means If the video playback with is finished, and having a display control step of resuming the all white display by the display means and returns to the video light mode.

  According to the imaging device of the first aspect of the present invention, when the display unit performs the all white display in the video light mode, if a specific situation occurs, the video light mode is canceled and the all white display is terminated. To do. Thereby, the user can easily understand how to cancel the video light mode. Therefore, convenience for the user is improved.

  According to the imaging device of the second aspect, when the display unit is performing the all white display in the video light mode, the video light mode is canceled and the all white display is performed only by closing the display unit. finish. Thus, the user can easily understand the method for canceling the video light mode, which can be performed with a simple operation. In this way, a convenient method for canceling the video light mode can be provided.

  In addition, according to the imaging device of the third aspect, the video light mode is canceled only when the forward rotation storage state in which all white display is unnecessary is performed. Easy to understand.

  According to the imaging device of the fourth aspect, no key operation is performed after transition to the video light mode, the video light mode is canceled after a certain period of time, and the all white display is terminated. Thereby, when shifting to the video light mode due to an erroneous operation, it is possible to reduce a user's misunderstanding of a failure.

  Further, according to the imaging device of the fifth aspect, when the display means is displaying all white in the video light mode, the video light mode is canceled by the extraction operation for taking out the recording medium to the outside, and the all white is displayed. The display ends. Thereby, when exchanging the recording medium, it is not necessary to cancel the video light mode, and the convenience for the user is improved.

  According to the image pickup apparatus of claim 6, when the display means is performing the all white display in the video light mode, if the remaining capacity of the recording medium is exhausted, the video light mode is canceled and the all white display is terminated. To do. Thereby, the termination of the recording medium can be easily understood together with the release of the video light mode, and the convenience for the user is improved.

  Further, according to the image pickup apparatus of the seventh aspect, when the display unit performs the all white display in the video light mode, the content indicating the method for canceling the video light mode is superimposed on the all white display. It is easy to understand how to cancel the video light mode even in a difficult situation.

  According to the imaging device of the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to easily switch the display by the display means in which all white display is performed in the video light mode to the reproduction of the photographed video, and the confirmation of the photographed video can be performed. It becomes easy.

  Embodiments of an imaging apparatus and display control method thereof according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The imaging device of this embodiment is applied to a video camera.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the video camera according to the first embodiment. The video camera has a lens 4 at the front of the video camera body 1, a color viewfinder (CVF) 6 at the rear, and a liquid crystal monitor 8 at the side. An LCD panel 12 is disposed on the front surface of the liquid crystal monitor 8.

  The video camera main body 1 is a device main body that incorporates an imaging unit including a lens 4 and a CCD (not shown) and that can record and reproduce video / audio signals. In the present embodiment, a video camera is used as the imaging device. However, any video camera can be used as long as it can record and reproduce video signals, and a digital still camera or the like may be used.

  The liquid crystal monitor 8 is held in the video camera main body 1 via the hinge portion 7, and the LCD panel 12 can display a reproduced image and a captured image. An LCD backlight 13 is provided on the back of the LCD panel 12. The hinge 7 holds the liquid crystal monitor 8 with respect to the video camera main body 1 so that the liquid crystal monitor 8 can be opened and closed in the direction of arrow A in the figure, and can be rotated in the direction of arrow B in the figure. In general, when the LCD panel 12 becomes all white (in a state where the transmittance is maximum), the amount of light emitted from the LCD panel 12 is maximized, which is the same as when the video light is irradiated. By actively utilizing this phenomenon, the LCD panel 12 can function as a video light.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of a control circuit of a part mainly related to control of the LCD panel 12. This control circuit is provided inside the video camera body 1. The control circuit includes an LCD drive circuit 11 that drives the LCD panel 12, a CVF drive circuit 19 that drives the CVF panel 20 disposed in the color viewfinder 6, and a control microcomputer 15 that controls the video camera. The control circuit also includes an open / close detection switch 14 that detects opening / closing (open / closed state) of the LCD panel 12 in the direction of arrow A, and an inversion detection switch 17 that detects rotation of the LCD panel 12 in the direction of arrow B. The reversal detection switch 17 detects the direction of whether the LCD panel 12 is facing the subject or the photographer. The control circuit also includes a video light mode detection circuit 16 that detects ON / OFF of the video light mode, and a power supply circuit 18 that supplies power to the LCD backlight 13. The control circuit includes an image sensor, a CDS circuit, an A / D converter, and the like (not shown), and performs an image processing unit 21 that outputs captured image data and performs necessary signal processing on the captured image data. It has a signal processing circuit 22 and an image memory 23 for storing signal processed image data.

