JP2012089944A - Imaging apparatus and imaging method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an imaging apparatus and an imaging method capable of emphasizing and displaying an imaged celestial body.SOLUTION: An imaging apparatus of the present invention has an imaging part which shoots a subject in an angle of a view of a lens to obtain an image; a shooting direction detection part which detects a direction in which the lens is directed based on an elevation angle and a direction of the lens; a shooting range specification part which specifies a range of the sky included in the image obtained by the imaging part based on an acquisition position and an acquisition time of the image, the angle of the view of the lens, a detection result of the shooting direction detection part; a database part in which information on the celestial body is stored; and an image processing part which corrects at least either one of a size or brightness of each celestial body included in the image obtained by the imaging part based on the specified result of the shooting range specification part and the information stored in the database part.

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus and an imaging method, and more particularly to an imaging apparatus and an imaging method suitable for imaging celestial bodies.

  Conventionally proposed is a device configured to acquire position information such as the latitude and longitude of the current position by GPS (Global Positioning System) and use the acquired position information for various processes. Specifically, an apparatus has been proposed that acquires position information of the current position by GPS and displays a sky map that can be viewed from the acquired current position.

  Further, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a celestial object corresponding to the pixel group by comparing a pixel group having a certain luminance included in image data captured by a camera with celestial data in the celestial data file. Based on the association between the identified pixel group and the celestial object, obtains celestial data display information about the celestial object associated with the pixel group from the celestial data file, and displays the display on the image data. An astronomical observation apparatus having a configuration for generating composite image data in which information is superimposed is disclosed.

JP 2009-210875 A

  However, in the case of finding a constellation by looking at the actual sky, for example, it may be possible to find a constellation as long as a dark star can be seen with a visible brightness. That is, there may be a case where various kinds of information displayed on the composite image of Patent Document 1 are not necessarily required.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an imaging apparatus and an imaging method capable of displaying an imaged celestial object with emphasis.

  An imaging apparatus according to the present invention includes an imaging unit that captures an image of a subject within an angle of view of a lens and acquires an image, and an imaging direction detection unit that detects a direction in which the lens faces based on an elevation angle and an orientation of the lens. An imaging range that identifies a sky range included in the image acquired by the imaging unit based on the acquisition position and acquisition time of the image, the angle of view of the lens, and the detection result of the imaging direction detection unit Included in the image acquired by the imaging unit based on the specifying unit, the database unit storing information about the celestial body, the specifying result of the shooting range specifying unit, and the information stored in the database unit An image processing unit that corrects at least one of the size and brightness of each celestial body.

  The imaging method of the present invention includes an imaging step of capturing an image of a subject within the angle of view of the lens and acquiring an image, and an imaging direction detecting step of detecting a direction in which the lens is facing based on an elevation angle and an orientation of the lens; An imaging range that identifies the sky range included in the image acquired by the imaging step based on the acquisition position and acquisition time of the image, the angle of view of the lens, and the detection result of the imaging direction detection step Of the size and brightness of each celestial body included in the image acquired by the imaging step based on the identification step, the identification result of the imaging range identification step, and the information about the celestial object stored in the database unit And an image processing step for correcting at least one of the above.

  According to the imaging apparatus and the imaging method of the present invention, an imaged celestial body can be highlighted and displayed.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a main part of a camera according to an embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed in a shooting mode. The figure which shows an example of the guide display in case the astronomical photography assistance mode can be used. The figure which shows an example of the display of constellation information. The figure which shows an example of a display of the image data containing a sub screen. The flowchart which shows an example of the process etc. which are performed at the time of reproduction | regeneration mode.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. 1 to 6 relate to an embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a main part of a camera according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a camera 101 as a digital camera includes an imaging unit 1, an orientation sensor 2, an inclination sensor 3, an imaging direction detection unit 4, a GPS receiver 5, an image processing unit 6, and a database unit. 7, a CPU 8, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 9, a display unit 10, a display control unit 11, a memory interface 12 (hereinafter, memory I / F 12), a recording medium 13, a clock 14, and an operation unit 15 and a bus 16.

  The imaging unit 1 includes a lens, a diaphragm mechanism, a shutter mechanism, a focus adjustment mechanism, an imaging element, and the like. Further, the imaging unit 1 is configured to capture a subject within the angle of view of the lens and acquire and output image data relating to the photographed subject based on the control of the CPU 8.

