JP2013247541A - Imaging apparatus, control method of the same, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To facilitate operation corresponding to a set imaging mode.SOLUTION: An imaging apparatus comprises a display controller and a controller. The display controller causes a display unit to display an image generated by an imaging unit. If a specific operation is received in a manual focus mode for allowing a user to obtain focus manually, the controller performs control to magnify and display a predetermined area in the image. Furthermore, if a specific operation is received in an autofocus mode for automatically obtaining focus, the controller performs control to execute autofocus control.

Description

  The present technology relates to an imaging apparatus. Specifically, the present invention relates to an imaging apparatus that displays an image generated by an imaging operation, a control method thereof, and a program that causes a computer to execute the method.

  In recent years, a digital still camera, a digital video camera (for example, a camera-integrated recorder) or the like that captures an image of a subject such as a person or a plant, generates image data, and records the generated image data as an image content (image file). The imaging device is widely used. In addition, for example, there has been proposed an imaging apparatus capable of performing an imaging operation while confirming image data to be recorded by displaying an image generated by the imaging operation on a display unit.

  For example, there has been proposed an imaging apparatus in which an area to be focused is set on an image displayed on a display unit, and a subject included in this area can be appropriately focused (see, for example, Patent Document 1). ).

JP 2006-30370 A

  In the above-described conventional technique, when a half-press operation of the shutter button is performed in the autofocus mode, the subject included in the area set on the image can be automatically focused.

  Here, there is an image pickup apparatus that can set either a manual focus mode in which a user manually focuses or an auto focus mode. When the manual focus mode is set in this imaging apparatus, it is assumed that the user performs focusing while watching an image (so-called live view image) displayed on the display unit. Even when the manual focus mode is set in this way, it is important for the user to easily perform an appropriate operation.

  The present technology has been developed in view of such a situation, and an object thereof is to easily perform an operation according to a set imaging mode.

  The present technology has been made to solve the above-described problems. The first aspect of the present technology is that a display control unit that displays an image generated by an imaging unit on a display unit and a manual focus adjustment by a user. When a specific operation is accepted in the manual focus mode, the predetermined area in the image is enlarged and displayed, and when the specific operation is accepted in the autofocus mode in which the focus is automatically adjusted, the auto focus control is executed. An image pickup apparatus including a control unit that performs control for causing the image forming apparatus to control the image pickup apparatus, a control method thereof, and a program that causes a computer to execute the method. As a result, when a specific operation is accepted in the manual focus mode, a predetermined area in the image is enlarged and displayed, and when a specific operation is accepted in the autofocus mode, autofocus control is executed. .

  In the first aspect, the specific operation may be performed using the same operation member. Thereby, the effect | action of performing specific operation using the same operation member is brought about.

  In the first aspect, the operation member may be a shutter button, and the specific operation may be a half-press operation of the shutter button. Thus, the shutter button is used as the same operation member, and the half-press operation of the shutter button is used as the specific operation.

  In the first aspect, the control unit enlarges and displays the predetermined area when the full press operation of the shutter button is accepted in the manual focus mode, and the imaging at the timing of the full press operation. The image generated by the recording unit may be recorded on a recording medium, and the enlarged display may be continuously performed while the half-pressing operation of the shutter button is accepted after the recording of the image. As a result, when a full press operation of the shutter button is accepted in the manual focus mode, a predetermined area is displayed in an enlarged manner, and an image generated at the timing of the full press operation is recorded on the recording medium. While the half-press operation of the shutter button is accepted after recording, the enlarged display is continuously performed.

  In this first aspect, the operation member is a shutter button, the specific operation is a full-press operation of the shutter button, and the control unit accepts the full-press operation of the shutter button in the manual focus mode. In the case where the predetermined area is enlarged, the full-pressing operation of the shutter button is accepted again after the enlarged display, and the image generated by the imaging unit at the timing of the full-pressing operation is recorded on the recording medium. You may make it perform control for recording. As a result, when a full-press operation of the shutter button is accepted in the manual focus mode, a predetermined area is enlarged and when the full-press operation of the shutter button is accepted again after the enlarged display, the full-press This brings about the effect that the image generated at the timing of the operation is recorded on the recording medium.

  In the first aspect, when the specific operation is not accepted after the predetermined area is enlarged and displayed, the control unit cancels the enlarged display and displays the original image on the display unit. You may make it perform control for making it display. Accordingly, when the specific operation is not accepted after the predetermined area is enlarged and displayed, the enlarged display is canceled and the original image is displayed on the display unit.

  In the first aspect, when the imaging device is an imaging device to which an interchangeable lens can be attached, and a manual focus lens is attached as the interchangeable lens, the manual focus mode is set, and the exchange is performed. When an autofocus lens is attached as a lens, the autofocus mode may be set. As a result, the manual focus mode is set when a manual focus lens is attached as an interchangeable lens, and the autofocus mode is set when an autofocus lens is attached as an interchangeable lens. Bring.

  According to the present technology, an excellent effect that an operation according to a set imaging mode can be easily performed can be achieved.