  The control microcomputer 15 controls ON / OFF of video display on the LCD panel 12 and the CVF panel 20 according to the detection result of opening / closing / reversing of the LCD panel 12. The video light mode detection circuit 16 detects ON / OFF of the video light mode set or selected by, for example, a predetermined menu operation or key operation by the photographer. When the ON state of the video light mode is detected, the LCD panel 12 can be displayed in all white. The LCD drive circuit 11 and the CVF drive circuit 19 drive them so that separately input video signals are displayed on the LCD panel 12 and the CVF panel 20 in accordance with control signals from the control microcomputer 15, respectively.

  An operation of the video camera which is the imaging apparatus having the above configuration will be described. First, the video camera obtains a video signal by converting an optical signal of a subject incident through the lens 4 into an electrical signal by a CCD (not shown) built in the video camera body 1. This video signal is displayed on the LCD panel 12 when various signal processes are performed by the signal processing circuit 22. At this time, by pressing a recording button, a video signal and an audio signal are recorded on a recording medium such as a video tape loaded therein.

  As described above, the video camera main body 1 is provided with the LCD panel 12 for displaying the image being photographed and the reproduced image. The LCD panel 12 can be opened and closed in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 1 and can be rotated in the direction of arrow B in FIG. That is, the LCD panel 12 is freely rotatable between a normal photographing state facing the photographer side and a facing photographing state facing the subject side, that is, the same direction as the lens 4.

  When the LCD panel 12 is not used as a video light, a video signal is displayed in both a normal shooting state and a face-to-face shooting state. Here, the state in FIG. 1 is referred to as a normal rotation state, and the state in which the LCD panel 12 is closed from the normal rotation state in the direction of arrow A in FIG. Further, the state in which the LCD panel 12 is rotated toward the subject side in the direction of arrow B from the state of FIG. 1 (forward rotation state) is the facing state (reversed state), and the LCD panel 12 is closed from this facing state in the direction of arrow A in FIG. This state is referred to as a reverse storage state.

  Next, an operation when the LCD panel 12 is used as a video light will be described. First, when the power of the video camera body 1 is turned on, when the video camera is in the shooting mode, a video signal incident from the lens 4 and subjected to photoelectric conversion is displayed on the LCD panel 12.

  When the video light mode ON signal from the video light mode detection circuit 16 is input to the control microcomputer 15, the LCD panel 12 is switched to all white for the LCD drive circuit 11 from the control microcomputer 15 and used as a video light. A control signal is sent as follows.

  In response to a control signal from the control microcomputer 15, the LCD drive circuit 11 stops outputting the video signal to the LCD panel 12, and instead, sends a signal that causes the LCD panel 12 to display all white. When the LCD panel 12 faces the subject side, the LCD panel 12 can be used as a video light. In this manner, the light quantity from the LCD panel 12 is maximized to irradiate the subject, and the video light function can be achieved. Further, if necessary, the illuminance of the LCD backlight 13 can be increased in order to increase the amount of light of the LCD panel 12 when it is all white. That is, when the video light mode detection circuit 16 detects ON, a control signal is input from the control microcomputer 15 to the power supply circuit 18, and the illuminance of the LCD backlight 13 is increased by increasing the voltage of the power supply circuit 18. I can do it. As the LCD backlight 13, various types such as a direct fluorescent tube and a fluorescent tube with a light guide plate can be used.