  The azimuth sensor 2 detects the azimuth of the lens of the imaging unit 1 (an angle corresponding to the azimuth angle) as needed, and outputs the detection result to the photographing direction detection unit 4.

  The tilt sensor 3 detects the elevation angle of the lens of the imaging unit 1 (an angle corresponding to the tilt angle with respect to the horizontal direction) as needed, and outputs the detection result to the shooting direction detection unit 4.

  The photographing direction detection unit 4 is configured to detect and output a photographing direction, which is a direction in which the lens of the imaging unit 1 faces, based on detection results output from the orientation sensor 2 and the tilt sensor 3. .

  For example, the GPS receiver 5 is configured to measure the current position based on radio waves received from a plurality of GPS satellites and output the positioning result as position data.

  The image processing unit 6 performs various image processing on the image data acquired by the imaging unit 1, thereby generating an image file to be recorded on the recording medium 13, generating image data for recording view display, and It is configured to be able to generate image data for live view display. The image processing unit 6 is configured to read an image file recorded on the recording medium 13 and generate image data for reproduction display based on the read image file.

  The database unit 7 stores a star database 7a, a constellation database 7b, a nebula database 7c, and a star map database 7d as information about celestial bodies.

  In the star database 7a, for example, a plurality of star data in which a name of a sky star and a realization grade value are associated with each star are stored.

  The constellation database 7b stores, for example, a plurality of constellation data in which constellation names, names of celestial bodies constituting the constellations, and constellation lines of the constellations are associated with each constellation.

  The nebula database 7c stores, for example, a plurality of nebula data in which the names of nebulae and the names of constellations belonging to the nebulae are associated with each nebula.

  The star map database 7d includes, for example, star map data in which a position and date / time in the sky are associated with information on celestial bodies at the position / date and time.

  The CPU 8 is configured to include an imaging range specifying unit 8a that performs processing described later. The CPU 8 reads a program written in advance in a nonvolatile memory (not shown) according to the operation of each unit of the camera 101, and executes processing based on the read program. Furthermore, the CPU 8 controls each unit related to the instruction based on an instruction output to the bus 16 in response to a user operation.

  The RAM 9 temporarily stores various data such as image data processed by the image processing unit 6 and data related to the calculation result of the CPU 8.

  Under the control of the display control unit 11, the display unit 10 displays a rec view display that displays image data immediately after shooting for a certain period of time, a playback display of an image file recorded on the recording medium 13, and a composition of the subject to be shot. Various image displays such as a live view display that can be confirmed by moving images can be performed. Further, the display unit 10 is configured to have a touch panel function, and is configured to be able to give an instruction according to an operation of a switch group displayed on the screen.

  The display control unit 11 controls the display unit 10 to display the image data processed by the image processing unit 6. Further, the display control unit 11 is configured to be able to generate image data related to a GUI (Graphical User Interface) such as a switch group to be displayed on the screen of the display unit 10 and an input screen for prompting input of various information. Yes. Further, the display control unit 11 outputs an instruction made in accordance with a GUI operation displayed on the display unit 10 to the CPU 8 via the bus 16.

  The memory I / F 12 is configured so that the recording medium 13 can be electrically connected to the camera 101.

  The recording medium 13 is configured by a memory card or the like, and can be attached to and detached from the memory I / F 12 and can store an image file generated by the image processing unit 6.

  The clock 14 is configured to acquire the current date and time as needed and output the acquisition result as date and time data.

  The operation unit 15 is provided with an input device group such as a power button, a release button, a playback button, and various input keys.

  The power button of the operation unit 15 is configured to be able to issue an instruction for switching the power of the camera 101 on or off in accordance with a user operation.

  The release button of the operation unit 15 includes a two-stage switch including a first release switch and a second release switch. When the first release switch is turned on in response to half-pressing of the release button, the CPU 8 controls the imaging unit 1 to perform operations related to AE (automatic exposure) and AF (automatic focus). In addition, when the second release switch is turned on in response to the release button being fully pressed, the CPU 8 performs control for causing the imaging unit 1 to perform shooting of the subject.

