JP5760662B2 - Electronics - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an electronic device having a moving image shooting function.

  In an electronic camera which is a kind of electronic apparatus having a moving image shooting function, a model is known in which a still image shooting instruction input and a moving image shooting instruction input are combined with one button (for example, see Patent Document 1). . In the above-described conventional electronic camera, still image shooting and moving image shooting can be selectively performed by a slide type button.

Patent No. 4022689

  However, in the above-described conventional electronic camera, for example, when switching from still image shooting to moving image shooting and recording a moving image in a memory, preparation for moving image recording in the electronic camera is not performed until recording actually starts. A time lag occurs due to the processing. Therefore, the user may miss a shooting opportunity from a desired moment.

  In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide an electronic device capable of recording a moving image without missing a photographing opportunity from a desired moment.

An electronic device according to a first invention includes an image sensor, a reception unit, a detection unit, a shooting preparation unit, and a moving image recording unit. The imaging element captures an image of a subject and generates an image. The accepting unit accepts a pressing operation from the user and release of the pressing operation. The detection unit detects the state of the pressing operation via the reception unit. The shooting preparation unit starts shooting preparation when the detection unit detects the first pressing operation. The moving image recording unit performs moving image recording based on images output in time series by the image sensor. Then, the moving image recording unit starts moving image recording after the completion of shooting preparation, and when the detection unit detects the release of the first pressing operation, records the first marking information that identifies the frame of the moving image at that timing. When the detection unit detects the second pressing operation, the second marking information for identifying the frame of the moving image at the timing is recorded, and when the detection unit detects the release of the second pressing operation, the moving image End recording .

According to a second invention, in the first invention, a display unit for displaying an image is further provided. When the aspect ratio of the still image is different from the aspect ratio of the moving image, the shooting preparation unit sets the screen display of the display unit as a display mode for moving image shooting.

In a third aspect based on the second aspect , the shooting preparation unit continues to display the shooting range of the aspect ratio of the moving image on the display unit while the receiving unit receives a pressing operation from the user.

In a fourth aspect based on the second or third aspect, the photographing preparation section displays a display frame indicating the aspect ratio of the moving image on the display section as a display mode.

In a fifth aspect based on any one of the first to fourth aspects, the photographing preparation unit performs at least one of automatic exposure control and automatic focusing control.

A sixth invention further includes a release button for recording a still image in any one of the first to fifth inventions.

According to a seventh invention, in any one of the first to sixth inventions, when the detection unit detects the first pressing operation, the shooting preparation unit switches from a still image shooting mode to a moving image shooting mode.
The eighth invention includes an operation unit, a detection unit, and a recording unit. The operation unit is operated by the user. The detection unit detects the state of the operation unit. The recording unit starts recording a moving image when the detecting unit detects the first operation, records first information for identifying a frame of the moving image when the detecting unit detects the release of the first operation, and the detecting unit The second information for specifying the frame of the moving image when the second operation is detected is recorded, and the recording of the moving image is ended when the detection unit detects the release of the second operation.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electronic device capable of recording a moving image without missing a photographing opportunity at a desired moment.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an electronic camera 1 according to the present embodiment. Rear view of the housing of the electronic camera 1 The flowchart which shows an example of the moving image shooting process of 1st Embodiment. The figure explaining the time series change of animated picture photographing processing A diagram schematically showing a part of the moving image shooting process of the first embodiment The flowchart which shows an example of the moving image shooting process of 2nd Embodiment

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Here, an electronic camera which is an embodiment of the electronic apparatus of the present invention will be described as an example.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an electronic camera 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the electronic camera 1 includes a photographing optical system 10, a lens driving unit 11, a diaphragm 12, a diaphragm driving unit 13, an imaging device 14, a signal processing unit 15, and a RAM (Random Access Memory). 16, an image processing unit 17, a flash memory 18, a recording interface unit (hereinafter referred to as "recording I / F unit") 19, a display monitor 20, a touch panel 21, a moving image button 22, a release button 23, An operation unit 24, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 25, and a bus 26 are provided.

  Among these, the signal processing unit 15, the RAM 16, the image processing unit 17, the flash memory 18, the recording I / F unit 19, the display monitor 20, and the CPU 25 are connected to each other via a bus 26.

  The photographing optical system 10 includes a plurality of lens groups including a zoom lens and a focus lens. The lens driving unit 11 adjusts the lens position of the zoom lens and the focus lens in the photographic optical system 10 in the optical axis direction in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 25. For the sake of simplicity, FIG. 1 shows the photographing optical system 10 as a single lens.

  The diaphragm 12 adjusts the amount of light per unit time incident on the image sensor 14. The diaphragm drive unit 13 adjusts the opening amount of the diaphragm 12 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 25.

  The image sensor 14 captures an image of a subject that has passed through the photographing optical system 10 and the diaphragm 12 and generates an analog image signal (image). The analog image signal output from the image sensor 14 is input to the signal processing unit 15. Note that three types of color filters of R (red), G (green), and B (blue) are arranged on the imaging surface of the imaging device 14 in, for example, a Bayer array. Further, the charge accumulation time of the image sensor 14 and the reading of the image signal are controlled by a timing generator (not shown). The image sensor 14 is a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) type or CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) type image sensor.