  Next, a method for canceling the video light mode will be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the video camera. This operation program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the control microcomputer 15 and is executed by the CPU in the control microcomputer 15.

  First, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether the video light mode is detected by the video light mode detection circuit 16 (step S1). When it is detected that the video light mode is OFF, the control microcomputer 15 ends this processing as it is.

  On the other hand, when it is detected that the video light mode is ON, the control microcomputer 15 switches the LCD panel 12 to all white display (step S2). In the video light mode in which the LCD panel 12 is switched to all white display, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether or not the closed state of the open / close detection switch 14 is detected (step S3). Here, when the closed state of the open / close detection switch 14 is detected, it is determined that a specific situation has occurred.

  When the closed state of the open / close detection switch 14 is detected in step S3, the control microcomputer 15 cancels the video light mode and ends the all white display on the LCD panel 12 (step S4). Thereafter, the control microcomputer 15 ends this process. On the other hand, if the open / close detection switch 14 is in the open state in step S3, the control microcomputer 15 returns to the process of step S2 and holds the all white display on the LCD panel 12.

  As described above, according to the imaging apparatus of the first embodiment, when the LCD panel is displaying all white in the video light mode, the video light mode is canceled only by closing the LCD panel, White display ends. Therefore, the user can easily understand how to cancel the video light mode. As a result, the convenience for the user is improved, and a convenient method for canceling the video light mode can be provided.

  In the above embodiment, the video light mode is canceled when the LCD panel 12 is closed. However, the video light mode may be canceled only when the LCD panel 12 is in the forward rotation storage state. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of another video camera. This operation program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the control microcomputer 15 and is executed by a CPU (not shown) in the control microcomputer 15.

  First, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether the video light mode is detected by the video light mode detection circuit 16 (step S11). When it is detected that the video light mode is OFF, the control microcomputer 15 ends this processing as it is.

  On the other hand, when it is detected that the video light mode is ON, the control microcomputer 15 switches the LCD panel 12 to all white display (step S12). In the video light mode in which the LCD panel 12 is switched to all white display, the control microcomputer 15 detects whether or not the normal rotation state is detected by the inversion detection switch 17 (step S13). If it is in the forward rotation state, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether or not the closed state of the open / close detection switch 14 has been detected (step S14).

  When the closed state of the open / close detection switch 14 is detected, that is, when it is in the forward rotation storage state, the control microcomputer 15 cancels the video light mode and ends the all white display on the LCD panel 12 (step S15). On the other hand, if it is detected in step S13 that the inversion state is detected by the inversion detection switch 17, or if the open / close detection switch 14 is in the open state in step S14, the control microcomputer 15 returns to the processing in step S12 and returns to the LCD panel. 12 full white display is maintained. This state corresponds to one of a normal rotation state, a facing state, and a reverse storage state.

  As described above, by releasing the video light mode only when the forward rotation storage state in which all white display is unnecessary is required, the user can more easily understand how to release the video light mode.

[Second Embodiment]
A method for canceling the video light mode in the imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described. Since the configuration of the imaging apparatus of the second embodiment is almost the same as that of the first embodiment, the description of the same components is omitted by using the same reference numerals, and different configurations are described here. To do.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control circuit in the second embodiment. Compared with the first embodiment, a key operation detection circuit 51 and a timer 52 are added to the control circuit, and whether or not a key operation is performed on a predetermined key (not shown) provided on the video camera body 1. Can be detected, and the time from the last key operation can be measured. Note that the open / close detection switch 14 and the reverse detection switch 17 in the first embodiment are omitted.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the video camera. This operation program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the control microcomputer 15 and is executed by a CPU (not shown) in the control microcomputer 15. At the start of this operation, the timer 52 is reset to the initial value 0.

