JP4920175B2 - PHOTOGRAPHIC PRINT DEVICE, PHOTOGRAPHIC PRINT DEVICE CONTROL METHOD, PHOTOGRAPHIC PRINT DEVICE CONTROL PROGRAM, AND COMPUTER READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a photographic printing apparatus that takes a photograph of a user and prints the photograph after combining it with a background image, a method for controlling the photographic printing apparatus, a control program for the photographic printing apparatus, and a computer The present invention relates to a readable recording medium.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a recreational facility such as a game center, a photographic printing apparatus (photo image editing and printing apparatus, photographic seal machine) that takes a photograph of a user and combines the photograph with a background image and outputs it as a seal print ) Is installed and is gaining popularity. In this photography printing apparatus, for example, after a coin is inserted, the user draws a favorite color from a background curtain installed in the casing to change the background, and further, for effecting whitening and the like By selecting the various lighting effects prepared in the above, there are some that can perform high-quality shooting using the performance of a high-resolution CCD (Charge Coupled Device) camera. In addition, a user can write or edit an arbitrary or predetermined character, figure, etc. with a pen, finger, stamp, etc. on the captured image displayed on the liquid crystal panel, thereby creating a unique edited image. There is a photographic printing apparatus that creates and prints it on sticker paper or the like.

  In such a photo print photographing apparatus, it is possible to automatically detect whether or not the subject is in an appropriate position and range by a sensor and to combine and output an image photographed at an appropriate position with another image. There are some (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In addition, there is a camera that enables shooting with a variety of camera angles using a plurality of cameras, and allows a subject to take a picture while checking his / her appearance (see, for example, Patent Document 2). Further, for example, in a photographic printing apparatus that takes a photograph of an illumination, there is a photographic guide that facilitates accurate positioning by the user (see, for example, Patent Document 3), and the user stands at the imaging position. The position of the camera is automatically detected, and the camera position is moved so that the user has a preferable position (see, for example, Patent Document 4).

Such photography printing devices are mostly used by high school girls and play important communication with cell phones and emails, such as playing with friends and exchanging photo stickers after school and on holidays. It is one. Furthermore, there are many users who use it many times a day. For this reason, it is often tired of a uniform one that simply takes a picture of the face and the whole body. Therefore, in addition to conventional play such as shooting and image editing, new play is required.
JP 2000-201348 A (publication date July 18, 2000) JP 2001-296600 A (publication date October 28, 2001) JP 2003-21859 A (publication date January 24, 2003) Patent No. 2922491 (issued July 26, 1999) JP 2000-152138 A (publication date May 30, 2000)

  The above-described photography printing apparatus allows the camera device to move left and right, up and down, and back and forth when taking a predetermined range of an image displayed on an image display unit such as a touch panel when photographing. In addition, photography was performed using a zoom mechanism in the camera device. For this reason, mechanical elements in the camera increase, leading to an increase in manufacturing cost.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problem, and can control a photographic printing apparatus and a photographic printing apparatus that can create a photographic image within a predetermined range without using a complicated mechanism of the camera apparatus. A method, a control program for a photographic printing apparatus, and a computer-readable recording medium.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, a photography printing apparatus according to the present invention includes a photographing unit that photographs a subject, an image display unit that displays a moving image captured by the photographing unit in real time, and the photographing unit. An image output unit that outputs an image formed on the basis of a photographed image taken by the image output unit to a print medium, wherein the range designation designates a predetermined range in the image display unit And a photographed image creation means for creating an image of the designated range designated by the range designation means as the photographed image.

  In addition, in order to solve the above problems, a control method for a photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention includes a photographing unit that photographs a subject, and an image display unit that displays a moving image photographed by the photographing unit in real time. And a control method for a photographic printing apparatus comprising: an image output unit that outputs an image formed based on a photographed image photographed by the photographing unit to a print medium, wherein the image display unit includes: It includes a range designating step for designating a predetermined range, and a photographed image producing step for creating an image of the designated range designated in the range designating step as the photographed image.

  According to the configuration and the method described above, it is possible to create a captured image only in a specified range, not a captured image of the entire image display unit. Here, the image display unit refers to a so-called screen in an image display device that displays a moving image captured by the imaging unit in real time.

  In a conventional photo printing apparatus, when it is desired to create a photographed image within a predetermined range, the photographing unit can be moved left and right, up and down, and back and forth. I was going. However, according to the present invention, it is possible to create a photographed image in a specified range without using such a complicated mechanism of the photographing unit. As a result, the cost of mechanical elements in the photographing unit can be reduced. In addition, there is an effect that it is possible to provide a photographing method that is not available in the conventional photography printing apparatus.

  In addition, in the case where an enlarged photographed image is obtained by approaching the photographing unit, the effect of illumination has been reduced in the past, but according to the above configuration, it was enlarged without causing such a problem. A photographed image can be formed.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the photography printing apparatus according to the present invention further includes display control means for displaying the designated range designated by the range designation means so as to be superimposed on the moving image displayed on the image display unit. Also good.

  In addition to the above method, the control method of the photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention includes a display for displaying the specified range specified in the range specifying step so as to be superimposed on the moving image displayed on the image display unit. A control step may be included.

  According to the above configuration and method, the designated range can be displayed superimposed on the moving image. Therefore, the user can take a picture of the specified range while confirming a moving image that is shot by the shooting unit and displayed in real time on the image display unit, that is, a live view screen.

  In the photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the display control means may enlarge an image within the specified range and display it on the image display unit.

  In addition to the above method, the control method of the photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention may enlarge the image within the designated range and display it on the image display unit in the display control step.

  According to the above configuration and method, the image within the specified range is enlarged and displayed on the image display unit, so that the user can enlarge and check the created captured image with the live view image. Therefore, the user can change the facial expression and posture by looking at the live view image, so that the user can change the facial expression and the posture with fine details and take a picture.

  In the photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the range specifying means may specify the range by changing the range on the image display unit.

  In addition to the above method, the control method of the photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention may be specified by moving the range on the image display unit in the range specifying step.

  According to the above configuration and method, the designated range in which the captured image is created moves. For example, when the designated range moves randomly, the user acquires an unexpected captured image. Therefore, it is possible to provide the user with fun photography as well as simple photography. Therefore, it can lead to customer expansion.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the photography printing apparatus according to the present invention includes an input unit that receives a user operation by a user and acquires information, and the range specifying unit includes a range based on information acquired by the input unit. May be specified.

  Further, in addition to the above method, the photo printing apparatus according to the present invention includes an input unit that receives a user operation by a user and acquires information, and in the range specifying step, The range may be specified based on the information acquired by the input unit.

  According to the above configuration and method, the user can easily specify a range from the input unit. Also, the user can specify a favorite range using the input unit while checking the live view screen. Therefore, the user can acquire an image in a favorite range as a captured image.

  The photography printing apparatus may be realized by a computer. In this case, a control program for the photography printing apparatus that causes the photography printing apparatus to be realized by the computer by operating the computer as each of the above means, In addition, a computer-readable recording medium that records a control program for the photography printing apparatus also falls within the scope of the present invention.

  According to these structures, the same operation effect as the said photography printing apparatus can be implement | achieved by making a computer read and execute the control program of photography photography printing apparatus.

  In the photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention, as described above, the control unit creates a range designation unit for designating a predetermined range in the image display unit, and a photographic image in the designated range designated by the range designation unit. Photographed image creating means.

  According to the above configuration, it is possible to create a captured image only in the range designated by the range designating unit, not the captured image of the entire image display unit. Therefore, a photographed image in a specified range can be created without using a complicated mechanism of the photographing unit. As a result, the cost of mechanical elements in the photographing unit can be reduced. In addition, there is an effect that it is possible to provide a photographing method that is not available in the conventional photography printing apparatus.

  In addition, in the case where an enlarged photographed image is obtained by approaching the photographing unit, the effect of illumination has been reduced in the past, but according to the above configuration, it was enlarged without causing such a problem. A photographed image can be formed.

  In addition, the control method for the photographic printing apparatus, the control program for the photographic printing apparatus, and the computer-readable recording medium according to the present invention can realize the same effect.

[Embodiment 1]
An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. The photography printing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment has a function for photographing a user's photograph (photographing function), a function for allowing a user to edit graffiti etc. on the photographed photograph (editing function), and editing. It has a function (printing function) for printing a printed image. Note that all these functions are not essential, and for example, a configuration in which the editing function is omitted may be employed.