  The playback button of the operation unit 15 is configured to issue an instruction to display a still image obtained by photographing a subject on the display unit 10 in accordance with a user operation. When the CPU 8 detects that the playback button is turned off, the CPU 8 sets the operation mode of the camera 101 to the shooting mode, and operates the image processing unit 6 and the display control unit 11 to perform live view display. Further, when the CPU 8 detects that the playback button is turned on, the image processing unit sets the operation mode of the camera 101 to the playback mode and plays back and displays the image file recorded on the recording medium 13. 6 and the display control unit 11 are operated.

  The bus 16 is configured as a transfer path for transferring various data generated inside the camera 101 to each unit of the camera 101. In addition, the bus 16 includes an imaging unit 1, a shooting direction detection unit 4, a GPS receiver 5, an image processing unit 6, a database unit 7, a CPU 8, a RAM 9, a display control unit 11, and a memory I / F 12. And the clock 14 and the operation unit 15.

  Here, an operation in the case of performing shooting using the camera 101 having the above-described configuration will be described. FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed in the shooting mode.

  First, when the power of the camera 101 is turned on according to the operation of the power button of the operation unit 15, the CPU 8 detects whether or not the playback button of the operation unit 15 is turned on (step S1 in FIG. 2). When the CPU 8 detects that the playback button of the operation unit 15 is turned on in step S1 of FIG. 2, the CPU 8 sets the operation mode of the camera 101 to the playback mode (step S2 of FIG. 2). Then, the process shown in step S101 of FIG. 6 is continued.

  In addition, when the CPU 8 detects that the playback button of the operation unit 15 is turned off in step S <b> 1 in FIG. 2, the CPU 8 sets the operation mode of the camera 101 to the shooting mode, and then from the shooting direction detection unit 4. An imaging direction to be output, position data output from the GPS receiver 5, date / time data output from the clock 14, and field angle data indicating the width of the field angle of the lens of the imaging unit 1 are acquired.

  Specifically, for example, when the lens of the imaging unit 1 has a fixed angle of view, the above-described angle-of-view data can be acquired by reading data stored in a nonvolatile memory (not shown). Alternatively, for example, in the case where the lens of the imaging unit 1 is configured as a replaceable lens unit, by reading data stored in a nonvolatile memory (not shown) provided for each lens unit, the above-described image can be obtained. Corner data can be acquired.

  On the other hand, the shooting range specifying unit 8a of the CPU 8 performs processing for specifying the sky range corresponding to the through image of the camera 101 based on the shooting direction, position data, date / time data, and angle of view data. (Step S3 in FIG. 2).

  Further, the CPU 8 determines whether or not the night sky is photographed by the camera 101 based on the photographing direction and date / time data acquisition result (step S4 in FIG. 2). Specifically, the CPU 8 detects that the lens of the imaging unit 1 is facing upward with respect to the horizontal direction based on the shooting direction output from the shooting direction detection unit 4, and the current time is sunset. When it is detected based on the date / time data that it is a time corresponding to the time from sunrise to sunrise, a determination result that the night sky is captured by the camera 101 is obtained.

  When the CPU 8 obtains a determination result that the night sky is not photographed by the camera 101 in step S4 of FIG. 2, the CPU 8 shifts to the normal photographing mode. Accordingly, the CPU 8 causes the live view display of the through image obtained by the imaging unit 1 to be displayed on the display unit 10 (step S17 in FIG. 2), and captures image data when it is detected that the release button is fully pressed. 2 (step S18 and step S19 in FIG. 2), and the image data obtained by shooting is recorded as an image file on the recording medium 13, and thereafter (regardless of whether shooting is performed or not), step S1 in FIG. Return to and process.

  When the CPU 8 obtains a determination result that the night sky is being photographed by the camera 101 in step S4 of FIG. 2, the CPU 8 further stores the result in the star map database 7d based on the acquisition result of the position data and date / time data. By referring to the star map data, it is determined whether or not a constellation exists in the sky range corresponding to the through image of the camera 101 (step S5 in FIG. 2). Specifically, the CPU 8 performs processing using a technique disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-17223, so that a constellation exists in the sky range corresponding to the through image of the camera 101. It is determined whether or not.