  First, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether or not the video light mode is detected by the video light mode detection circuit 16 (step S21). When it is detected that the video light mode is OFF, the control microcomputer 15 ends this processing as it is.

  On the other hand, when it is detected that the video light mode is ON, the control microcomputer 15 switches the LCD panel 12 to all white display (step S22). In the video light mode in which the LCD panel 12 is switched to the all-white display, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether or not the key operation is detected by the key operation detection circuit 51 (step S23).

  When it is determined by the key operation detection circuit 51 that no key operation is performed, the control microcomputer 15 detects whether or not the time counted by the timer 52 after the last key operation has passed a predetermined time (step). S24). When it is detected that the time counted by the timer 52 has passed the predetermined time, the control microcomputer 15 cancels the video light mode and ends the all white display on the LCD panel 12 (step S25). Thereafter, the control microcomputer 15 ends this process.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S23 that any key operation has been performed by the key operation detection circuit 51, the control microcomputer 15 returns to the process in step S22, maintains the video light mode, and keeps the LCD panel 12 in an all white display. And At this time, the control microcomputer 15 resets the timer 52 to the initial value 0. On the other hand, if the time counted by the timer 52 after the last key operation in step S24 has not passed the predetermined time, the control microcomputer 15 returns to the process of step S22, holds the video light mode, and keeps the LCD panel. 12 is left in white display.

  As described above, according to the imaging apparatus of the second embodiment, after the video light mode shifts, no key operation is performed, and when a certain time elapses, the video light mode is canceled and the all-white display ends. . Therefore, it is possible to reduce a user's misunderstanding as a failure when shifting to the video light mode due to an erroneous operation.

[Third Embodiment]
A method for canceling the video light mode in the imaging apparatus according to the third embodiment will be described. Since the configuration of the imaging apparatus of the third embodiment is almost the same as that of the first embodiment, the description of the same components is omitted by using the same reference numerals, and different configurations are described here. To do.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control circuit in the third embodiment. Compared with the first embodiment, an EJECT switch 71 for taking out the recording medium to the outside is added to the control circuit, and the recording medium can be taken out from the video camera body 1 to the outside. The open / close detection switch 14 and the inversion detection switch 17 in the first embodiment are omitted.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the video camera. This operation program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the control microcomputer 15 and is executed by a CPU (not shown) in the control microcomputer 15.

  First, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether the video light mode is detected by the video light mode detection circuit 16 (step S31). When it is detected that the video light mode is OFF, the control microcomputer 15 ends this processing as it is.

  On the other hand, when it is detected that the video light mode is ON, the control microcomputer 15 switches the LCD panel 12 to all white display (step S32). In the video light mode in which the LCD panel 12 is switched to all white display, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether or not the EJECT operation (extraction operation) for the photographer to operate the EJECT switch 71 to take out the recording medium to the outside. Is determined (step S33). The process in step S33 corresponds to an extraction detection unit.

  If it is determined that the EJECT operation has been performed, the control microcomputer 15 cancels the video light mode and ends the all white display on the LCD panel 12 (step S34). Thereafter, the control microcomputer 15 ends this process.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S33 that the EJECT operation is not performed, the control microcomputer 15 returns to the process of step S32, maintains the video light mode, and keeps the LCD panel 12 in the all white display. Thereafter, the control microcomputer 15 ends this process.

  As described above, according to the image pickup apparatus of the third embodiment, when the LCD panel performs all white display in the video light mode, the video light mode is canceled by the take-out operation of taking out the recording medium from the video camera body. All white display ends. Thereby, when exchanging the recording medium, it is not necessary to cancel the video light mode, and the convenience for the user is improved.

[Fourth Embodiment]
A method for canceling the video light mode in the imaging apparatus according to the fourth embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control circuit in the fourth embodiment. Since the configuration of the imaging apparatus of the fourth embodiment is almost the same as that of the first embodiment, the description of the same components is omitted by using the same reference numerals, and different configurations are described here. To do.