It is a figure showing an example of appearance composition of imaging system 10 in an embodiment of this art. It is a block diagram showing an example of an internal configuration of imaging system 10 in an embodiment of this art. It is a block diagram showing an example of functional composition of imaging device 100 in an embodiment of this art. It is a figure showing an example of use of imaging system 10 in an embodiment of this art. It is a figure which shows the example of a display transition of the image displayed on the display part 115 in embodiment of this technique. It is a figure which shows the example of a display transition of the image displayed on the display part 115 in embodiment of this technique. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure of an imaging control process performed by the imaging device 100 according to the embodiment of the present technology.

Hereinafter, modes for carrying out the present technology (hereinafter referred to as embodiments) will be described. The description will be made in the following order.
1. Embodiment (Imaging control: an example in which processing when a specific operation (for example, half-pressing a shutter button) is performed is changed according to an imaging mode)

<1. Embodiment>
[External configuration example of imaging system]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration example of an imaging system 10 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

  The imaging system 10 includes an imaging device 100 and an interchangeable lens 200. Further, the imaging system 10 is realized by, for example, a digital still camera (for example, a digital single-lens camera) capable of exchanging lenses.

  The imaging device 100 is an imaging device that captures an image of a subject, generates image data (captured image), and records the generated image data as image content (still image content or moving image content), for example. In addition, the imaging apparatus 100 includes, for example, a lens mount mechanism (not shown), so that the interchangeable lens 200 can be attached or detached. Accordingly, the user can attach the interchangeable lens to the imaging apparatus 100 so as to be exchanged depending on, for example, the shooting situation and the purpose.

  FIG. 1A is a front view showing the external appearance of the imaging system 10, FIG. 1B is a rear view showing the external appearance of the imaging system 10, and FIG. FIG.

  The imaging apparatus 100 includes an imaging element 111, a display unit 115, a shutter button 121, a mode dial 122, up / down / left / right operation buttons 123, an enter button 124, a cancel button 125, and a power switch 126. In addition, the interchangeable lens 200 includes a zoom lens 211, a focus lens 221, and a diaphragm 231. The zoom lens 211, the focus lens 221 and the aperture 231 are built in the interchangeable lens 200, and the image sensor 111 is built in the image pickup apparatus 100. It shows with.

  The shutter button 121 is an operation member for performing a shutter operation, and is fully pressed or half pressed by the user. For example, when the shutter button 121 is pressed halfway, processing (autofocus processing or enlarged display processing) corresponding to the imaging mode is performed. Further, when the shutter button 121 is fully pressed, the image data captured at the time of the full press is recorded in the recording device 116 (shown in FIG. 2). Thus, the shutter button 121 is an operation member that can be pressed in two stages.

  The mode dial 122 is a dial for setting each mode. For example, an imaging mode, a playback mode (a mode for displaying an image recorded in the recording device 116 (shown in FIG. 2)), and the like are set by operating the mode dial 122.

  The up / down / left / right operation button 123 is an operation button used to select an item such as a button or an image displayed on the display unit 115, and the currently selected item moves up / down / left / right according to the pressed portion. To do.

  The decision button 124 is a button used when the selection state of each item displayed on the display unit 115 is confirmed. The cancel button 125 is a button used to cancel the confirmation when the selection state of each item displayed on the display unit 115 is confirmed.

  The power switch 126 is a switch for switching on / off the power of the imaging apparatus 100.

[Example of internal configuration of imaging system]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration example of the imaging system 10 according to the embodiment of the present technology.

  In FIG. 2, an autofocus lens (an interchangeable lens capable of performing autofocus control) is shown as an interchangeable lens 200. However, the manual focus lens (interchangeable lens for performing manual focus) is different in that each configuration for performing auto focus control is omitted, but other than this is substantially the same. Description is omitted.

[Internal configuration example of interchangeable lens]
The interchangeable lens 200 is an interchangeable lens unit that is attached to the imaging apparatus 100 via a lens mount mechanism (not shown). The interchangeable lens 200 includes a zoom lens 211, a zoom position detection unit 212, a focus lens 221, a focus lens drive motor 222, a diaphragm 231, a diaphragm drive motor 232, a motor driver 240, and a lens control unit 250. Prepare. The interchangeable lens 200 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 260, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 270, and an I / F (interface) 280. The zoom lens 211, the focus lens 221 and the aperture 231 correspond to the parts having the same name shown in FIG.

  The zoom lens 211 is a lens that adjusts the focal length by moving in the optical axis direction by either electric driving or manual driving. That is, the zoom lens 211 is a lens that is driven back and forth with respect to the subject in order to enlarge or reduce the subject included in the captured image. Further, the zoom function is realized by the zoom lens 211. In the embodiment of the present technology, an example in which the zoom lens 211 is driven by a manual operation by a user is shown.

  The zoom position detection unit 212 detects the position of the zoom lens 211 driven by the zoom operation by the user, and outputs the detection result to the lens control unit 250.

  The focus lens 221 is a lens that adjusts the focus by moving in the optical axis direction by driving the focus lens drive motor 222. That is, the focus lens 221 is a lens used for focusing (focusing) on a subject. The focus lens 221 realizes an autofocus function.

  The focus lens drive motor 222 drives the focus lens 221 based on the control of the motor driver 240.

  The diaphragm 231 adjusts the amount of incident light that passes through the zoom lens 211 and the focus lens 221, and the adjusted light is supplied to the image sensor 111. The diaphragm 231 is driven by a diaphragm drive motor 232 to adjust the opening of the diaphragm.