  When the CPU 8 obtains a determination result that there is no constellation in the sky range corresponding to the through image of the camera 101 in step S5 of FIG. 2, the CPU 8 shifts to the normal shooting mode. Accordingly, the CPU 8 causes the live view display of the through image obtained by the imaging unit 1 to be displayed on the display unit 10 (step S17 in FIG. 2), and captures image data when it is detected that the release button is fully pressed. 2 (step S18 and step S19 in FIG. 2), and the image data obtained by shooting is recorded as an image file on the recording medium 13, and thereafter (regardless of whether shooting is performed or not), step S1 in FIG. Return to and process.

  When the CPU 8 obtains a determination result that a constellation exists in the sky range corresponding to the through image of the camera 101 in step S5 in FIG. 2, the display unit 10 indicates that the astrophotography assistance mode can be used. Is displayed as a guide (step S6 in FIG. 2).

  Specifically, when the CPU 8 obtains a determination result that a constellation exists in the sky range corresponding to the through image of the camera 101, the CPU 8 uses the astronomical imaging assistance mode by touching with a user's finger or the like. An icon 201 having a switch function capable of giving an instruction, for example, as shown by an asterisk in FIG. 3, is displayed at the corner of the screen of the display unit 10.

  Thereafter, when the instruction to use the astronomical photographing assist mode is not issued (step S7 in FIG. 2), the CPU 8 shifts to the normal photographing mode. Accordingly, the CPU 8 causes the live view display of the through image obtained by the imaging unit 1 to be displayed on the display unit 10 (step S17 in FIG. 2), and captures image data when it is detected that the release button is fully pressed. 2 (step S18 and step S19 in FIG. 2), and the image data obtained by shooting is recorded as an image file on the recording medium 13, and thereafter (regardless of whether shooting is performed or not), step S1 in FIG. Return to and process.

  On the other hand, when the CPU 8 detects that an instruction to use the astrophotography assistance mode has been made (step S7 in FIG. 2), at least one of the constellations existing in the angle of view is further set as the constellation. It is determined whether or not shooting is possible in an identifiable state (step S8 in FIG. 2).

  Specifically, the CPU 8 acquires setting of the image size at the time of shooting by reading setting data stored in a memory or the like (not shown), and shows the largest image among the constellations existing in the angle of view. The constellation is extracted, and the horizontal width Ph and the vertical width Pv within the angle of view of the extracted constellation are acquired. When the CPU 8 detects that the horizontal width Ph exceeds 15% of the horizontal width of the image size at the time of shooting, or the vertical width Pv exceeds 15% of the vertical width of the image size at the time of shooting. In any of the cases where the constellation is detected, a determination result is obtained that the constellation existing within the angle of view can be photographed in a state that can be identified as the constellation.

  If the CPU 8 obtains a determination result that the constellation existing within the angle of view cannot be photographed in a state that can be identified as a constellation in step S8 of FIG. 2, the CPU 8 continues the process of step S12 of FIG. Do.

  When the CPU 8 obtains a determination result that the constellation existing in the angle of view can be photographed in a state that can be identified as the constellation in step S8 of FIG. 2, the CPU 8 highlights each constellation reflected in the through image. (Step S9 in FIG. 2).

  Here, the process performed at the time of highlighting in step S9 in FIG. 2 will be described by taking as an example the case where there is one constellation existing in the angle of view.

  First, the CPU 8 refers to the star database 7a and the constellation database 7b to determine the brightest star realization class S1 and the darkest star realization class S2 among the stars constituting the constellation in the angle of view. After each acquisition, the difference value Sd of the realization class is calculated by subtracting the value of S2 from the value of S1.

  Then, the CPU 8 obtains the size (area) Db of the star reflected most in the through image from among the stars constituting the constellation, and then performs the calculation using the following formula (1). The size (area) Dx of the star to be drawn at the time of highlighting is calculated for each star constituting the constellation. Note that Sx in the following formula (1) indicates the realization class (S2 ≦ Sx ≦ S1) of the star to be drawn at the time of highlighting, and is a value that can be acquired by referring to the star database 7a. It is. N in the following formula (1) corresponds to the enlargement magnification at the time of highlighting, and is set in advance to a predetermined value (for example, N = 3) and is changed to a user's desired value. be able to.

Dx = N * Db * {S2- (Sx-S1)} / (Sd + 1) (1)

On the other hand, the CPU 8 calculates the average luminance Yb of the portion excluding the celestial bodies (such as the moon and stars) reflected in the through image, and then expresses the maximum luminance Ym (for example, represented by 8 bits) that can be expressed in the image data at the time of shooting. In this case, the luminance difference value Yw is calculated by subtracting the Yb value from the Ym = 255) value.