  Compared to the first embodiment, a media remaining amount detection circuit 91 (corresponding to the remaining capacity detecting means) is added to the control circuit, and the remaining amount of the recording medium can be detected. Note that the open / close detection switch 14 and the inversion detection switch 17 in the first embodiment are omitted.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the video camera. This operation program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the control microcomputer 15 and is executed by a CPU (not shown) in the control microcomputer 15.

  First, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether or not the video light mode detection circuit 16 detects that the video light mode is ON (step S41). When it is detected that the video light mode is OFF, the control microcomputer 15 ends this processing as it is.

  On the other hand, when it is detected that the video light mode is ON, the control microcomputer 15 switches the LCD panel 12 to all white display (step S42). In the video light mode in which the LCD panel 12 is switched to the all-white display, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether or not the remaining capacity of the recording medium detected by the remaining medium detection circuit 91 is lost, that is, the remaining capacity is equal to or less than the threshold value. It is determined whether or not (step S43).

  When it is detected that the remaining capacity of the recording medium is exhausted, the control microcomputer 15 cancels the video light mode and ends the all white display on the LCD panel 12 (step S44). Thereafter, the control microcomputer 15 ends this process.

  On the other hand, if it is not detected in step S43 that the remaining capacity of the recording medium has been exhausted, the control microcomputer 15 returns to the process of step S42 and maintains the video light mode and keeps the LCD panel 12 in the all white display. To do. Thereafter, the control microcomputer 15 ends this process.

  As described above, according to the imaging apparatus of the fourth embodiment, when the remaining capacity of the recording medium is exhausted when the LCD panel is displaying all white in the video light mode, the video light mode is canceled and all white is displayed. The display ends. Accordingly, the termination of the recording medium can be easily understood together with the release of the video light mode, and the convenience for the user is improved.

[Fifth Embodiment]
A method for canceling the video light mode in the imaging apparatus according to the fifth embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control circuit in the fifth embodiment. Since the configuration of the imaging apparatus of the fifth embodiment is almost the same as that of the first embodiment, the description of the same components will be omitted by using the same reference numerals, and different configurations will be described here. To do.

  Compared with the first embodiment, an OSD display circuit 101 is added to this control circuit, and OSD display is possible on the LCD panel 12. The open / close detection switch 14 and the inversion detection switch 17 in the first embodiment are omitted.

  In the first to fourth embodiments, the LCD panel 12 is displayed as all white in the video light mode. However, in the fifth embodiment, the contents indicating the method for canceling the video light mode are displayed on the LCD panel 12 by OSD ( Display by on-screen display). In this OSD display, a signal indicating the method for canceling the video light mode is superimposed on a signal indicating all white display.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a screen of the LCD panel 12 that is always displayed by the video light mode canceling method as an example. The display of the release method is always continued in the video light mode. Here, as a content indicating how to cancel the video light mode, the message “Video light mode can be canceled by closing the panel” is displayed in text. Accordingly, the user can cancel the video light mode only by closing the LCD panel 12 in accordance with the content indicating the method for canceling the video light mode superimposed on the all white display. Thus, the user can easily understand how to cancel the video light mode. The display of the content indicating the video light mode canceling method is not limited to the text display but may be an image display such as a picture.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a screen of the LCD panel 12 on which a method for canceling the video light mode is displayed as another example. Here, a video light mode release button 115 is arranged on the frame of the LCD panel 12. In this case, a message indicating the video light mode release button 115 with an arrow is displayed on the LCD panel 12 as text and an image.

  As described above, according to the imaging apparatus of the fifth embodiment, when the LCD panel performs the all white display in the video light mode, the content indicating the method for canceling the video light mode is superimposed on the all white display. This makes it easy to understand how to cancel the video light mode in any situation.