(Appearance structure of photo printing device)
First, the external appearance of the photographic printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the photographic printing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, an apparatus main body 3 including a camera unit (photographing unit) 2 that photographs a user as a subject and a background sheet 4 serving as a background of the subject are provided. In addition, the periphery and upper part from the apparatus main body 3 to the background sheet 4 are covered with a light-shielding curtain that blocks light from the outside. As a result, a shooting space 5 for taking a photograph of the user is formed. Although the photography printing apparatus 1 is also subjected to editing processing in the photographing space 5, the photographing space and the space for editing processing may be provided separately.

  The apparatus main body 3 is provided with a camera unit 2, a touch panel (image display unit) 6, a coin insertion slot 7, a coin return slot 8, and a print discharge slot 9 for discharging a print after photographing. . Further, the apparatus main body 3 includes a fluorescent lamp, a strobe lamp, a reflector (not shown) because they are installed in the apparatus main body 3, and a diffusion plate 11a. 11b is deployed. In addition, the structure of the illuminating device 10 is not limited to the above. Touch pens 12a and 12b are provided near the touch panel. A speaker (not shown) is provided in the shooting space 5.

  Further, the photographic printing apparatus 1 may be provided with a lamp or the like on the outside for displaying that the user is in the photographic space 5 toward the outside of the photographic space 5. In addition, when a luggage storage space, a luggage hook, or the like is provided in the photographing space 5, the user can put the luggage in the field of view, and can prevent the deposit. In addition, the arrangement position of the installation object is not limited to that in the drawing.

  The touch panel 6 is configured by providing a touch sensor on a display surface such as a flat panel display such as a liquid crystal display element or a CRT (cathode ray tube). On the touch panel 6, various messages and images in the photographing process and the editing process are displayed. Specifically, the touch panel 6 includes a demonstration screen, an opening screen, a billing process instruction screen, messages and images such as various operation contents in shooting processing and editing processing, images to be edited during image editing processing such as graffiti, and various types of images. Editing tools etc. are displayed. In addition, a moving image at the time of shooting is displayed. Thereby, a user who takes a shooting pose toward the camera unit 2 can visually recognize his / her appearance in real time, and can perform a shooting process while confirming his / her pose.

  In the vicinity of the touch panel 6 (left and right of the touch panel 6 in FIG. 2), touch pens 12a and 12b are provided. The user can select a button to be displayed according to the progress of the process or draw an image such as a graffiti by bringing the touch pens 12a and 12b into contact with the touch panel 6. Here, as shown in FIG. 2, since two touch pens 12a and 12b are installed in the apparatus main body 3, two users can simultaneously input graffiti processing and the like.

  Here, one touch panel 6 is provided for shooting processing and editing processing, but may be provided separately.

  The coin slot 7 is an slot for a user to insert a predetermined amount of coins as a play fee. The coin return port 8 is a return port for returning coins to the user when a change occurs or when the coin is reset after the coin is inserted. Further, a coin container (not shown) for storing coins collected from the user is provided inside the apparatus main body 3.

  The print discharge port 9 is a place where a photographic print paper on which an image is printed by a printer (output means) 35 described later is discharged after the photographing process and the editing process are finished.

  The background sheet 4 provides a background for shooting. The background sheet 4 may be configured to be switchable. That is, during the shooting process, the background sheet 4 may be switched so that the background in shooting can be produced according to the user's preference. In that case, for example, a plurality of background sheets 4 of various colors or various patterns or patterns are prepared at a position as a background, and by switching these, a background according to the user's preference can be produced. Make it possible. The background sheet 4 may be switched by machine control by a motor, that is, may be a motor type, or may be switched by a user turning or sliding, that is, a manual type. .

  A fluorescent lamp (not shown) functions as illumination at the time of photographing, and also functions as illumination of the photographing space 5 at normal time. Specifically, the fluorescent lamp secures a light amount in a live view taken by the camera unit 2 at the time of photographing, that is, a light amount in a period during which the user considers a composition and a pose for photographing. At the same time, for example, a lighting space is produced by lighting such as giving the user the impression that “a good photo can be taken”. Here, the fluorescent lamps are arranged on both sides of the camera unit 2 in the apparatus main body 3.

  A strobe lamp (not shown) functions as a photographic flashlight at the time of shooting, and is disposed on both sides of the camera unit 2 in the apparatus main body 3.

  The reflection plate (not shown) functions to reflect light from a fluorescent lamp or strobe lamp, and is installed so as to guide the light toward the diffusion plates 11a and 11b. The reflecting plate may have a reflecting surface made of, for example, stainless steel, and may have any shape that allows light to be collected on the diffusion plates 11a and 11b.

  The diffusing plates 11 a and 11 b function to diffuse the light reflected by the reflecting plate and emit it to the imaging space 5. The diffusion plates 11a and 11b are made of, for example, a thin milky white acrylic plate. As the shape, in the present embodiment, the light emitting surface has a substantially flat shape and is a rectangle that is long in the vertical direction.

  In addition, as needed, the light quantity from the illuminating device 10 may change, or the illumination direction may be changed.

  A speaker (not shown) outputs guidance voices and sound effects for various operations, back ground music (BGM), and the like to the user.

(Functional description of photo printing device)
Next, the functional configuration of the photography printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to the block diagram shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, in addition to the camera unit 2, the background sheet 4, the touch panel 6, the touch pens 12 a and 12 b, and the lighting device 10, the photography printing apparatus 1 includes a control device 20, a storage device 30, and an external disk. A drive 31, a power supply device 32, a charge processing unit 33, an ID tag reader / writer 34, a printer (image output unit) 35, and a print paper unit 40 are provided.

  The touch panel 6 includes an image display unit 61 that is a screen for displaying still images, moving images, character information, and the like, and an input unit 62 that receives user operation input and acquires information. The input unit 62 is used to accept a user's operation input, and is displayed on the touch panel 6 as an operation button, for example. As described above, the input unit 62 may be provided so as to be displayed on the touch panel 6, but may be provided outside the touch panel as a push button, for example.

  The control device 20 comprehensively controls the operations of the various configurations described above in the photo printing apparatus 1. The control device 20 includes a range designating unit (range designating unit) 21 that determines an imaging range in the image display unit 61, a display control unit (display control unit) 22 that performs overall control of display on the touch panel 6, and a moving image and a still image. A photographing processing section (captured image creating means) 23 for performing photographing processing in the above-mentioned photographing, and a number recognition section (number recognition means) 24 for performing the number detection processing described below.

  The range designating unit 21 designates a predetermined range in the image display unit 61 on the touch panel 6, and the imaging processing unit 23 creates an image displayed in the designated range designated by the range designating unit 21 as a captured image. As a result, it is possible to create a captured image only in the range designated by the range designating unit, not the captured image of the entire image display unit 61. Therefore, a photographed image in a specified range can be created without using a complicated mechanism of the photographing unit. Therefore, the cost of mechanical elements in the camera unit 2 can be reduced. In addition, it is possible to provide a photographing method that is not available in the conventional photography printing apparatus. In addition, in the case where an enlarged photographed image is obtained by approaching the camera unit 2, the effect of illumination may be reduced. However, according to the above configuration, an enlarged photograph is taken without causing such a problem. An image can be formed.

  A detailed description of the operations of the range specifying unit 21, the display control unit 22, the imaging processing unit 23, and the number of people recognition unit 24 in the control device 20 will be described later.

  The control device 20 is configured by, for example, a PC (Personal Computer) -based computer. And operation control of various composition is performed by making a computer run a control program. This program may be in the form of reading and using what is recorded on a removable medium such as a CD-ROM, or may be in the form of reading and using what is installed on a hard disk or the like. Further, when the control device 20 is connected to a communication network such as the Internet, a form in which the program is downloaded via the communication network, installed on a hard disk, and the like can be considered.

  The storage device 30 is configured by a nonvolatile storage device such as a hard disk. The contents stored in the storage device 30 include the above-described control program, OS (operating system) program, and other various programs, operation setting values in the camera unit 2, imaged images and image data of edited images, and the like. It is done. Examples of operation setting values in the camera unit 2 include white balance values set at the time of shipment of the apparatus and maintenance, and various parameter values related to image processing when adjusting the brightness and darkness of a captured image.

  The external disk drive 31 is a drive device that reads from and writes to an external disk such as a CD-ROM, CD-R, DVD-ROM, or DVD-RAM. Instead of the external disk drive 31, a semiconductor memory card reader / writer or the like may be used. Note that this external disk drive 31 may operate as a storage device.