  Thereafter, the CPU 8 calculates the brightness Yx of the star to be drawn at the time of highlighting for each star constituting the constellation by performing a calculation using the following formula (2).

Yx = {Yw− (Yw / Sd + 2) × (Sx−S1)} + Yb (2)

Then, the CPU 8 controls the image processing unit 6 to draw the constellation in the through image using the values of Dx and Yx calculated for each star constituting the constellation.

  On the other hand, the image processing unit 6 corrects and draws the size of each star constituting the constellation according to the value of Dx, and the brightness of each star constituting the constellation according to the value of Yx The drawing process is performed after correction. Further, the image processing unit 6 draws each star constituting the constellation so as to gradually darken from the center to the periphery of the star based on the value of Yx obtained from the calculation result of the CPU 8.

  Specifically, the image processing unit 6 selects a drawing target star in the through image, expands the selected star to a size (area) Dx, and includes each of the pixels included in the pixel group corresponding to the enlarged star. Specify pixel coordinates. Then, the image processing unit 6 performs drawing while determining the luminance of each pixel included in the pixel group corresponding to the enlarged star using the luminance Yp obtained as the calculation result of the following formula (3). In the following mathematical formula (3), Hw is a value (number of pixels) indicating the horizontal width of the pixel group corresponding to the enlarged star. Hx in Equation (3) below is a value indicating the distance from the central pixel of the pixel group corresponding to the enlarged star to the pixel to be drawn, and is the coordinate of each pixel specified in the pixel group. Can be calculated based on this.

Yp = Yx × (Hw−Hx) / Hw (3)

Then, by drawing based on the values of Dx, Yx, and Yp obtained through the processing described above, each star constituting the constellation reflected in the through image is emphasized (in live view). Can be displayed. Furthermore, by repeating the above-described processing and the like according to the number of constellations present in the angle of view, even if there are multiple constellations in the angle of view, for each constellation (in live view) ) The same highlighting can be performed.

  It is assumed that the image processing unit 6 performs drawing by deleting light sources other than stars when performing highlighting by the processes exemplified above.

  In addition, the image processing unit 6 may draw a star other than the stars constituting the constellation in the highlighting by the processing exemplified above, or may be drawn other than the stars constituting the constellation. You may draw without performing processing for other stars.

  Further, the image processing unit 6 draws a constellation line for indicating a constellation by referring to the star database 7a and the constellation database 7b in highlighting by the processing exemplified above. Also good.

  The image processing unit 6 is a parameter used in the above-described processing or the like, and is a size (area) Dx of a star to be drawn at the time of highlighting and a star to be drawn at the time of highlighting. The brightness Yx is not limited to one calculated for each star constituting each constellation within the angle of view, for example, all stars existing within the angle of view (regardless of whether or not they are stars constituting the constellation). It may be calculated every time. In such a case, the realization grade of the brightest star among all the stars existing in the angle of view is S1, and the realization grade of the darkest star among all the stars existing in the angle of view is S2. By setting Db as the size (area) of the star that is the largest among all the stars existing in the angle of view, the values of Dx and Yx are individually determined for each star existing in the angle of view. Can be sought.

  Further, the image processing unit 6 of the present embodiment corrects (enlarges) the star size according to the value of Dx, and corrects the star brightness according to the value of Yx. It is not limited to performing the (brightening) process together, and only one of the processes may be performed.

  On the other hand, the CPU 8 determines whether or not a shooting operation has been performed by fully pressing the release button while the highlighting in step S9 in FIG. 2 is being performed (step S10 in FIG. 2). Then, when the shooting operation is not performed during the highlighted display in step S9 in FIG. 2, the CPU 8 returns to step S1 in FIG. 2 to perform the process.

  Further, when the CPU 8 detects that the photographing operation is performed while the highlighting in step S9 in FIG. 2 is being performed, the image data in the state in which the highlighting in step S9 in FIG. Two pieces of image data, that is, the image data that has been highlighted in step S9 in step 2 are acquired in one shooting (step S11 in FIG. 2). Further, the CPU 8 generates image files corresponding to the two image data obtained by the photographing in step S11 of FIG. 2, and records them on the recording medium 13 in a state where the image files are associated with each other as a pair. Thereafter, the process returns to step S1 in FIG. 2 to perform processing (regardless of whether or not the shooting in step S11 in FIG. 2 is performed).