[Sixth Embodiment]
A method for canceling the video light mode in the imaging apparatus according to the sixth embodiment will be described. FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control circuit in the sixth embodiment. Since the configuration of the imaging apparatus of the sixth embodiment is almost the same as that of the first embodiment, the description of the same components will be omitted by using the same reference numerals, and different configurations will be described here. To do.

  Compared to the first embodiment, a REC review reproduction circuit 131 is added to this control circuit, and a REC view for confirming a photographed image is possible. The open / close detection switch 14 and the inversion detection switch 17 in the first embodiment are omitted.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the video camera. This operation program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the control microcomputer 15 and is executed by a CPU (not shown) in the control microcomputer 15.

  First, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether the video light mode is detected by the video light mode detection circuit 16 (step S61). When it is detected that the video light mode is OFF, the control microcomputer 15 ends this processing as it is.

  On the other hand, when it is detected that the video light mode is ON, the control microcomputer 15 switches the LCD panel 12 to all white display (step S62). In the video light mode in which the LCD panel 12 is switched to the all white display, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether or not the REC review is started by the REC review reproduction circuit 131 (Step S63).

  When the REC review is started, the control microcomputer 15 cancels the video light mode and ends the all white display on the LCD panel 12 (step S64). Thereafter, the control microcomputer 15 determines whether or not the REC review is completed (step S65). When the REC review is completed, the control microcomputer 15 returns to the process of step S62 and switches the LCD panel 12 to all white display. On the other hand, if the REC review has not been completed in step S65, the control microcomputer 15 ends this process.

  On the other hand, if the REC review is not started in step S63, the control microcomputer 15 returns to the process of step S62, maintains the video light mode, and keeps the LCD panel 12 in the all white display.

  As described above, according to the imaging device of the sixth embodiment, when the REC review is started when the LCD panel is displaying all white in the video light mode, the video light mode is canceled and the REC review is performed. When finished, the video light mode is restored. Thereby, the all white display in the video light mode on the LCD panel can be resumed, and the display on the LCD panel can be easily switched to the reproduction of the photographed image, and the confirmation of the photographed image becomes easy.

  The present invention is not limited to the configuration of the above-described embodiment, and any configuration can be used as long as the functions shown in the claims or the functions of the configuration of the present embodiment can be achieved. Is also applicable.

  For example, in each of the above embodiments, a backlight type LCD panel is used as the display means, but a self-luminous display means such as an organic EL display may be used. In addition, a surface electric field display (SED), a plasma display, or the like may be used.

  In the above embodiment, the liquid crystal panel is provided to be openable / closable and rotatable with respect to the side surface of the video camera body. However, the imaging apparatus is not limited to such a structure. For example, an imaging apparatus having a structure in which a liquid crystal panel is detachably attached to the front and back of the video camera main body may be used.

It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the video camera in 1st Embodiment. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration of a control circuit of a part mainly related to control of an LCD panel 12. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a video camera. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of another video camera. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control circuit in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a video camera. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control circuit in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a video camera. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control circuit in 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a video camera. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control circuit in 5th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the screen of the LCD panel 12 as which the cancellation | release method of the video light mode was displayed as an example. It is a figure which shows the screen of the LCD panel 12 as which the cancellation | release method of the video light mode was displayed as another example. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control circuit in 6th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a video camera.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Video camera body 11 LCD drive circuit 12 LCD panel 14 Open / close detection switch 15 Control microcomputer 16 Video light mode detection circuit 17 Reverse detection switch 51 Key operation detection circuit 71 EJECT switch 91 Media remaining amount detection circuit 101 OSD display circuit 131 Rec review reproduction circuit

Claims (16)