  The power supply device 32 is for supplying power to the above-described various components in the photographic printing apparatus 1.

  The billing processing unit 33 controls the billing from the curing inlet 7, the return processing from the curing return port 8, and the like, and is a block that performs processing related to billing collected from the user. The control device 20 controls the operation for the corresponding user according to the charging status by the charging processing unit 20.

  The ID tag reader / writer 34 and the printer 35 constitute a printer unit, and a print paper (print medium) 42 and an ID tag 41 serving as a photo print output medium are set as a print paper unit 40 to the printer unit. It has come to be delivered at.

  When image data to be output is sent from the control device 20, the printer 35 prints on the print paper 42 based on the image data. For example, a sublimation printer is used as the printer 35. When a sublimation type printer is used, a sublimation type ink film is delivered as a set in addition to the print paper 42 and the ID tag 41.

  The ID tag reader / writer 34 reads out various identification information recorded in the ID tag 41 and outputs it to the control device 20. The ID tag 51 is configured by an IC chip having a memory function. Examples of the identification information include a unique ID, the number of sheets, a sheet type, and ink-specific color information (when an ink film is a set).

  Based on the identification information read by the ID tag reader / writer 34, the control device 20 determines whether the mounted print paper 42 and the ink film can be used in the photography printing apparatus 1, and can be used. The printer 35 can be operated only in some cases. That is, it is set so that only the print paper 42 and the ink film specified in the photo printing apparatus 1 can be used.

  In addition, by counting down the number of sheets each time the print sheet 42 is used based on the sheet number information recorded in the ID tag 41, the remaining number of sheets can be grasped. Therefore, if the configuration is such that a warning is given by a display means when the remaining number of sheets has been reduced, it is possible to avoid a problem such as running out of sheets during use by the user. Become. When counting down the number of sheets, the sheet number information recorded in the ID tag 41 is also rewritten. As a result, when the paper is used up, the paper number information recorded in the ID tag 41 is also zero, and the ID tag 41 can be invalidated.

  Further, by reading out the paper type information recorded in the ID tag 41 and the color information specific to the ink, and correcting the color component of the image data in consideration of these, an accurate image on the paper or the ink film is obtained. Output can be performed.

  As the ID tag 41, there are a non-contact type ID tag capable of wireless data communication and a contact type ID tag provided with a terminal. The ID tag reader / writer 34 is either one of these or It corresponds to both.

  In the above example, the ID tag is used to check whether the print paper can be used. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the print paper and the ink film are packed. The configuration may be such that confirmation is performed using a barcode printed on a packing material or the like. However, when a barcode is used, there are problems that the amount of information that can be included is small and that information cannot be rewritten by counting down the number of sheets, for example.

  The printed paper 42 may be a paper sheet which is a normal paper-like medium, or a seal sheet made up of an adhesive sheet and a release sheet attached to the adhesive surface of the adhesive seal. May be.

(Overall process flow)
Next, the flow of processing in the photography printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. First, in step 1 (hereinafter referred to as S1), it is confirmed whether or not coins are inserted. Here, if it is confirmed that there is a coin inserted from the coin slot 7 by the user (YES in S1), the process proceeds to the next S2. Here, when the insertion of coins cannot be confirmed (NO in S1), waiting for the insertion of coins is awaited. That is, the customer waiting state is maintained. In this customer waiting state, for example, a touch panel 6 screen or the like may be displayed.

  In S2, a photographing process is performed. In this photographing process, selection of the background sheet 4 and actual photographing process are performed. Here, while confirming the live view image displayed on the image display unit 61, the user considers his / her standing position, pose, and the like, and as soon as preparation is completed, shooting is performed by giving a shooting start instruction. This photographing process will be described in detail later.

  In S3, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of shooting in S2 exceeds a set time (here, 2 minutes). If not exceeded (NO in S3), the photographing process in S2 is repeated. Note that here, the shooting process is set to end when the elapsed time exceeds 2 minutes. However, for example, when the number of shots reaches the cumulative limit or the user gives an instruction to end the shooting process. In this case, the photographing process may be terminated. Here, the image generated by the photographing process is stored in the storage device 30.

  If it is confirmed in S3 that the elapsed time has exceeded 2 minutes (YES in S3), the process proceeds to S4.

  In S4, an editing process is performed. The display control unit 22 reads an image to be edited from the storage device 30, that is, an image created by shooting processing (a shot image of a specified range), and generates an image to be edited, that is, an image to be edited, by shooting processing. The displayed image is displayed. The touch pen 12a. Editing processing such as graffiti is performed using 12b. In this image, for example, a selection area of tools for performing an editing process may be displayed. Examples of the tools include a plurality of types of pens and their colors, an eraser, and a plurality of stamps.

  In addition, a selection image for selecting an image to be edited may be displayed on the image to be edited. The user may be able to switch the image displayed as the editing target in the center by touching the selected image with the touch pens 12a and 12b. Note that this selected image corresponds to an image at the time of each shooting when a plurality of shootings are performed in the above shooting process.

  In S5, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of editing in S4 has exceeded a set time (here, 2 minutes). If not exceeded (NO in S5), the process returns to S4 to continue the editing process. In this example, the shooting process is set to end when the elapsed time exceeds 2 minutes. However, for example, when the user gives an instruction to end the editing process, the editing process is ended. It may be like this. If there is a selected image that has not been subjected to editing processing at the time when this elapsed time reaches a certain time, the touch panel 6 may display that there is “forgetting graffiti” image data. Alternatively, the time for the editing process is divided by the number of images to be edited to be the time given to each image, and every time the time given to each image elapses, “Do you want to doodle the next image?” Such a prompt may be displayed on the image display unit 61. With the display as described above, the user can prevent forgetting the editing process for all images. When the editing process by the user is completed, the edited image is arranged on the print paper 42 in any arrangement and in any number of divisions based on a user instruction or automatically. It may be determined whether to print.

  If it is confirmed in S5 that the elapsed time has exceeded 2 minutes (YES in S5), the process proceeds to S6.

  In S6, a printing process is performed. The printer 35 outputs an image based on the image data edited in S4 to the print paper 42, and the print paper 42 is discharged from the print discharge port 9.

  With the above sequence, a series of operations in the photographic printing apparatus 1 is completed.

  In the photography printing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the photography range of the touch panel 6 can be changed in the photography processing of S2. This will be described in detail below using an example.

Example 1
In this embodiment, the detailed operation of the photographic printing apparatus 1 in the photographing process will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the photographing process is started, a preview image is displayed on the image display unit 61 of the touch panel 6 in S111. Here, the preview screen is a captured moving image including a user captured by the camera unit 2 before taking a photograph, that is, a so-called live view image. Here, the preview image is a synthesized moving image obtained by synthesizing a captured moving image captured by the camera unit 2 and a decorative moving image that becomes a foreshadow or background to the captured moving image. There may be. Then, the process proceeds to S112.

  In S112, the display control unit 22 causes the image display unit 61 to display a trimming frame for designating a trimming position at the default position. Note that the trimming position is a range in which a captured image (still image) is created when taking a picture. A frame for specifying the trimming position is referred to as a trimming frame. An example of the trimming frame displayed on the image display unit 61 is shown in FIG. The shape of the trimming frame 100 and the size with respect to the image display unit 61 are not limited to those shown in FIG. Then, the process proceeds to S113.

  In S113, the display control unit 22 displays a message prompting the user to determine the trimming position on the image display unit 61. For example, a message such as “Press the operation button to determine the desired shooting range!” Is displayed. Then, the process proceeds to S114.

  In S114, the trimming position is changed by the user, and the display of the trimming frame 100 is changed accordingly. The user gives an instruction to change the trimming position by an operation from the input unit 62, and the range specifying unit 21 changes the trimming position. The display control unit 22 displays the trimming frame 100 on the touch panel 6 based on the changed trimming position information. With these operations, the user can manually move the trimming frame 100 on the touch panel 6.

  For example, the touch panel 6 on which the trimming frame 100 is displayed may be as shown in FIG. In the illustrated example, the user can move the trimming frame 100 left and right and up and down using an operation button (movement button 62a) which is an input unit displayed on the touch panel 6. . In FIG. 5, it is assumed that a square surrounded by a dotted line is a trimming frame before movement, and a square surrounded by a solid line is a trimming frame 100 after movement.