  On the other hand, when the CPU 8 obtains a determination result that the constellation existing in the angle of view cannot be photographed in a state where it can be identified as the constellation in step S8 in FIG. 2, the CPU 8 notifies the location of the constellation. Information (for example, an arrow etc.) is displayed on the screen of the display part 10 (step S12 of FIG. 2).

  Specifically, when the CPU 8 obtains the determination result that the constellation existing in the angle of view cannot be photographed in a state where it can be identified as the constellation, for example, as shown in FIG. Is displayed in the vicinity of each constellation in the screen of the display unit 10.

  Thereafter, the CPU 8 determines whether any constellation has been selected by the user from among the constellations for which the constellation information 202 is displayed (step S13 in FIG. 2).

  Specifically, for example, when the CPU 8 detects that the user's finger or the like has touched any of the constellation information 202 displayed on the screen of the display unit 10, the CPU 8 responds to the detection result. A determination result that the constellation has been selected is obtained.

  If the constellation is not selected in step S13 in FIG. 2, the CPU 8 returns to step S1 in FIG. 2 to perform processing. Further, when the CPU 8 detects that any constellation is selected from the constellations for which the constellation information 202 is displayed in step S13 of FIG. 2, the CPU 8 displays the sub screen including the selected constellation. Image data is generated and displayed on the display unit 10 (step S14 in FIG. 2).

  Here, the processing performed when generating the image data of the sub screen in step S14 in FIG. 2 will be described by taking as an example the case where “crab” is selected from the constellations shown in FIG. Do.

  The CPU 8 cuts out the portion where the Cancer is reflected from the through image, and then enlarges it at a preset magnification.

  The CPU 8 performs the same image processing as that performed at the highlighting in step S9 in FIG. The image data of the sub screen in a state where is highlighted is generated.

  Then, for example, as shown in FIG. 5, the CPU 8 arranges and displays the sub-screen 203 at a position that is reflected in the through image or does not cover the seat. At this time, it is assumed that the constellation information 202 other than the “constellation” that is a constellation selected from the constellations shown in FIG. 4 is temporarily hidden.

  The CPU 8 determines whether or not a shooting operation has been performed by fully pressing the release button while the sub-screen 203 generated in step S14 of FIG. 2 is being displayed (step S15 of FIG. 2). If the photographing operation is not performed while the sub screen 203 generated in step S14 of FIG. 2 is being displayed, the CPU 8 returns to step S1 of FIG. 2 to perform the process.

  When the CPU 8 detects that a photographing operation has been performed while the sub screen 203 generated in step S14 of FIG. 2 is being displayed, the CPU 8 displays the image data without the sub screen 203 and the sub screen 203. The attached image data (see FIG. 5) and the two image data are acquired in one shooting (step S16 in FIG. 2). Further, the CPU 8 generates image files corresponding to the two image data obtained by the photographing in step S16 of FIG. 2, and records them on the recording medium 13 in a state where the image files are associated with each other as a set. Thereafter, the process returns to step S1 in FIG. 2 to perform processing (regardless of whether or not the shooting in step S16 in FIG. 2 is performed).

  Next, operations for reproducing and displaying the image data recorded on the recording medium 13 will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing performed in the playback mode.

  The CPU 8 determines whether or not the animation mode is selected in the switch displayed on the display unit 10 or the input device group of the operation unit 15 after setting the operation mode of the camera 101 to the playback mode in step S2 of FIG. A determination is made (step S101 in FIG. 6).

  When the CPU 8 obtains a determination result that the animation mode is not selected in step S101 in FIG. 6, the CPU 8 performs normal reproduction display (step S109 in FIG. 6). Accordingly, the CPU 8 displays a list of image files recorded on the recording medium 13 on the display unit 10 (thumbnail display), and reproduces and displays the image data of the image file selected from the list displayed. Then, the process of step S110 in FIG.

  Further, when the CPU 8 obtains the determination result that the animation mode is selected in step S101 in FIG. 6, the CPU 8 further sets two sets of image data obtained by photographing at the time of highlighting (step in FIG. 2). It is determined whether or not the image data obtained by photographing in S11 is in each image file recorded on the recording medium 13 (step S102 in FIG. 6).