An imaging device for imaging a subject,
Display means for performing video display or all white display of the imaged subject;
Selecting means for selecting a video light mode for using the display means as a video light;
An imaging device comprising: display control means for canceling the video light mode and ending all white display by the display means when a specific situation occurs when the video light mode is selected apparatus. An imaging device for imaging a subject,
Display means for performing video display or all white display of the imaged subject;
Open / close detecting means for detecting an open / closed state of the display means;
Selecting means for selecting a video light mode for using the display means as a video light;
When the video light mode is selected and the open / close detection means detects that the display means is open, the display means is switched to all white display, while the display means is closed. An image pickup apparatus comprising: display control means for canceling the video light mode and ending all white display by the display means when it is detected. Direction detecting means for detecting that the display means is directed toward the subject or the photographer;
When the video light mode is selected, the display control means detects that the display means is facing the photographer by the direction detection means, and the display means is closed by the open / close detection means. 3. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the state is detected, the video light mode is canceled and the all-white display by the display unit is terminated. An imaging device for imaging a subject,
Display means for performing video display or all white display of the imaged subject;
Operation detecting means for detecting that a key operation has been performed on the imaging device;
Clocking means for timing the time since the last time the key operation was detected;
Selecting means for selecting a video light mode for using the display means as a video light;
When the video light mode is selected, the display means is switched to all white display. On the other hand, when a predetermined time has passed, the video light mode is canceled and the display means is displayed. An image pickup apparatus comprising: display control means for ending the all white display according to the above. An imaging device for imaging a subject,
Display means for performing video display or all white display of the imaged subject;
A recording medium that is detachably provided in the imaging device and on which the captured video is recorded;
A take-out detecting means for detecting that a take-out operation for taking out the recording medium is performed;
Selecting means for selecting a video light mode for using the display means as a video light;
When the video light mode is selected, the display means is switched to all white display. On the other hand, when it is detected that the take-out operation has been performed, the video light mode is canceled and the display means An image pickup apparatus comprising: display control means for terminating white display. An imaging device for imaging a subject,
Display means for performing video display or all white display of the imaged subject;
A recording medium provided in the imaging apparatus, on which the captured video is recorded;
A remaining capacity detecting means for detecting a remaining capacity of the recording medium;
Selecting means for selecting a video light mode for using the display means as a video light;
When the video light mode is selected, the display means is switched to all white display. On the other hand, when the remaining capacity of the recording medium is equal to or less than a threshold by the remaining capacity detecting means, the video light mode is canceled. An image pickup apparatus comprising display control means for ending all white display by the display means. An imaging device for imaging a subject,
Display means for performing video display or all white display of the imaged subject;
Selecting means for selecting a video light mode for using the display means as a video light;
Display control means for switching the display means to all white display when the video light mode is selected;
Superimposing means for superimposing content indicating a method for canceling the video light mode on the switched white display,
The display control means cancels the video light mode and terminates all white display by the display means when a predetermined operation is performed in accordance with the content indicating the method for canceling the superimposed video light mode. An imaging device that is characterized. A display control method for an imaging apparatus that images a subject,
A display step in which the display unit of the imaging apparatus performs video display or all-white display of the imaged subject;
A selection step in which the selection unit of the imaging device selects a video light mode for using the display unit as a video light;
A display control step in which the display control means of the imaging apparatus cancels the video light mode and terminates the all-white display by the display means when a specific situation occurs when the video light mode is selected; A display control method comprising: A display control method for an imaging apparatus that images a subject,
A display step in which the display unit of the imaging apparatus performs video display or all-white display of the imaged subject;
An open / close detection step in which the open / close detection means of the imaging device detects an open / closed state of the display means;
A selection step in which the selection unit of the imaging device selects a video light mode for using the display unit as a video light;
When the display control means of the imaging device detects that the display means is in the open state in the open / close detection step when the video light mode is selected, the display means is switched to all white display, On the other hand, a display control method comprising: a display control step of canceling the video light mode and ending all white display by the display means when it is detected that the display means is in a closed state. The direction detection means of the imaging device includes a direction detection step of detecting that the display means is directed to the subject side or the photographer side;