  On the touch panel 6, an operation button (size change button 62b) for changing the size capable of changing the size of the trimming frame 100 is provided. For example, each time the size change button 62b is pressed down, the trimming frame 100 is displayed larger, and when the trimming frame 100 reaches a predetermined maximum size, the trimming frame 100 is changed to a predetermined minimum size. It only has to be like this. This is a size change in which either the vertical or horizontal width remains the same, and the other width increases (vertically or horizontally), or the aspect ratio remains the same and increases. The size may change as you go. The numbers in the circles shown in FIG. 5 indicate how many seconds it takes to take a picture, and the time to take a picture may be displayed on the touch panel 6 in this way.

  Further, a plurality of operation buttons may be provided, and a plurality of users may be able to move the trimming frame 100 or change the size of the trimming frame 100 using these buttons. Also, the shape of the trimming frame may be changed to, for example, a vertically long shape, a horizontally long shape, a star shape, or a round shape by a user operation.

  In S115, the input unit 62 determines whether or not information for determining the trimming position has been acquired. That is, it is determined here whether or not an operation button for determining the trimming position has been pressed by the user. If it is determined that the operation button has been pressed (YES in S115), the process proceeds to S117. If it is determined that the operation button is not depressed (NO in S115), the process proceeds to S116.

  In S116, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time exceeds a certain time (here, for example, 10 seconds). If the elapsed time does not exceed 10 seconds (NO in S116), the process returns to S112. That is, in this embodiment, the user can determine the trimming position within 10 seconds. If it is determined in S116 that the elapsed time has exceeded 10 seconds (YES in S116), the process proceeds to S117.

  In S117, the range specifying unit 21 sets the trimming position determined by the user in S115 (the default trimming position if not determined) to the position of the trimming frame 100 displayed on the image display unit 61 at this time. Fix it. Then, the information on the fixed trimming position is sent to the photographing processing unit 23. Then, the process proceeds to S118.

  In S118, it is determined whether the input unit 62 has acquired information for taking a picture. That is, here, it is determined whether or not an operation button (photographing button) for taking a picture is depressed by the user. If it is determined that the shooting button has been pressed (YES in S118), the process proceeds to S120. If it is determined that the shooting button has not been pressed (NO in S118), the process proceeds to S119.

  In S119, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time after the trimming position is fixed exceeds a certain time (here, 10 seconds). If it is determined that it has exceeded 10 seconds (YES in S119), the process proceeds to S120. If it is determined that 10 seconds has not been exceeded (NO in S119), the process returns to S118. That is, photography is started within 10 seconds after the trimming position is fixed.

  In S120, the camera unit 2 takes a picture. In this photography, the photography processing unit 23 creates a photographed image. At that time, an image in the trimming frame 100 is created as a captured image. This may be done by photographing the entire image reflected in the camera unit 2 and creating the image in the trimming frame 100 as a photographed image. That is, here, digital zoom is performed. Alternatively, an image in the trimming frame 100 may be captured and used as a captured image. When taking an image in the latter trimming frame 100, it is necessary to move the camera unit 2 so as to zoom into the trimming frame 100, but this is not necessary in the case of the former digital zoom. Therefore, the digital zoom does not require a member or device for moving the camera unit 2 and can lead to cost reduction of the device.

  In S121, the captured image created in S120 is stored in the storage device 30 (or the external disk drive 31). Then, the process proceeds to S122.

  In S122, it is determined whether or not the number of captured images stored in the storage device 30 exceeds a certain number (eight here). If it is determined that it has been exceeded (YES in S122), the imaging process is terminated. If it is determined that the number does not exceed eight (NO in S122), the process proceeds to S123.

  In S123, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of shooting exceeds a set time (here, 2 minutes). If not exceeded (NO in S122), the fixing of the trimming position is released in S124, and the process is repeated from the display of the preview screen in S1. If it is confirmed in S123 that the elapsed time has exceeded 2 minutes (YES in S123), the photographing process is terminated. Note that, here, the shooting process is set to end when the number of shot images reaches 8 or the elapsed time exceeds 2 minutes. For example, the user ends the shooting process. The imaging process may be terminated when the instruction is issued.

  The photographing process is performed as described above. In the present embodiment, the trimming position can be determined by the user, but the trimming position may be fixed in advance and cannot be changed. That is, S113 to S116 and S124 may not be included in the flow described above. In addition, when the trimming position is fixed in advance as described above, the display control unit 22 may not display the trimming position on the image display unit 61 (that is, even if S112 is not present).

  When the trimming position is fixed in S117, the display control unit 22 causes the image display unit 61 to display an enlarged image of the image in the trimming frame 100 and the camera according to the zoom-in / zoom-out instruction from the operation button by the user. The entire moving image captured by the unit 2 may be displayed alternately.

  Further, for example, the user may input the number of people before the photographing process starts, and the size of the trimming frame may be determined from the division pattern. This will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the input unit 62 acquires information on the number of people, the display control unit 22 displays some division patterns according to the number of people on the image display unit 61, and allows the user to select a favorite one from the division patterns. Then, the display control unit 22 causes the image display unit 61 to display a trimming frame that matches the division pattern selected by the user. Here, the display position of the trimming frame may be fixed, or may be changed by the user. Then, a photograph is taken by the camera unit 2, and the photographing processing unit 23 creates a photographed image in the trimming frame 100. Then, the editing process and the printing process are performed, and the print paper divided by the division pattern selected by the user is output. By such processing, it is possible to provide a photographic print having a large number of divisions of a user's favorite pattern. Examples of the photographic print having a large number of divisions of the user's favorite pattern include those shown in FIGS. 7 (a) to 7 (d). In such a photo print with a large number of vertical divisions, it corresponds to many images in which the whole body is photographed as shown in FIG. 7A, or an unnecessary range is cut out as shown in FIG. 7B. Many images can be handled. Also, in the case of a photo print with a large number of horizontally long divisions as shown in FIG. 7C, when only the face of the subject is photographed, the face is photographed without being reduced even when a large number of people are lined up. Can be printed. In addition, as shown in FIG. 7D, when the divided shape is a triangle or a circle, the shape is unique, so that it is possible to catch an eye when attaching a photographic print to a notebook or the like. In the editing process, it is possible to create a fun image using the margin. Further, within the range specified by the trimming frame 100, the background image may be extracted (chroma processing) and only the subject may be displayed. The background may be blue or white for normal blackboard processing.

  In addition, for example, the image display unit 61 before photographing may be displayed with a lens effect on the image in the range designated by the frame and may be partially enlarged (or reduced) or the image in the frame may be displayed in reverse. An image that has been subjected to various processing processes may be displayed. This will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 8A, an operation button (reverse range designation button 62c) for designating a range (reverse range) for reversing the image displayed on the image display unit 61, and reversal of an image within the reversal range. An operation button (reverse button 62d) is provided. In addition, an operation button (lens effect button) for designating a range (lens effect range) in which a lens effect can be applied to an image within the designated range of the image displayed on the image display unit 61, a lens effect An operation button (size changing bar 62f) for determining the size to be enlarged (or reduced) is provided.

  When the user reverses an image in a certain range, the touch pen 12a (or 12b) is used to specify the reverse range designation button 62c with a click, and the range to be reversed is displayed on the touch panel 6 as shown in FIG. Specify the inversion range by enclosing it with. Then, as shown in FIG. 8D, the inversion range is determined by moving the touch pen 12a (or 12b) away from the touch panel 6. Here, as an example, it is assumed that the face portion of the right girl in FIG. Here, it is surrounded by a square, but may be surrounded by another shape. Further, in order to change the inversion range, as shown in FIG. 8D, the touch pen 12a (or 12b) is brought into contact with the inversion range on the touch panel 6 and moved (dragged) to the position to be changed. Thus, the inversion range can be changed. Then, when the user clicks the reverse button 62d, the image within the reverse range is reversed. That is, the face portion of the right girl is inverted as shown in FIG.

  In this way, it is possible to provide a user with an interesting image that has been reversed using image processing before taking a picture.