  The aperture drive motor 232 drives the aperture 231 based on the control of the motor driver 240.

  As described above, the zoom lens 211 and the focus lens 221 constituting the interchangeable lens 200 are a lens group that collects incident light from the subject, and the light collected by these lens groups is imaged through the diaphragm 231. Incident on the element 111.

  The motor driver 240 is a driver that drives the focus lens driving motor 222 and the aperture driving motor 232 based on the control of the lens control unit 250.

  The lens control unit 250 performs communication processing of various information with the imaging apparatus 100, and controls each unit (the focus lens 221, the aperture 231 and the like) constituting the interchangeable lens 200 based on the communication result. . That is, the lens control unit 250 controls each unit constituting the interchangeable lens 200 based on a control signal from the control unit 130 of the imaging device 100. The lens control unit 250 is configured by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

  The ROM 260 is a memory in which unique information regarding each member constituting the interchangeable lens 200, a program executed by the lens control unit 250, and the like are stored.

  The RAM 270 is a memory used as a work area when the lens control unit 250 executes arithmetic processing.

  The I / F 280 is an interface for performing communication with the imaging apparatus 100.

[Example of internal configuration of imaging device]
The imaging apparatus 100 includes a system bus 101, an imaging element 111, an analog signal processing unit 112, an A / D (Analog / Digital) conversion unit 113, and a digital signal processing unit 114. In addition, the imaging apparatus 100 includes a display unit 115, a recording device 116, a vertical driver 117, a timing generator 118, an operation unit 120, and a control unit 130. Further, the imaging apparatus 100 includes a memory (ROM) 140, a memory (RAM) 150, and a memory (EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory)) 160. In addition, the imaging apparatus 100 includes a detection unit 170 and an I / F 180.

  The operation unit 120 corresponds to the shutter button 121, the mode dial 122, the up / down / left / right operation button 123, the determination button 124, the cancel button 125, and the power switch 126 shown in FIG. Further, the image sensor 111 and the display unit 115 correspond to the parts having the same names shown in FIG.

  Note that the digital signal processing unit 114, the vertical driver 117, the timing generator 118, the operation unit 120, and the detection unit 170 are connected via the system bus 101 so as to be able to communicate with the control unit 130, for example. A memory (ROM) 140, a memory (RAM) 150, and a memory (EEPROM) 160 are also connected to be able to communicate with the control unit 130 and the like via the system bus 101.

  The imaging element 111 is a photoelectric conversion element that receives light (incident light) supplied via the zoom lens 211, the focus lens 221 and the aperture 231 and converts the incident light into an electric signal. The converted electric signal Is supplied to the analog signal processing unit 112. The image sensor 111 is driven by a vertical driver 117. For example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor can be used as the image sensor 111.

  The analog signal processing unit 112 performs analog signal processing such as noise removal processing on the electrical signal (analog signal) supplied from the image sensor 111 according to the timing instructed by the timing generator 118. Then, the analog signal processing unit 112 supplies the analog signal that has been subjected to the analog signal processing to the A / D conversion unit 113.

  The A / D conversion unit 113 converts the analog signal supplied from the analog signal processing unit 112 into a digital signal according to the timing instructed by the timing generator 118, and converts the converted digital signal into the digital signal processing unit 114. To supply.

  The digital signal processing unit 114 performs image processing such as black level correction, white balance adjustment, and γ correction on the digital signal supplied from the A / D conversion unit 113 based on the control of the control unit 130. Then, the digital signal processing unit 114 supplies the image data subjected to the image processing to the display unit 115 and the recording device 116.

  For example, the digital signal processing unit 114 performs compression processing on the image data on which image processing has been performed, and supplies the image data (compressed image data) on which the compression processing has been performed to the recording device 116. As a compression method, for example, a JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) method can be adopted. It is also possible to supply image data in the RAW data format that has not been subjected to compression processing to the recording device 116. The digital signal processing unit 114 performs decompression processing on the compressed image data recorded in the recording device 116 and supplies the image data subjected to the decompression processing to the display unit 115. The digital signal processing unit 114 can be realized by a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), for example.

  For example, the digital signal processing unit 114 performs an enlargement process for enlarging a subject included in an image corresponding to the digital signal supplied from the A / D conversion unit 113. As described above, when the digital signal processing unit 114 performs the enlargement process, the extraction range of the image included in the imaging range is narrowed. That is, by enlarging a part of an image included in the imaging range (for example, the focus area 500 shown in FIG. 4b) by electronic image processing, it is possible to enlarge the subject included in the imaging range. As described above, the digital signal processing unit 114 realizes a function (focus area enlargement function) for enlarging and displaying a part of a subject included in an image (so-called live view image) displayed on the display unit 115. Thereby, focus confirmation can be easily performed in the manual focus mode. Note that examples of these enlarged displays are shown in FIGS.

  The display unit 115 is a display device that displays the image data supplied from the digital signal processing unit 114. The display unit 115 displays, for example, image data that has been subjected to image processing by the digital signal processing unit 114 as a live view image (through image). For example, the display unit 115 displays the image data recorded in the recording device 116 as a list image. As the display unit 115, for example, a display panel such as an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) panel or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) can be used.