  When the CPU 8 obtains a determination result in step S102 in FIG. 6 that the pair of image data obtained by photographing at the time of highlighting is not in each image file recorded on the recording medium 13. Then, normal reproduction display is performed (step S109 in FIG. 6). Accordingly, the CPU 8 displays a list of image files recorded on the recording medium 13 on the display unit 10 (thumbnail display), and reproduces and displays the image data of the image file selected from the list displayed. Then, the process of step S110 in FIG.

  In addition, when the CPU 8 obtains a determination result in step S102 of FIG. 6 that each set of image data obtained by photographing at the time of highlighting is in each image file recorded on the recording medium 13. For extracting two sets of image files corresponding to the determination result from the recording medium 13 and then selecting one set of image files from the image files obtained as the extraction result. Display the selection screen.

  Thereafter, when the CPU 8 detects that any one set of image files to be subjected to animation processing has been selected on the selection screen (step S103 in FIG. 6), the number of frames Fn set in advance (for example, 30 fps × 3 seconds). = 90 frames), the image data before highlighting (before enlarging the star size) is set as the first frame, and after highlighting (enlarging the star size) Then, the image data is set as the Fn-th frame (final frame). Then, the CPU 8 sets the image data of the first frame as processing amount = 0 and sets the image data of the Fn-th frame as processing amount = 1, so that the Fn-th image data from the image data of the first frame is determined. A processing amount 1 / Fn for one frame when performing the animation processing up to the image data of the frame is determined (step S104 in FIG. 6).

  Based on the processing amount 1 / Fn determined by the CPU 8, the image processing unit 6 determines that the size of each star included in the image data of the image file selected in step S103 in FIG. 6 is 1 / Fn per frame. Drawing is performed so as to gradually enlarge at a rate of (step S105 in FIG. 6). In step S105 of FIG. 6, the image processing unit 6 gradually increases the size of each star at a rate of 1 / Fn per frame, and sets the brightness of each star to 1 per frame. The image may be drawn so as to be gradually brightened at a rate of / Fn.

  In addition, the image processing unit 6 refers to the star database 7a and the constellation database 7b, so that each constellation included in the image data selected in step S103 in FIG. 6 and a constellation line for indicating each constellation , Is detected. Then, based on the processing amount 1 / Fn determined by the CPU 8, the image processing unit 6 sets the constellation line of each constellation included in the image data selected in step S103 of FIG. 6 to 1 / Fn per frame. Drawing is performed so as to be gradually added at a rate (step S106 in FIG. 6). Note that the constellation line added for each frame by the process of step S106 in FIG. 6 may be drawn so as to float by 1 / Fn, or 1 / Fn from each star constituting the constellation. It may be drawn so as to extend by Fn.

  Further, the image processing unit 6 specifies the nebula to which each constellation detected in step S106 of FIG. 6 belongs by referring to the constellation database 7b and the nebula database 7c. Then, based on the processing amount 1 / Fn determined by the CPU 8, the image processing unit 6 gradually adds nebulae contained in the image data selected in step S103 in FIG. 6 at a rate of 1 / Fn per frame. Drawing is performed so as to be colored (step S107 in FIG. 6).

  Then, the image processing unit 6 repeatedly performs the processing from step S105 to step S107 in FIG. 6 until the image data of the Fnth frame (final frame) is reached, and the image of the Fnth frame (final frame). When it is detected that the data has been processed (step S108 in FIG. 6), a series of animation processing is completed.

  On the other hand, after the process of step S108 or step S109 of FIG. 6 is performed, the CPU 8 detects that an instruction to end the reproduction display is made (for example, by turning off the reproduction button of the operation unit 15). 6 repeatedly after step S101 in FIG. 6 (step S110 in FIG. 6).

  When the CPU 8 detects that an instruction to end the reproduction display of the image data is given in accordance with the operation of the operation unit 15 (step S110 in FIG. 6), the CPU 8 completes a series of processes in the reproduction mode, and FIG. The process of step S1 is performed again.