  When the user wants to add a lens effect to an image in a certain range, the lens effect button 62e is designated with a click using the touch pen 12a (or 12b), and the lens as shown in FIG. The lens effect range is specified by enclosing the range where the effect is to be applied on the touch panel 6. Then, as shown in FIG. 8D, the lens effect range is determined by moving the touch pen 12 a away from the touch panel 6. Here, as an example, it is assumed that the face portion of the girl on the left in FIG. Here, it is surrounded by a circle, but it may be surrounded by another shape. If the lens effect range is to be changed, as shown in FIG. 8D, the touch pen 12a (or 12b) is brought into contact with the lens effect range on the touch panel 6 and moved to the position to be changed (dragged). ), The lens effect range can be changed. Then, when the user operates the size change bar 62f, the image within the lens effect range is displayed in an enlarged or reduced manner. Note that FIG. 8A is an example in which the face portion of the girl on the left is enlarged and displayed due to the lens effect.

  In this way, by partially enlarging (or reducing) the image with a lens effect, distortion like a fisheye lens can be given to an image, and distortion can be changed. Therefore, it is possible to provide a user with an interesting image using image processing before taking a picture.

  In addition, although the display control part 22 shall perform the process in said display, you may perform another process part.

  As described above, the specified range is determined by the frame, and the processing performed on the image within the frame is not limited to the reversal process or the lens effect, but may be other image processes. Good.

  Another example relating to the display of an image processed before photographing will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 9A, a predetermined range may be designated, and the faces included in this range may be recognized so that the entire faces of the subjects are switched and displayed. For example, the face may be recognized as one person's face by detecting the nose and the eyes sandwiching it. If it is within a predetermined range, it is sufficient that the face can be recognized even if the subject moves. Such a face recognition method is merely an example, and the recognition method is not limited thereto. Here, the faces of two people are recognized and replaced with each other, but, for example, three or more faces may be recognized and replaced at random. Further, as shown in FIG. 9B, a predetermined range may be designated, and the eyes within the range may be exchanged and displayed. In this case, the recognition of the eyes may be recognized as an eye on one face by detecting, for example, the nose and the eyes sandwiching the nose. If it is within a predetermined range, it is only necessary to be able to recognize eyes even if the subject moves. Such an eye recognition method is merely an example, and the recognition method is not limited thereto. Here, the eyes of two people are recognized and switched to each other, but for example, the eyes of three or more people may be recognized and switched at random. In addition, as shown in FIG. 9C, a predetermined range is specified, and by recognizing a face included in this range, the right half of the recognized face can be highlighted and displayed on the portion corresponding to the left half of the face. Good. Alternatively, the left half face may be highlighted on the right half. That is, a symmetrical face is displayed around the nose. The face recognition method may be the same as described above. In addition, although the display control part 22 shall also perform the process process in said display, another process part may perform.

  Further, the processing before photographing described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9 is merely an example, and is not limited to the above.

(Example 2)
In this embodiment, the detailed operation of the photographic printing apparatus 1 in the photographing process will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the photographing process is started, a preview image is displayed on the image display unit 61 of the touch panel 6 in S211. Here, the preview image is obtained by synthesizing a captured moving image captured by the camera unit 2 and a decorative moving image that is a foreground or background to the captured moving image, and the combined moving image. It may be. Then, the process proceeds to S212.

  In S212, the display control unit 22 causes the image display unit 61 to display the trimming frame 100 for designating the trimming position at the default position. Then, the process proceeds to S213.

  In S213, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the display of the trimming frame 100 has exceeded a certain time (here, 1 second). If it is determined that one second has been exceeded (YES in S213), the process proceeds to S214. If it is determined that it has not exceeded (NO in S213), the process returns to S212. In other words, the trimming frame 100 is displayed at the default position for one second here.

  In S214, a trimming position moving process is performed. This process will be described with reference to FIG. When the process is started, a random number seed is determined in S31, and the process proceeds to S32.

In S32, a trimming display position for displaying the trimming frame 100 in the image display unit 61 is determined. Here, a case where there are eight trimming display positions on the image display unit 61 will be specifically described. Formula variable [trimming display position] = int (rnd () * 8.0) +1
(here,
“Int ()” means a process of converting a decimal number in () to an integer,
“Rnd ()” means a process of generating a uniform random number (decimal value) of 0 to less than 1.0.
Based on the above, the trimming display position is determined. Then, the process proceeds to S33.

  In S33, the trimming frame 100 is displayed at the position determined by the variable [trimming display position] in S32. That is, the trimming display position is changed from the default position to the determined position. By performing the trimming position movement process in this manner, the trimming frame 100 is displayed at any one of the display positions as shown in FIG. In FIG. 12, a square surrounded by a dotted line is a trimming display position, and a trimming frame 100 in which a square surrounded by a solid line is displayed.

  Further, another trimming position movement process as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 13 may be performed. Here, since the flow from the determination of the random number seed to the display of the trimming position (S31 to S33) is the same as the flow described above with reference to FIG. 11, the same step number is added and the description is omitted.

  When the display control unit 22 displays the trimming frame 100 on the image display unit 61 in S33, the process proceeds to S34.

  In S34, it is determined whether or not the zoom-in is being performed, that is, whether or not the image in the trimming frame 100 is being enlarged and displayed. If it is determined that the zoom-in is being performed (YES in S34), the process proceeds to S35 and a zoom-out process is performed. That is, the display is returned from the enlarged display in the trimming frame 100 to the entire display for displaying the entire image taken by the camera unit 2.

  If it is determined in S34 that zoom-in is not in progress (NO in S34), the process proceeds to S36 to perform zoom-in processing. That is, the image within the trimming frame 100 is enlarged and displayed on the image display unit 61. Examples of images in the image display unit 61 are shown in FIGS. FIG. 14A shows a display example when zoom-out processing is performed, and FIG. 14B shows a display example when zoom-in processing is performed.

  The trimming position moving process as described above is performed in S214 as shown in FIG. 14, and the process proceeds to S215. The trimming position movement process described above is an example, and the processing method is not limited to these.

  In S215, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time since the trimming position moving process has started exceeds a certain time (here, 10 seconds). If it is determined that 10 seconds have been exceeded (YES in S215), the process proceeds to S216. If it is determined that it has not exceeded (NO in S215), the process returns to S214, and the trimming position movement process is repeated. That is, for 10 seconds, the trimming frame 100 is displayed with the display position changed by a random number. Alternatively, the trimming frame 100 is displayed by changing the display position with a random number, and zooming in or out of the frame is performed. In the above description, the trimming frame 100 is displayed irregularly using random numbers, that is, from the user's perspective. For example, the trimming frame 100 is displayed regularly in order at a predetermined number of display positions. It may be.

  In S216, the trimming position is fixed. The range specifying unit 21 fixes the trimming position at the position of the trimming frame 100 displayed on the image display unit 61 when 10 seconds have elapsed after the trimming position moving process is started. Then, the information on the fixed trimming position is sent to the photographing processing unit 23. Then, the process proceeds to S120.

  In S120, a photograph is taken. In the present embodiment, photography is started when the trimming position is fixed. Therefore, since the user does not know where the trimming frame 100 that moves randomly will finally be, a picture is taken at an unexpected position. Therefore, the user can not only shoot but also enjoy shooting.

  In the present embodiment, the processing in S120 to S123 is the same as the processing described in Embodiment 1 with reference to FIG.

(Example 3)
In this embodiment, the detailed operation of the photographic printing apparatus 1 in the photographing process will be described with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, the trimming position is determined using a game.

  When the photographing process is started, in S311, the display control unit 22 displays a message on the image display unit 61 for explaining the game, for example, “If a decision button appears, let's press it sooner than your friends!”. To do. Then, the process proceeds to S312.

  In S312, a preview image is displayed on the image display unit 61 of the touch panel 6. In this embodiment, here, two trimming frames 100 are displayed at the default positions together with the preview screen. The two trimming frames 100 are preferably different in color so that they can be identified. Then, the process proceeds to S313.

  In S313, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the display of the trimming frame 100 has exceeded a certain time (here, 5 seconds). If it is determined that it exceeds 5 seconds (YES in S313), the process proceeds to S314. If it is determined that it has not exceeded (NO in S313), the process returns to S312. That is, the trimming frame 100 is displayed for 5 seconds. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, for example, two users can move the trimming frame 100 on the touch panel 6 and the size of the trimming frame 100 can be changed. If the color of the move button 62a which is the input unit 62 and the color of the size change button 62b are matched with the color of the default frame, the user can select which one of the two input units 62 corresponds to which default frame. It is preferable because it is easy to determine whether or not In FIG. 16, it is assumed that a square surrounded by a dotted line is a trimming frame 100 that can be operated by the right operation button, and a square surrounded by a solid line is a trimming frame 100 that can be operated by the left operation button. During the above 5 seconds, the user moves the trimming frame 100 to his / her preferred position or changes the trimming frame 100 to his / her preferred size.