  The recording device 116 is a recording medium that records image data that has been subjected to image processing by the digital signal processing unit 114. Further, the recording device 116 supplies the recorded image data to the digital signal processing unit 114. Note that the recording device 116 may be built in the imaging apparatus 100 or detachable from the imaging apparatus 100. Various devices such as a semiconductor memory, an optical recording medium, a magnetic disk, and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) can be used as the recording device 116. As an optical recording medium, for example, a recordable DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a recordable CD (Compact Disc), a Blu-ray Disc (registered trademark), and the like can be used.

  The vertical driver 117 is a vertical driver that drives the image sensor 111 based on the control of the control unit 130.

  The timing generator 118 instructs the operation timing of each of the vertical driver 117, the analog signal processing unit 112, and the A / D conversion unit 113 based on the reference clock supplied from the control unit 130. The operation timing is instructed by, for example, outputting a timing signal generated based on the reference clock supplied from the control unit 130 to each unit.

  The operation unit 120 includes operation members such as buttons and switches for performing various operations, and is an operation unit that receives an operation input from a user. The content of the received operation input is transmitted to the control unit 130 via the system bus 101. Output to. In addition to the operation members such as buttons arranged on the outer surface of the imaging apparatus 100, a touch panel may be provided on the display unit 115 so that an operation input from the user is received on the touch panel.

  The memory (ROM) 140 is a non-volatile memory that stores programs to be executed by the control unit 130 and various data.

  The memory (RAM) 150 is a volatile memory that holds data that should be temporarily stored or rewritable data when the control unit 130 operates. For example, a working memory when the control unit 130 operates. Used as

  A memory (EEPROM) 160 is a memory that retains data even when the imaging apparatus 100 is powered off, and records various setting conditions and the like.

  The I / F 180 is an interface that performs communication with the interchangeable lens 200 by being connected to an I / F 280 provided in the interchangeable lens 200 attached to the imaging apparatus 100.

  The control unit 130 includes, for example, a CPU that executes a program stored in the memory (ROM) 140, and controls each unit of the imaging apparatus 100 based on each information stored in the memory (ROM) 140. Is. In addition, the control unit 130 performs communication control with the interchangeable lens 200 and transmits / receives various information.

  The control unit 130 controls, for example, exposure, white balance, focus, and the like. Further, for example, the control unit 130 generates a control signal based on a user operation input from the operation unit 120 and image information from the digital signal processing unit 114 during an imaging operation. Then, the control unit 130 outputs the generated control signal to the motor driver 240, the vertical driver 117, the timing generator 118, and the like, and operates the focus lens 221, the aperture 231 and the like, so that the exposure, white balance, focus, etc. Take control. In addition, the control unit 130 sends a transmission request for information used for each process to the interchangeable lens 200.

  In addition, when recording image data that has been subjected to image processing by the digital signal processing unit 114, the control unit 130 is based on a user operation input from the operation unit 120 (for example, a full press operation of the shutter button 121). The control signal is output to the digital signal processing unit 114. Then, the recording device 116 records the image data compressed by the digital signal processing unit 114 as a still image file. Further, when displaying the still image file recorded on the recording device 116, the control unit 130 outputs a control signal to the digital signal processing unit 114 based on a user operation input from the operation unit 120. Then, an image corresponding to the still image file recorded in the recording device 116 is displayed on the display unit 115.

  The detection unit 170 performs detection to extract a contrast component based on the image signal output from the digital signal processing unit 114, and generates an evaluation value for performing autofocus control by a contrast method.

  In the autofocus mode, the control unit 130 performs autofocus control for moving the focus lens 221 so as to be in focus based on the evaluation value generated by the detection unit 170. The detector 170 may be configured as one function executed by the digital signal processor 114, for example. Moreover, you may comprise so that the control part 130 may perform at least one part of the function. In the embodiment of the present technology, an example in which contrast AF (Auto Focus) is used as autofocus control is shown, but phase difference AF (AF by a phase difference detection method) may be used.

  Further, the control unit 130 sets an imaging mode (autofocus mode, manual focus mode) based on a user operation input (for example, operation of the mode dial 122) from the operation unit 120. Further, the control unit 130 may automatically set the imaging mode (auto focus mode, manual focus mode) through communication with the interchangeable lens 200 via the I / F 180. In addition, a switch (not shown) or the like may be provided in a portion where the interchangeable lens 200 is mounted, and an imaging mode (autofocus mode, manual focus mode) may be automatically set by turning on / off the switch. .

[Functional configuration example of imaging device]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of the imaging apparatus 100 according to the embodiment of the present technology.

  The imaging apparatus 100 includes an imaging unit 310, a display control unit 320, a display unit 330, a recording control unit 340, a recording medium 350, a control unit 360, an operation reception unit 370, and an interchangeable lens detection unit 380. Prepare.

  The imaging unit 310 captures a subject and generates an image (image data), and outputs the generated image to the display control unit 320 and the recording control unit 340. The imaging unit 310 corresponds to, for example, the imaging element 111, the analog signal processing unit 112, and the A / D (Analog / Digital) conversion unit 113 illustrated in FIG.

  The display control unit 320 displays the image generated by the imaging unit 310 on the display unit 330 based on the control of the control unit 360. The display control unit 320 corresponds to, for example, the digital signal processing unit 114 illustrated in FIG.