In the display control step, when the video light mode is selected, it is detected in the direction detection step that the display means is facing the photographer side, and the display means is closed in the open / close detection step. The display control method according to claim 9, wherein when the state is detected, the video light mode is canceled and the all-white display by the display unit is ended. A display control method for an imaging apparatus that images a subject,
A display step in which the display unit of the imaging apparatus performs video display or all-white display of the imaged subject;
An operation detection step in which the operation detection means of the imaging device detects that a key operation has been performed on the imaging device;
A time measuring step for measuring a time from when the time measuring means of the image pickup device was detected that the key operation was last performed;
A selection step in which the selection unit of the imaging device selects a video light mode for using the display unit as a video light;
When the video light mode is selected, the display control means of the imaging device switches the display means to all white display, while if the time counted in the time measuring step has passed a predetermined time, the video A display control step of canceling the light mode and ending the all-white display by the display means. A display control method for an imaging apparatus that images a subject,
A display step in which the display unit of the imaging apparatus performs video display or all-white display of the imaged subject;
An extraction detection step for detecting that an extraction operation for taking out a recording medium in which the extraction detection means of the imaging apparatus is detachably provided in the imaging apparatus and on which the captured video is recorded is performed; ,
A selection step in which the selection unit of the imaging device selects a video light mode for using the display unit as a video light;
When the display control means of the imaging device switches the display means to all white display when the video light mode is selected, on the other hand, when it is detected that the take-out operation has been performed, the video light mode And a display control step of terminating the all-white display by the display means. A display control method for an imaging apparatus that images a subject,
A display step in which the display unit of the imaging apparatus performs video display or all-white display of the imaged subject;
A remaining capacity detecting step of detecting a remaining capacity of a recording medium in which the remaining capacity detecting means of the imaging apparatus is provided in the imaging apparatus and the captured video is recorded;
A selection step in which the selection unit of the imaging apparatus selects a video light mode for using the display unit as a video light;
When the video light mode is selected, the display control unit of the imaging apparatus switches the display unit to all white display, while the remaining capacity of the recording medium becomes equal to or less than a threshold value in the remaining capacity detecting step. A display control step of canceling the video light mode and ending all white display by the display means. A display control method for an imaging apparatus that images a subject,
A display step in which the display unit of the imaging apparatus performs video display or all-white display of the imaged subject;
A selection step in which the selection unit of the imaging device selects a video light mode for using the display unit as a video light;
A display control step of switching the display means to all white display when the video light mode is selected by the display control means of the imaging device;
A superimposing step in which the superimposing means of the imaging device superimposes content indicating a method of canceling the video light mode on the switched all-white display,
The display control means cancels the video light mode and terminates all white display by the display means when a predetermined operation is performed in accordance with the content indicating the method for canceling the superimposed video light mode. A characteristic display control method. An imaging device for imaging a subject,
Display means for performing video display or all white display of the imaged subject;
Rec review playback means for playing back the captured video;
Selecting means for selecting a video light mode for using the display means as a video light;
When the video light mode is selected, the display means is switched to all white display. On the other hand, when the REC review is started by the REC review playback means, the video light mode is canceled and the display means And a display control means for returning to the video light mode and resuming all white display by the display means when the white display is finished and then the video playback by the REC review playback means is finished. An imaging device. A display control method for an imaging apparatus that images a subject,
A display step in which the display unit of the imaging apparatus performs video display or all-white display of the imaged subject;
A REC review playback step in which the REC review playback means of the imaging device plays back the captured video;
A selection step in which the selection unit of the imaging device selects a video light mode for using the display unit as a video light;
When the video light mode is selected, the display control means of the imaging device switches the display means to all white display, while when the REC review is started by the REC review playback means, the video light mode Is displayed to terminate the all-white display by the display means, and after that, when the reproduction of the video by the REC review reproduction means is terminated, the display returns to the video light mode and the all-white display by the display means is resumed. A display control method for the image pickup apparatus.

Images