  In S <b> 314, the display control unit 22 displays two determination buttons that are operation buttons for determining the position of the trimming frame 100 on the touch panel 6. Although the display position is not particularly limited, for example, when there are two size change buttons 62b, a user who has operated the size change button 62b and the move button 61a is easy to operate. This determination button may also be matched with the color of the default frame. Then, the process proceeds to S315. Here, the determination button is displayed for use by the user, but the determination button as the input unit 62 is displayed on the touch panel 6 from the beginning, and can be used in S314. The input unit may accept input.

In S315, it is determined whether or not the user presses the enter button. If it is determined that the enter button has been pressed (YES in S315), the process proceeds to S317. Here, the input unit 62 accepts an input from the one of the two determination buttons that has been pushed down first. That is, in this embodiment, a game characteristic is provided in which the trimming frame 100 of the two users who presses the decision button earlier is used for shooting.
If it is determined that the enter button has not been pressed (NO in S315), the process proceeds to S316.

  In S316, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of the preview screen display has exceeded a certain time (here, 10 seconds). If it is determined that it has exceeded 10 seconds (YES in S316), the process proceeds to S317. If it is determined that it has not exceeded (NO in S316), the process returns to S312.

  In S317, the trimming position is fixed. The range designation unit 21 fixes the trimming position to the display position of the trimming frame 100 determined by the user operating the determination button. If the OK button is not pressed down, the trimming position is fixed at the default position. In either case, the information of the fixed trimming position is sent to the photographing processing unit 23, and the process proceeds to S318.

  In S318, the determination button is not displayed on the touch panel 6. Alternatively, semi-transparent display may be used to make it impossible to use the enter button on the touch panel 6, that is, input from the enter button may not be accepted. Then, the process proceeds to S118.

  In the present embodiment, the processes in S118 to S124 are the same as those described with reference to FIG. 4 in the first embodiment, and therefore the same step numbers are assigned and description thereof is omitted.

  In this embodiment, since shooting is performed as a battle-type game, not only mere photography but also new play can be added. The contents of the game described above are merely examples, and are not limited to those described above.

  In this embodiment, a background image is displayed on the image display unit 61. When it is detected that the subject moves, the background image displayed on the image display unit 61 moves accordingly. Also good. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the background image displayed on the image display unit 61 is stored in the storage device 30 as a larger image on the left and right than the range displayed on the image display unit 61. When it is detected that the subject has moved to the right side with respect to the image display unit 61, the display control unit 22 reads the background on the right side that is not displayed on the image display unit 61 from the background image 30 and displays it on the left side. Display to move. That is, it is assumed that the backgrounds B1 to B3 are displayed on the image display unit 61 before the subject moves, as shown in FIG. Here, it is assumed that the background image is continuous from the background B1 to B5 as shown in FIG. When the subject moves to the right in the drawing, the background image moves to the left in the drawing, and backgrounds B3 to B5 are displayed behind the subject as shown in FIG. At this time, if the background image is displayed with a large movement compared to the movement of the subject, the user can obtain a favorite background with only a slight movement. Moreover, it can be felt as if the photographing space 5 is moved greatly. Note that such movement of the background image is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

  Also, the face portion of the subject is taken separately before the printout photography, and the face portion (referred to as a face image) of the above-mentioned separate photographing is pasted on the image display unit 61 when the live view image is displayed. It may be possible to display and take a picture. For example, as shown in FIG. 18A, the entire image displayed on the image display unit 61 is photographed, and the photographed image (still image) is displayed on the image display unit 61. Then, the user surrounds the face range with the touch pen 12a (or 12b) as shown in FIG. Thereby, a face image can be designated. Then, as shown in FIG. 18C, when the touch pen 12a is released from the touch panel 6, the range used as the face image can be determined.

  Thereafter, for example, as shown in FIG. 18E, a process for erasing unnecessary portions of the face image is added, and the processed face image as shown in FIG. 18F is stored in the storage device 30. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 19, the display control unit 22 reads out the face image stored in the storage device 30 and displays the face image on the live view image. It is sufficient that the user can determine whether or not to display the face image. Further, the user may be able to move or change the size of the face image display position on the image display unit 61. In this way, by adding a face image, it is possible to give the user an enjoyment that is different from a simple photo shoot.

  Further, when the face image is used, the following may be considered. As shown in FIG. 20A, the face image is irregularly moved and displayed on the image display unit 61. Then, since the subject cannot appear in the portion where the face image is displayed, the user moves so as to avoid the face image, and the photograph is taken. In this way, it is possible to give the user a different kind of fun from photography. In addition, it is possible to shoot a display different from usual.

  Alternatively, a star may be displayed on the image display unit 61 so that a shooting star falls instead of displaying the face image irregularly. The user can take pictures while having fun because photography is performed while avoiding stars.

Example 4
In this embodiment, the detailed operation of the photographic printing apparatus 1 in the photographing process will be described with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, the trimming position is determined using a game for catching cats. In the present embodiment, game information for catching a cat is range designation information for designating a range in the image display unit.

  When the shooting process is started, in S411, the display control unit 22 displays a message on the image display unit 61 for explaining the game, for example, “Let's catch a cat using the operation buttons!”. Then, the process proceeds to S412.

  In step S412, a preview image is displayed on the image display unit 61 of the touch panel 6. In this embodiment, the image of the cat and the image of the capture net for catching the cat are displayed at the default position together with the preview screen. Then, the cat is randomly moved and displayed on the image display unit 61, and the process proceeds to S413. In the present embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 22A, an operation button (net movement button 62g) that allows the user to move the capture net up and down and left and right on the touch panel 6 and an operation to lower the capture net are provided. An operation button that can be operated (a net lowering button 62h) is provided. Using these operation buttons as the input unit 62, the user can operate the capture net on the image display unit 61 and catch a cat on the image display unit 61 as shown in FIG. .

  In S413, it is determined whether the user has operated the capture net and has caught a cat. If it is determined that the cat has been caught (YES in S413), the process proceeds to S415. If it is determined that the cat is not caught (NO in S413), the process proceeds to S414.

  In S414, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of the preview screen display has exceeded a certain time (here, 10 seconds). If it is determined that it has exceeded 10 seconds (YES in S414), the process proceeds to S415. If it is determined that it has not exceeded (NO in S414), the process returns to S412. That is, the user can perform an operation of catching the cat using the net moving button 62g and the net lowering button 62h for a maximum of 10 seconds.

  In S415, the trimming position is fixed. The display control unit 22 causes the image display unit 61 to display the trimming frame 100 in a range of a predetermined size around the position where the cat is caught. It is assumed that the range specifying unit 21 fixes the range in which the trimming frame 100 is displayed as the trimming position. When the user has not caught the cat, the display control unit 22 causes the image display unit 61 to display the trimming frame 100 at the default position. In this case, the range specifying unit 21 fixes the trimming position to the default position. In either case, the information of the fixed trimming position is sent to the photographing processing unit 23, and the process proceeds to S416.

  In S <b> 416, the display control unit 22 causes the image display unit 61 to display a message notifying that photography will start, such as “I will start photography!”.

  In the present embodiment, the processing in S120 to S124 is the same as the processing described in Embodiment 1 with reference to FIG.

  In the above description, the cat is caught using the catch net and the trimming frame 100 is displayed at the position. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in S412, the cat image and the trimming frame 100 are displayed together with the preview screen, and the user operates to catch the cat in the trimming frame 100 (catches the cat in the trimming frame 100), and catches the cat. The position where the trimming frame 100 is displayed may be set as the trimming position.

  In this embodiment, since shooting is performed through a game of catching a cat with a catching net, it is possible to add not only photography but also new play. The contents of the game described above are merely examples, and the game contents are not limited to those described above.

(Example 5)
In this embodiment, the detailed operation of the photographic printing apparatus 1 in the photographing process will be described with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, when a bird enters the trimming frame 100, shooting starts at the trimming position. In the present embodiment, the information on the bird and the trimming frame 100 is range designation information for designating a range in the image display unit.

  When the photographing process is started, in S511, the display control unit 22 explains, for example, “You can shoot when a bird enters the photographing frame! “Ne!” Is displayed. Then, the process proceeds to S512.

  In S512, a preview image is displayed on the image display unit 61 of the touch panel 6. In this embodiment, the trimming frame 100 and the bird image are displayed at the default position together with the preview screen. For example, this display may be as shown in FIG. Thus, the default position of the bird is outside the trimming frame 100. Then, each of the bird and the trimming frame 100 is randomly moved and displayed on the image display unit 61, and the process proceeds to S513.