  The display unit 330 displays an image generated by the imaging unit 310 based on the control of the display control unit 320. The display unit 330 corresponds to, for example, the display unit 115 illustrated in FIG.

  The recording control unit 340 records the image generated by the imaging unit 310 on the recording medium 350 based on the control of the control unit 360. The recording control unit 340 corresponds to, for example, the digital signal processing unit 114 shown in FIG.

  The recording medium 350 records an image generated by the imaging unit 310 based on the control of the recording control unit 340. The recording medium 350 corresponds to, for example, the recording device 116 illustrated in FIG.

  For example, the control unit 360 sets either the manual focus mode or the autofocus mode as the imaging mode based on the user operation or the type of the interchangeable lens 200 to be mounted. For example, the control unit 360 sets a manual focus mode when a manual focus lens is attached as the interchangeable lens 200, and sets an autofocus mode when an autofocus lens is attached as the interchangeable lens 200. . The mounting of these lenses can be automatically determined based on the detection result by the interchangeable lens detection unit 380, for example.

  For example, when a specific operation is accepted in the manual focus mode, the control unit 360 enlarges a predetermined area (for example, the focus area 500 shown in FIG. 4B) in the image displayed on the display unit 330. Control to display. On the other hand, when the specific operation is accepted in the autofocus mode, the control unit 360 performs control for causing the interchangeable lens 200 to perform autofocus control.

  In addition, for example, when the specific operation is not accepted after the predetermined area is enlarged and displayed, the control unit 360 cancels the enlarged display and causes the display unit 330 to display the original image. Take control.

  Here, the specific operation is performed using the same operation member. Specifically, the same operation member is the shutter button 121, and the specific operation is a half-press operation of the shutter button 121. Note that the control unit 360 corresponds to, for example, the control unit 130 illustrated in FIG.

  The operation receiving unit 370 receives an operation input by the user (for example, a half-press operation or a full-press operation of the shutter button 121), and outputs a control signal corresponding to the received operation input to the control unit 360. The operation reception unit 370 corresponds to, for example, the operation unit 120 illustrated in FIG.

  The interchangeable lens detection unit 380 detects the type of the interchangeable lens 200 when the interchangeable lens 200 is attached to the imaging apparatus 100, and outputs the detection result to the control unit 360. The interchangeable lens detection unit 380 corresponds to, for example, the I / F 180 and the control unit 130 illustrated in FIG.

[Usage example of imaging device]
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a usage example of the imaging system 10 according to the embodiment of the present technology.

  In FIG. 4 a, the case where the relationship between the photographer 400 and the subject 410 is viewed from the side in a state where the imaging operation using the imaging system 10 (the imaging device 100 and the interchangeable lens 200) is performed is simplified. Show.

  FIG. 4b shows a simplified image (so-called live view image) displayed on the display unit 115 when the imaging operation is performed in the state shown in FIG. 4a.

  Here, a case where shooting is performed using a manual focus lens as the interchangeable lens 200 will be described.

  As shown in a of FIG. 4, it is assumed that shooting is performed using a manual focus lens as the interchangeable lens 200. In this case, the photographer 400 often waits for a photo opportunity while holding the main body of the imaging apparatus 100 with the right hand 401 and holding the interchangeable lens 200 (manual focus lens) with the left hand 402. In this standby state, the left hand 402 is mainly used for the focus adjustment operation, and the right hand 401 is often used for holding the imaging device 100 and pressing the shutter button 121. For example, in many cases, a standby state in which the index finger of the right hand 401 is placed on the shutter button 121 waits for a photo opportunity. As described above, in the shooting standby state, since the standby is often performed with the index finger of the right hand 401 placed on the shutter button 121, it is important to use the shutter button 121 effectively.

  Therefore, in the embodiment of the present technology, the shutter button 121 is used so that it can be easily grasped whether or not the focus is achieved.

  In FIG. 4 a, it is assumed that the photographer 400 performs shooting while focusing on the butterfly 411 on the flower as the subject of interest. In this case, as shown in FIG. 4b, the photographer 400 moves the imaging apparatus 100 so that the butterfly 411 enters the area (focus area 500) for focusing automatically by a user operation.

  Here, it is assumed that a lens capable of autofocus shooting (autofocus lens) is attached to the imaging apparatus 100 as the interchangeable lens 200. In this case, when the photographer 400 performs a half-pressing operation of the shutter button 121 with the right hand 401 in the state shown in FIG. 4A, autofocus control is performed.

  On the other hand, it is assumed that a lens (manual lens) for performing manual photographing is attached to the imaging apparatus 100 as the interchangeable lens 200. In this case, when the photographer 400 performs a half-press operation of the shutter button 121 with the right hand 401 in the state shown in FIG. 4A, the autofocus control is not performed. However, the image displayed in the focus area 500 is enlarged and displayed. Examples of this enlarged display are shown in FIGS.

[Image display transition example]
5 and 6 are diagrams illustrating display transition examples of images displayed on the display unit 115 according to the embodiment of the present technology.

  FIG. 5 shows a display transition example of an image (so-called live view image) when the focus area 510 is set at the center of the display surface of the display unit 115. FIG. 6 shows an example of display transition of an image (so-called live view image) when the focus area 520 for focusing is set at a position other than the center on the display surface of the display unit 115.