  Note that, according to the present embodiment, the highlighting in the astronomical photography assist mode is not limited to the processing in which the size and brightness of the star reflected in the angle of view is changed and drawn, For example, processing may be performed in which the brightness and saturation of the nebula reflected in the angle of view are changed and drawn.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the size and brightness of the captured star can be corrected and highlighted. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to easily find a desired constellation when observing a celestial body while viewing the actual sky.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and it is needless to say that various modifications and applications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image pick-up part 2 Direction sensor 3 Tilt sensor 4 Image | photographing direction detection part 5 GPS receiver 6 Image processing part 7 Database part 8 CPU
8a Imaging range specifying unit 9 RAM
10 Display unit 11 Display control unit 12 Memory I / F
13 Recording medium 14 Clock 15 Operation unit 16 Bus 101 Camera

Claims (12)

An imaging unit that captures an image by capturing a subject within the angle of view of the lens;
An imaging direction detection unit that detects a direction in which the lens is facing based on an elevation angle and an azimuth of the lens;
An imaging range specification that specifies the sky range included in the image acquired by the imaging unit based on the acquisition position and acquisition time of the image, the angle of view of the lens, and the detection result of the imaging direction detection unit And
A database section that stores information about celestial bodies;
Correct at least one of the size and brightness of each celestial body included in the image acquired by the imaging unit based on the specification result of the imaging range specifying unit and the information stored in the database unit An image processing unit to
An imaging device comprising:   The said image processing part correct | amends the brightness of each star contained in the image acquired by the said imaging part based on the value of the grade for every star stored in the said database part. The imaging apparatus according to 1. A determination unit that determines whether or not a constellation is included in the image acquired by the imaging unit, based on the identification result of the imaging range identification unit and the information stored in the database unit;
The image processing unit, when the determination unit obtains a determination result that a constellation is included in the image acquired by the imaging unit, at least of the size and brightness of each star constituting the constellation The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein one of the two is corrected.   When the determination result that the constellation is included in the image acquired by the imaging unit is obtained by the determination unit, a message indicating that correction by the image processing unit can be performed is displayed on the display unit as a guide. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3.   When the determination unit obtains a determination result that a constellation is included in the image acquired by the imaging unit, the determination unit further includes at least one of the constellations included in the image acquired by the imaging unit. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein it is determined whether or not the image can be photographed in a state where one can be identified as a constellation.   When the determination unit obtains a determination result that the constellation included in the image acquired by the imaging unit cannot be photographed in a state where the constellation can be identified as a constellation, there is information for informing where the constellation exists. The imaging apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the imaging apparatus is displayed on a display unit. An imaging step of capturing an image by photographing a subject within the angle of view of the lens;
A shooting direction detection step of detecting a direction in which the lens is directed based on an elevation angle and an azimuth of the lens;
Based on the acquisition position and acquisition time of the image, the angle of view of the lens, and the detection result of the imaging direction detection step, an imaging range specification that specifies the sky range included in the image acquired by the imaging step Steps,
At least one of the size and brightness of each celestial object included in the image acquired by the imaging step based on the identification result of the imaging range identification step and the information on the celestial object stored in the database unit. An image processing step to be corrected;
An imaging method characterized by comprising:   The image processing step corrects the brightness of each star included in the image acquired by the imaging step based on a grade value for each star stored in the database unit. 8. The imaging method according to 7. A determination step of determining whether or not a constellation is included in the image acquired by the imaging step based on the identification result of the imaging range identification step and the information stored in the database unit;
In the image processing step, when the determination result that the constellation is included in the image acquired by the imaging step is obtained by the determination step, the size and brightness of each star constituting the constellation The imaging method according to claim 7, wherein at least one of the corrections is corrected.   When the determination result that the constellation is included in the image acquired by the imaging step is obtained by the determination step, a display step for displaying a guide on the display unit that the correction by the image processing step can be performed. The imaging method according to claim 9, further comprising:   When the determination step obtains a determination result that a constellation is included in the image acquired in the imaging step, at least one of the constellations included in the image acquired in the imaging step The imaging method according to claim 9, wherein it is determined whether or not it is possible to photograph in a state where one can be identified as a constellation.   Information for notifying the location of the constellation when the determination result that the constellation included in the image acquired by the imaging step cannot be photographed in a state that can be identified as a constellation is obtained by the determination step. The imaging method according to claim 11, further comprising a display step of displaying on the display unit.

Images