  In S513, it is determined whether or not a bird has entered the trimming frame 100. For example, when the display as shown in FIG. 24B is performed on the image display unit 61, it is determined that a bird has entered the trimming frame 100 (YES in S513), and the process proceeds to S515. If it is determined that there is no bird in trimming frame 100 (NO in S513), the process proceeds to S514.

  In S514, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of the preview screen display exceeds a certain time (here, 10 seconds). If it is determined that it has exceeded 10 seconds (YES in S514), the process proceeds to S515. If it is determined that it has not exceeded (NO in S514), the process returns to S512. That is, unless the bird enters the trimming frame 100, the trimming frame 100 and the bird move on the image display unit 61 for a maximum of 10 seconds.

  In S515, the trimming position is fixed. The range specifying unit 21 fixes the trimming position to the display position of the trimming frame 100 displayed when the bird enters the frame. When the bird is not in the trimming frame 100, the trimming position is fixed to the default position. In either case, the information of the fixed trimming position is sent to the photographing processing unit 23, and the process proceeds to S516.

  In S516, the display control unit 22 causes the image display unit 61 to display a message notifying that photography is started, such as “I will start photography!”, And counts down until photography starts. Then, the process proceeds to S120.

  In S120, a photograph is taken. In this case, the photographing processing unit 23 creates the inside of the trimming frame 100 as a photographed image, but may create an image including a bird in the trimming frame 100 as a photographed image.

  In the present embodiment, the processing of S120 to S124 is the same as the processing described in Embodiment 1 with reference to FIG.

  In this embodiment, when a bird enters the trimming frame 100, a shooting start signal is given, and photo shooting is started. Therefore, it is possible to provide a shooting timing different from the conventional countdown. Therefore, the user cannot predict when the photograph will be taken, can take pictures at an unexpected timing, and can take pictures while having fun as well as simply taking pictures. It should be noted that the above-described cue for starting shooting using the bird and the trimming frame 100 is merely an example, and is not limited to the above.

(Example 6)
In this embodiment, the detailed operation of the photographic printing apparatus 1 in the photographing process will be described with reference to FIG. In the present embodiment, the photographing is started when all the registered persons are entered in the trimming frame 100.

  When the photographing process is started, in S611, the display control unit 22 displays a message such as “Register the number of photographers!” For causing the image display unit 61 to input the number of subjects. Then, on the image display unit 61, for example, an input screen which is an input unit 62 for allowing the user to input the number of people is displayed as shown in FIG. Then, the process proceeds to S612. The user can register the number, that is, the number of photographers from the input screen. Here, by registering the number of photographers, when determining the number of divisions to be printed on the print paper 42 in the subsequent editing process, as shown in FIGS. 27A and 27B. It is also possible to present the number of divisions according to the registered number of people. The user can select a favorite layout from the display of the number of divisions presented according to the registered number. That is, here, when three persons are registered, the image shown in FIG. 27B is presented in the selection of the division number in the editing process.

  In S612, it is determined whether or not the number of users has been input by the user. If it is determined that the number of persons has been input (YES in S612), the process proceeds to S615. If it is determined that the number of persons has not been input (NO in S612), the process proceeds to S613.

  In S613, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of display of the input screen exceeds a certain time (here, 10 seconds). If it is determined that it has exceeded 10 seconds (YES in S613), the process proceeds to S614. In S614, the number-of-persons recognition means stores a default value (here, 3) as the registered number. Then, the process proceeds to S616. If it is determined in S613 that 10 seconds has not been exceeded (NO in S613), the process returns to S611. That is, the input screen is displayed for 10 seconds.

  In S615, the number of persons recognizing unit 24 stores the number of persons (input value) input by the user as the registered number of persons. Then, the process proceeds to S616.

  In S616, a preview image is displayed on the image display unit 61 of the touch panel 6. Then, the process proceeds to S617.

  In S617, the trimming frame 100 is displayed at the default position in the image display unit 61. Then, the process proceeds to S618. Here, the trimming frame 100 may be moved or resized by the user.

  In S <b> 618, the display control unit 22 causes the image display unit 61 to display a message notifying that photography will start, such as “I will start photography!”. Then, the process proceeds to S619.

  In S619, a number detection process is performed. An example of this number detection process will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the number detection process is started, a face recognition process is performed in S41. Here, the face recognition process is a process of detecting the number of faces of the subject in the trimming frame 100 of the image display unit 61. For example, the nose, the eyes sandwiching the nose, and the outline surrounding them It is only necessary to recognize that it is the face of one person. When the display control unit 22 performs face recognition processing and detects the number of faces, the process proceeds to S42. Here, the display control unit 22 performs the face recognition process, but may be performed by another processing unit.

  In S42, the number of people recognizing unit 24 stores the number of faces detected by the display control unit in S41 as the number of detected people. Then, the process proceeds to S43.

  In S43, the number of persons recognizing unit 24 determines whether or not the number of registered persons stored in S614 or S615 is equal to the detected number of persons. In other words, it is determined whether the trimming frame 100 contains the same number of subjects as the number of registered persons. If the registered number is equal to the detected number (YES in S43), the process proceeds to S44. In S44, the shooting flag is turned on.

  In S43, when the registered number of people and the detected number of people are not equal (NO in S43), the process proceeds to S45. In S45, the shooting flag is turned off, and the process proceeds to S46.

  In S46, when the number of persons recognition unit 24 cannot detect the number of persons, a message warning that all the faces are not in the trimming frame 100, such as “There is a person who does not appear properly”, is displayed. It is displayed on the display unit 61. This may be a display as shown in FIG. 29, for example. Note that this warning may be, for example, an audio output from a speaker.

  As described above, in this embodiment, if the same number of faces as the number of registered persons can be confirmed in the trimming frame 100, the shooting conditions are satisfied. In the present embodiment, the number of persons detection process is performed as described above, but the processing method is not limited to this. When the number of people detection process is finished, the process proceeds to S620 shown in FIG.

  In S620, it is determined whether or not the shooting flag is on. That is, it is determined whether or not preparation for taking a photograph is ready. If it is determined that the shooting flag is on (YES in S620), the process proceeds to S120. If it is determined that the shooting flag is not turned on (NO in S620), the process proceeds to S621.

  In S621, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of the number of people detection process exceeds a certain time (here, 15 seconds). If it is determined that it has exceeded 15 seconds (YES in S621), the process proceeds to S120. If it is determined that 10 seconds has not been exceeded (NO in S621), the process returns to S619 and the number of people detection process is repeated.

  In the present embodiment, the processing in S120 to S124 is the same as the processing described in Embodiment 1 with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, it is possible to shoot without missing the registered number of faces.

  The shooting processes described in the first to seventh embodiments are merely examples, and are not limited to those described above. For example, a game may be combined as appropriate.

  Note that each unit and each processing step of the photographic printing apparatus 1 according to the above embodiment are stored in a storage unit such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory) by a calculation unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). It can be realized by executing the program and controlling input means such as a keyboard, output means such as a display, or communication means such as an interface circuit. Therefore, various functions and various processes of the photographic printing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment can be realized simply by a computer having these means reading the recording medium storing the program and executing the program. Further, by recording the program on a removable recording medium, the various functions and various processes described above can be realized on an arbitrary computer.

  As this recording medium, a program medium such as a memory (not shown) such as a ROM may be used for processing by the microcomputer, or a program reader is provided as an external storage device (not shown). It may be a program medium that can be read by inserting a recording medium therein.

  In any case, the stored program is preferably configured to be accessed and executed by the microprocessor. Furthermore, it is preferable that the program is read out, and the read program is downloaded to a program storage area of the microcomputer and the program is executed. It is assumed that the download program is stored in the apparatus main body in advance.

  The program medium is a recording medium configured to be separable from the main body, a tape system such as a magnetic tape or a cassette tape, a magnetic disk such as a flexible disk or a hard disk, or a disk such as a CD / MO / MD / DVD. Fixed disk, IC card (including memory card), etc., or semiconductor ROM such as mask ROM, EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), flash ROM, etc. In particular, there are recording media that carry programs.

  In addition, if the system configuration is capable of connecting to a communication network including the Internet, the recording medium is preferably a recording medium that fluidly carries the program so as to download the program from the communication network.