  Here, the focus area can be set by a user operation, for example. For example, when the display unit 115 is configured by a touch panel, the focus area can be set at a position desired by the user by a user's touch operation (touch operation at a position where the focus area is set). The focus area may be set automatically by the imaging apparatus 100. For example, when the focus area setting operation by the user is not performed, the focus area 510 is set at the center of the display surface of the display unit 115 as illustrated in FIG.

  FIGS. 5a and 6a show display examples when the shutter button 121 is not pressed (half-pressed or fully pressed). For example, a display example of an image (so-called live view image) in the case where shooting is performed in the state illustrated in FIG. In this case, a in FIG. 5 and a in FIG. 6 are common except that the positions of the focus areas 510 and 520 on the display surface of the display unit 115 are different.

  FIG. 5 b and FIG. 6 b show display examples when the shutter button 121 is half-pressed. For example, a display example of an image (so-called live view image) in the case where shooting is performed in the state illustrated in FIG. In this case, the image displayed in the focus areas 510 and 520 on the display surface of the display unit 115 is enlarged and displayed.

  Thereby, the photographer 400 can easily grasp the degree of focus of the subject in the focus area 510. In addition, since the enlarged display of the subject in the focus area 510 can be performed using the shutter button 121, the operation is easier than in the case where other operation members are used.

[Operation example of imaging device]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure of imaging control processing by the imaging device 100 according to the embodiment of the present technology.

  First, the control unit 360 determines whether or not the imaging mode is set (step S901). If the imaging mode is not set, monitoring is continued. On the other hand, when the imaging mode is set (step S901), the imaging unit 310 images the subject and generates image data (step S902). Subsequently, the display control unit 320 displays an image (a so-called live view image) on the display unit 330 based on the generated image data (step S903). In this case, while the manual focus mode is set, while the half-press operation of the shutter button 121 is being performed, the enlarged display of the focus area is continuously performed.

  Subsequently, the control unit 360 determines whether or not a half-press operation of the shutter button 121 is accepted (step S904). If the half-press operation of the shutter button 121 is not accepted, the process proceeds to step S908. In this case, if the shutter button 121 is half-pressed immediately before, processing by the half-press operation (enlarged display of the focus area when the manual focus mode is set and auto-focus processing when the auto-focus mode is set) is performed. Canceled. On the other hand, when the half-press operation of the shutter button 121 is received (step S904), the control unit 360 determines whether or not the manual focus mode is set (step S905).

  When the manual focus mode is set (step S905), the control unit 360 controls to enlarge and display the image included in the focus area (predetermined region) in the image displayed on the display unit 330. Is performed (step S906). That is, the display control unit 320 enlarges the image included in the focus area (predetermined region) in the image data generated by the imaging unit 310 and causes the display unit 330 to display the image (step S906).

  When the manual focus mode is not set (that is, when the autofocus mode is set) (step S905), the autofocus process is executed (step S907). That is, the control unit 360 performs control for executing autofocus processing for focusing the subject on the focus area (predetermined region) in the image displayed on the display unit 330 (step S907). For example, the interchangeable lens 200 executes the autofocus process based on the control of the control unit 360 (step S907).

  Subsequently, the control unit 360 determines whether or not a full press operation of the shutter button 121 has been accepted (step S908), and if the full press operation of the shutter button 121 has not been accepted, the process proceeds to step S910. On the other hand, when the full pressing operation of the shutter button 121 is received (step S908), the control unit 360 performs control for recording the image data generated by the imaging unit 310 on the recording medium 350 (step S909). ). That is, the recording control unit 340 records the image data generated by the imaging unit 310 on the recording medium 350 at the timing when the full pressing operation of the shutter button 121 is received (step S909).

  Subsequently, the control unit 360 determines whether or not the imaging mode has been canceled (step S910). If the imaging mode has not been canceled, the process returns to step S902. On the other hand, when the imaging mode is canceled (step S910), the operation of the imaging control process is terminated.

  Step S903 is an example of a display procedure described in the claims. Steps S904 to S907 are an example of a control procedure described in the claims.

  In this example, in the manual focus mode, when the half-press operation of the shutter button 121 is stopped, the enlarged display of the focus area is canceled. However, even when the half-press operation of the shutter button 121 is stopped, the enlarged display of the focus area may be continuously performed. In this case, the enlargement display of the focus area is canceled by some operation (for example, a full pressing operation of the shutter button 121).

  However, when the half-pressing operation of the shutter button 121 is continuously performed after the full-pressing operation of the shutter button 121, the enlarged display of the focus area may be continuously performed.

  As described above, the control unit 360 may enlarge the predetermined area when the full pressing operation of the shutter button 121 is accepted in the manual focus mode. In this case, an image generated by the imaging unit 310 at the timing of the full pressing operation is recorded on the recording medium 350. Further, after the image is recorded, the enlarged display may be continuously performed while the half-press operation of the shutter button 121 is accepted.

  In the embodiment of the present technology, the example in which the half-press operation of the shutter button 121 is used as the operation for performing the enlarged display of the focus area has been described. However, a full pressing operation of the shutter button 121 may be used as an operation for performing the enlarged display of the focus area. In this case, for example, the first fully pressing operation of the shutter button 121 (first operation) is an operation for enlarging the focus area, and the next full pressing operation of the shutter button 121 (second operation) is performed. It can be used as an operation for recording image data.

  As described above, the control unit 360 may enlarge the predetermined area when the full pressing operation of the shutter button 121 is accepted in the manual focus mode. In this case, when the full-press operation of the shutter button 121 is accepted again after the enlarged display, the image generated by the imaging unit 310 is recorded on the recording medium 350 at the timing of the full-press operation.

  Further, when the focus lens is operated in the manual focus mode, it is assumed that the user often performs focus adjustment. Therefore, in the manual focus mode, when the operation of the focus lens is continuously performed after the enlarged display of the predetermined area, the release time of the enlarged display of the predetermined area may be extended. For example, even when the half-press operation of the shutter button 121 is lost, the enlarged display of the predetermined area may be continuously performed while the focus lens is being operated.

  Also, in this example, the description is omitted, but when the shutter button 121 is half-pressed in the manual focus mode, AEL (AE (Auto Exposure) Lock) and the like are enabled together with the enlarged display of the focus area. You may do it.

  Here, generally, a half-press operation of the shutter button when the autofocus mode is set is used as an operation for starting the autofocus process. On the other hand, a half-press operation of the shutter button when the manual focus mode is set is used as an operation for validating AEL or the like. However, since the AEL is not a main function, it is important to more effectively use the half-press operation of the shutter button when the manual focus mode is set.

  Therefore, in the embodiment of the present technology, the shutter button half-press operation that is not effectively used in the manual focus mode is used for the enlarged display of the focus area, thereby effectively using the shutter button half-press operation. be able to. For example, in recent years, mirrorless cameras have become widespread, and the use of old-style manual focus lenses (manual focus lenses for film cameras) has become widespread. As described above, even when an old-style manual focus lens is used, the half-press operation of the shutter button can be effectively used.

  Here, for example, a case is assumed where a dedicated button is used for an operation for enlarging and displaying an image included in the focus area. When shooting using the dedicated button in this way, for example, after confirming the subject included in the focus area by the enlarged display by operating the dedicated button with the right hand, it is necessary to fully press the shutter button with the right hand There is. In this case, since it is necessary to perform the operation of the dedicated button and the full pressing operation of the shutter button with the right hand, an unnatural shooting operation is also assumed.

  On the other hand, in the embodiment of the present technology, the shutter button can be fully pressed after confirming the subject included in the focus area by the enlarged display by the half-press operation of the shutter button. That is, the user can perform shooting by a natural shooting operation using only the shutter button. For example, after performing framing, the user can confirm the subject included in the focus area by an enlarged display by half-pressing the shutter button, and after confirming this, the user can take a picture by full-pressing the shutter button. it can.

  As described above, in the embodiment of the present technology, since the operation member used in the process of a series of photographing sequences can be used, the functionality and operability can be improved. For example, a user who frequently uses enlarged display of the focus area can check the focus of the manual focus lens with a good rhythm with natural shooting operations. In addition, since the focus area can be enlarged and displayed by pressing the shutter button in a normal imaging operation, the enlarged display of the focus area can be incorporated into a natural shooting operation.

  In the embodiment of the present technology, the role of the same operation member (for example, a shutter button) can be switched according to the set imaging mode (manual focus mode, autofocus mode). That is, an appropriate operation can be realized in both the manual focus mode and the autofocus mode. Thereby, operation according to the set imaging mode can be easily performed.

  Note that in the embodiment of the present technology, the imaging device 100 including the imaging unit has been described as an example. However, the embodiment of the present technology may be applied to an information processing device (electronic device) in which the imaging unit is detachable. it can. In addition, the embodiment of the present technology can be applied to an information processing apparatus (electronic device) such as a mobile phone with an imaging function or a mobile terminal device with an imaging function.

  In the embodiments of the present technology, the description has been given by taking the interchangeable lens imaging device 100 as an example. However, the embodiments of the present technology are also applied to a lens-integrated imaging device (electronic device). Also good.

  The above-described embodiment shows an example for embodying the present technology, and the matters in the embodiment and the invention-specific matters in the claims have a corresponding relationship. Similarly, the invention specific matter in the claims and the matter in the embodiment of the present technology having the same name as this have a corresponding relationship. However, the present technology is not limited to the embodiment, and can be embodied by making various modifications to the embodiment without departing from the gist thereof.

  Further, the processing procedure described in the above embodiment may be regarded as a method having a series of these procedures, and a program for causing a computer to execute these series of procedures or a recording medium storing the program. You may catch it. As this recording medium, for example, a CD (Compact Disc), an MD (MiniDisc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), a memory card, a Blu-ray Disc (registered trademark), or the like can be used.