  Further, when the program is downloaded from the communication network in this way, the download program is preferably stored in the apparatus main body in advance or installed from another recording medium.

  In the photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the display control unit causes the image display unit to display range designation information for designating a range in the image display unit, and the range designation unit includes: The input unit may specify a range based on information acquired by receiving a user operation corresponding to the display of the range specifying information.

  According to the above configuration, the user can perform an operation based on the range designation information displayed on the image display unit and determine the range in which the captured image is formed. Therefore, since the shooting process proceeds by user participation, a new play can be added to the photo shooting. Therefore, the enjoyment of the user can be expanded, and this can lead to the expansion of customers.

  Note that the range designation information may include game information for the user to play a game. In this case, the shooting process can be advanced while the user enjoys playing the game.

  In the photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention, a plurality of the input units may be provided in addition to the above configuration.

  According to the above configuration, a plurality of users can perform operations from the input unit. Therefore, a plurality of users can specify the range.

  Further, when the information on the battle-type game is displayed on the image display unit as the range designation information information, a plurality of users can operate a battle game between the users by operating the plurality of input units. Therefore, the enjoyment of the user can be expanded, and this can lead to the expansion of customers.

  In the photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, when a user operation according to the display of the range designation information from the input unit satisfies a predetermined shooting start condition, the shooting unit You may start.

  According to the above configuration, when the user performs an operation according to the display of the range designation information and the operation satisfies a predetermined shooting start condition, shooting is performed. Here, for example, the user operation corresponding to the display of the range designation information may be an operation of trying to catch an animal with a catching net, for example. In this case, the imaging start condition only needs to satisfy the condition when the animal can enter the capture net. Note that the user operation corresponding to the display of the range designation information and the shooting start condition are merely examples, and are not limited thereto.

  According to the above configuration, the user can take a photograph with an unexpected expression or gesture during operation corresponding to the display of the range designation information, so that a different expression can be taken. Therefore, further enjoyment can be given to the user.

  In the photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the display control means causes the image display unit to display range specifying information for specifying a range in the image display unit, and the range specifying information is If the predetermined condition is satisfied, the photographing unit may start photographing.

  In the conventional photography printing apparatus, photography is performed by counting down. According to the above configuration, photography timing different from the countdown can be provided. For this reason, since shooting is performed at an unexpected timing or the like, the user can be further enjoyed. Also, since shooting is performed at unexpected timings, it is possible to shoot facial expressions and gestures that are different from usual.

  Here, for example, the range designation information may be display information that allows an animal and a frame to move. And what is necessary is just to satisfy | fill predetermined conditions, when an animal enters in a frame. Note that the above-described range designation information and the predetermined condition are merely examples, and are not limited thereto.

  In the photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, the input unit acquires a number by a user operation, and the number acquired by the input unit within a specified range specified by the range specifying unit. A number-of-subjects recognizing means for judging whether or not the subject has entered, and the number-of-persons recognizing means determines that the number of subjects acquired by the input unit is within the designated range. May start taking a picture.

  According to the above configuration, when it is recognized that the acquired number of subjects are included in the designated range, photography is performed. Shooting is not performed unless the acquired number of subjects is within the specified range. Therefore, it is possible to shoot without missing the acquired number of subjects. Thus, the user can obtain a photographic print in which all the subjects are within the specified range, that is, all of them are shown.

  In the photographic printing apparatus according to the present invention, in addition to the above configuration, a warning may be issued when the number recognizing means recognizes that the number of subjects acquired by the input unit is not within the specified range.

  According to the above configuration, the user can be notified with a warning that the number of subjects acquired by the input unit is not within the specified range. And according to this warning, the user can obtain a photograph in which all the subjects are photographed by entering all the subjects within the specified range. In addition, the user can confirm that the photograph is not taken because it is not a malfunction of the photo print device and the number of people is not within the specified range. Can also be given. The warning may be performed, for example, by displaying the warning information on the image display unit, or the warning may be performed with the audio information from the audio output unit for outputting audio.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and examples, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims. That is, embodiments and examples obtained by combining technical means appropriately modified within the scope of the claims are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  The present invention is generally used for a photography printing apparatus that takes a photograph of a user at an amusement facility or amusement facility such as a game center, and combines the photograph with a background image and outputs it as a seal print. Can do.

It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the photography printing apparatus which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view of the said photography photography printing apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the whole process in the said photography photography printing apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of the imaging | photography process in the said photography photography printing apparatus. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus. It is a figure which shows the other example of the flow of the whole process in the said photography photography printing apparatus. It is a figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the image in the printing paper which the said photography photography printing apparatus outputs an image. (A) is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography printing apparatus, (b)-(d) is explanatory drawing of the process of the range designation | designated using a touch pen. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of photographing processing in the above-described photographic printing apparatus, and illustrating an example different from the example illustrated in FIG. 4. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of trimming position movement processing in the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 6. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus. 12 is an example of a flow of trimming position movement processing in the flowchart shown in FIG. 10, and is a flowchart showing an example different from FIG. 11. (A), (b) is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus. It is an example of the flow of the imaging | photography process in the said photography photography printing apparatus, and is a flowchart which shows an example different from the example shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus. It is a figure explaining the movement of the background with respect to the movement of a to-be-photographed object in the said photography photography printing apparatus. (A) is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus, (b)-(e) is explanatory drawing of the process which produces the face image using a touch pen, (f) is It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the produced face image. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus. (A)-(c) is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of shooting processing in the above-described photographic printing apparatus, and an example different from the examples illustrated in FIGS. (A) is a figure which shows the operation button in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus, (b) is a figure which shows the image for games displayed on the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus. It is an example of the flow of the imaging | photography process in the said photography photography printing apparatus, and is a flowchart which shows an example different from FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus. It is an example of the flow of the imaging | photography process in the said photography photography printing apparatus, and is a flowchart which shows an example different from the example shown by FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus. (A), (b) is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of the number of persons detection process in the flowchart shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in the touchscreen of the said photography photography printing apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

1 Photographic printing device 2 Camera unit (shooting unit)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 3 Apparatus main body 5 Shooting space 6 Touch panel 12a / 12b Touch pen 20 Control apparatus 21 Range designation | designated part (range designation means)
22 Display control unit (display control means)
23. Shooting processing unit (captured image forming means)
24 Number recognition unit (number recognition means)
30 Storage Device 31 External Disk Drive 35 Printer (Image Output Unit)
42 Print paper (print media)
61 Image Display Unit 62 Input Unit 100 Trimming Frame

Claims (8)

An image capturing unit that captures an image of an object, an image display unit that displays a moving image captured by the image capturing unit in real time, and an image formed based on a captured image photographed by the image capturing unit on a print medium. A photo printing apparatus provided with an image output unit for output,
An input unit that accepts user operation input and obtains information;
A range in the image display unit, and a range specifying means for the user from among a plurality of division patterns to specify a range to match the division pattern selected via the input unit,
Photographed image creating means for creating an image of the designated range designated by the range designating means as the photographed image,
The image output unit outputs to the print medium divided by the division pattern ,
The plurality of division patterns correspond to the number of people input by the user via the input unit, and the corresponding prints have different shapes in the range. apparatus.   2. The photographic printing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising display control means for displaying the designated range designated by the range designation means so as to be superimposed on the moving image displayed on the image display unit. The photographic printing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the display control unit enlarges an image within the specified range and displays the enlarged image on the image display unit. It said range specifying means, photographing and printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the specifying by moving the range by the image display unit. The photographic printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein the range designating unit designates a range based on information acquired by the input unit. An image capturing unit that captures an image of an object, an image display unit that displays a moving image captured by the image capturing unit in real time, and an image formed based on a captured image photographed by the image capturing unit on a print medium. A method for controlling a photographic printing apparatus including an image output unit that outputs information and an input unit that receives user operation input and obtains information;
A range designating step for designating a range in the image display unit, wherein the range is matched with the division pattern selected by the user via the input unit from among a plurality of division patterns ;
A captured image creating step for creating an image of the designated range specified in the range specifying step as the captured image;
The image output unit, and Nde including an output step of outputting the divided print medium in the dividing pattern,
The plurality of division patterns correspond to the number of people input by the user via the input unit, and the corresponding prints have different shapes in the range. Control method of the device. Photographing and printing device control program for realizing each means provided in the photographing and printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 to the computer. A computer-readable recording medium on which the control program for the photographic printing apparatus according to claim 7 is recorded.

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