In addition, this technique can also take the following structures.
(1) a display control unit that causes the display unit to display an image generated by the imaging unit;
When a specific operation is accepted in a manual focus mode in which a user manually performs focus adjustment, a predetermined area in the image is enlarged and displayed, and when the specific operation is accepted in an auto focus mode in which focus adjustment is automatically performed Is an image pickup apparatus including a control unit that performs control for executing autofocus control.
(2) The imaging device according to (1), wherein the specific operation is performed using the same operation member.
(3) The operation member is a shutter button,
The imaging device according to (2), wherein the specific operation is a half-press operation of the shutter button.
(4) When the full press operation of the shutter button is accepted in the manual focus mode, the control unit enlarges and displays the predetermined area and an image generated by the imaging unit at the timing of the full press operation The image pickup apparatus according to (3), wherein the enlarged display is continuously performed while a half-press operation of the shutter button is accepted after recording the image.
(5) The operation member is a shutter button,
The specific operation is a full press operation of the shutter button,
The control unit displays the predetermined area in an enlarged manner when the full press operation of the shutter button is accepted in the manual focus mode, and when the full press operation of the shutter button is accepted again after the enlarged display. The image pickup apparatus according to (2), wherein control is performed to record an image generated by the image pickup unit on a recording medium at the timing of the full press operation.
(6) The control unit is configured to cancel the enlarged display and display the original image on the display unit when the specific operation is not accepted after the predetermined area is enlarged and displayed. The imaging device according to (1), wherein:
(7) The imaging device is an imaging device to which an interchangeable lens can be attached,
When a manual focus lens is attached as the interchangeable lens, the manual focus mode is set,
The imaging apparatus according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the autofocus mode is set when an autofocus lens is attached as the interchangeable lens.
(8) a display procedure for causing the display unit to display an image generated by the imaging unit;
When a specific operation is accepted in a manual focus mode in which a user manually performs focus adjustment, a predetermined area in the image is enlarged and displayed, and when the specific operation is accepted in an auto focus mode in which focus adjustment is automatically performed Is a control method of an imaging apparatus comprising a control procedure for executing autofocus control.
(9) a display procedure for causing the display unit to display an image generated by the imaging unit;
When a specific operation is accepted in a manual focus mode in which a user manually performs focus adjustment, a predetermined area in the image is enlarged and displayed, and when the specific operation is accepted in an auto focus mode in which focus adjustment is automatically performed Is a program that causes a computer to execute control procedures for executing autofocus control.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Imaging system 100 Imaging device 101 System bus 111 Imaging device 112 Analog signal processing part 113 A / D conversion part 114 Digital signal processing part 115 Display part 116 Recording device 117 Vertical driver 118 Timing generator 120 Operation part 121 Shutter button 122 Mode dial 123 Up / Down / Left / Right operation buttons 124 Enter button 125 Cancel button 126 Power switch 130 Control unit 140 Memory (ROM)
150 memory (RAM)
160 Memory (EEPROM)
170 Detector 180 I / F
200 Interchangeable Lens 211 Zoom Lens 212 Zoom Position Detection Unit 221 Focus Lens 222 Focus Lens Drive Motor 231 Aperture 232 Aperture Drive Motor 240 Motor Driver 250 Lens Control Unit 310 Imaging Unit 320 Display Control Unit 330 Display Unit 340 Recording Control Unit 350 Recording Medium 360 Control unit 370 Operation reception unit 380 Interchangeable lens detection unit

Claims (9)

A display control unit for displaying an image generated by the imaging unit on the display unit;
When a specific operation is accepted in a manual focus mode in which a user manually performs focus adjustment, a predetermined area in the image is enlarged and displayed, and when the specific operation is accepted in an auto focus mode in which focus adjustment is automatically performed Is an image pickup apparatus including a control unit that performs control for executing autofocus control.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the specific operation is performed using the same operation member. The operation member is a shutter button,
The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the specific operation is a half-press operation of the shutter button.   The control unit enlarges and displays the predetermined area when a full press operation of the shutter button is accepted in the manual focus mode, and records an image generated by the imaging unit at the timing of the full press operation The image pickup apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the enlarged display is continuously performed while a half-press operation of the shutter button is accepted after the image is recorded. The operation member is a shutter button,
The specific operation is a full press operation of the shutter button,
The control unit displays the predetermined area in an enlarged manner when the full press operation of the shutter button is accepted in the manual focus mode, and when the full press operation of the shutter button is accepted again after the enlarged display. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein control is performed to record an image generated by the imaging unit on a recording medium at the timing of the full-press operation.   The control unit performs control for canceling the enlarged display and displaying the original image on the display unit when the specific operation is not accepted after the predetermined area is enlarged and displayed. Item 2. The imaging device according to Item 1. The imaging device is an imaging device to which an interchangeable lens can be attached,
When a manual focus lens is attached as the interchangeable lens, the manual focus mode is set,
The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the autofocus mode is set when an autofocus lens is attached as the interchangeable lens. A display procedure for displaying an image generated by the imaging unit on the display unit;
When a specific operation is accepted in a manual focus mode in which a user manually performs focus adjustment, a predetermined area in the image is enlarged and displayed, and when the specific operation is accepted in an auto focus mode in which focus adjustment is automatically performed Is a control method of an imaging apparatus comprising a control procedure for executing autofocus control. A display procedure for displaying an image generated by the imaging unit on the display unit;
When a specific operation is accepted in a manual focus mode in which a user manually performs focus adjustment, a predetermined area in the image is enlarged and displayed, and when the specific operation is accepted in an auto focus mode in which focus adjustment is automatically performed Is a program that causes a computer to execute control procedures for executing autofocus control.

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