  The signal processing unit 15 performs analog signal processing on an analog front end circuit (AFE) that performs analog signal processing on the image signal output from the image sensor 14, and digital signal processing on the image signal that has been subjected to analog signal processing by the AFE. A digital front-end circuit (DFE). The AFE of the signal processing unit 15 performs correlated double sampling or gain adjustment on the analog image signal, and then performs a process of converting the analog image signal into a digital image signal (A / D conversion). Here, the AFE of the signal processing unit 15 can adjust the imaging sensitivity corresponding to the ISO sensitivity by adjusting the gain of the image signal.

  The DFE of the signal processing unit 15 performs a correction process on the digital image signal after A / D conversion. The image signal output from the signal processing unit 15 is temporarily recorded in the RAM 16 as image data of RGB signals. The RAM 16 has a frame memory for temporarily recording image data.

  The image processing unit 17 reads the image data recorded in the RAM 16 and performs various types of image processing (for example, color interpolation processing, white balance, etc.) as necessary.

  The flash memory 18 is a non-volatile memory that stores a program for controlling the electronic camera 1 in advance. The flash memory 18 is a rewritable nonvolatile semiconductor memory. According to this program, the CPU 25 executes the processing of the flow shown in FIGS.

  The recording I / F unit 19 is formed with a connector (not shown) for connecting a detachable recording medium 30. Then, the recording I / F unit 19 accesses the recording medium 30 connected to the connector and performs still image or moving image recording processing or the like. The recording medium 30 is, for example, a non-volatile memory card. FIG. 1 shows the recording medium 30 after being connected to the connector.

  The display monitor 20 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display medium. The display monitor 20 displays various images, an operation menu of the electronic camera 1 and the like according to instructions from the CPU 25. The display monitor 20 corresponds to an aspect ratio of 4: 3, for example. Therefore, the CPU 25 causes the display monitor 20 to display a through image having an aspect ratio of 4: 3 after the electronic camera 1 is powered on.

  The touch panel 21 detects the position of a fingertip or the like that has touched the surface of the touch panel provided on the display monitor 20. And the touch panel 21 receives operation from a user by outputting the detected positional information to CPU25.

  The moving image button 22 is a one-stage moving image button that receives a pressing operation from the user and release of the pressing operation. Here, when the user releases the pressing operation by loosening the pressing operation of the finger or the like, the moving image button 22 returns to the original position. The moving image button 22 outputs a pressing operation instruction input or a pressing operation release instruction input to the CPU 25. The release button 23 is a two-stage release button that accepts an instruction input for a half-press operation (start of imaging preparation operation) and an instruction input for a full-press operation (start of imaging operation). In the present embodiment, since the moving image button 22 and the release button 23 are provided independently, the operability can be improved, so that it is not necessary to miss the shooting opportunity.

  FIG. 2 is a rear view of the housing of the electronic camera 1. As an example, the rear surface of the housing of the electronic camera 1 is provided with a display monitor 20, an operation unit 24, a wide-angle zoom button 24a, a telephoto zoom button 24b, a menu button 24c, and a selection / determination button 24d. ing. In addition, a moving image button 22 is provided on the rear surface of the housing of the electronic camera 1 independently of the operation unit 24. Further, a release button 23 and a power button 24 e as an operation unit 24 are provided on the upper surface of the casing of the electronic camera 1.

  The wide angle zoom button 24a changes the focal length to the wide angle side, and the telephoto zoom button 24b changes the focal length to the telephoto side. The menu button 24c accepts an operation for starting up the menu screen from the user. The selection / determination button 24d accepts item selection or item determination such as setting conditions in the operation menu of the electronic camera 1 from the user. Here, the selection / determination button 24d includes a determination button 24f and a dial 24g. The overall shape of the dial 24g is annular, and a determination button 24f is arranged on the inner peripheral side of the dial 24g. Then, the dial 24g accepts an input of item selection on the menu screen or the like from the user, for example. The power button 24e accepts turning on or off of a power source (not shown) of the electronic camera 1.

  Returning again to FIG. 1, the CPU 25 is a processor that performs various operations and controls the electronic camera 1. The CPU 25 controls each part of the electronic camera 1 by executing a sequence program stored in advance in the flash memory 18. The CPU 25 has a timer function for measuring time. Further, the CPU 25 also functions as a detection unit 25a, a shooting preparation unit 25b, a moving image recording unit 25c, and a still image recording unit 25d.

  The detection unit 25 a detects the state of the pressing operation via the moving image button 22. Specifically, the detection unit 25a detects a pressing operation instruction input or a pressing operation release instruction input output by the moving image button 22. For example, the detection unit 25a manages the state of the pressing operation with flag information. Thereby, the detection part 25a will change flag information from OFF to ON, if the instruction input of pressing operation is detected. When the flag information is in the on state, the detection unit 25a determines that the user is continuously pressing the moving image button 22. Moreover, the detection part 25a will change flag information from ON to OFF, if the instruction | indication input of cancellation | release of pressing operation is detected.

  In addition, the detection unit 25a counts the number of times of pressing operation instruction input. As a result, the CPU 25 changes the processing content according to the number of times of pressing operation instruction input (details will be described later). When the moving image recording ends, the detection unit 25a sets the flag information to OFF, and resets the number of times of pressing operation instruction input to zero.

  The shooting preparation unit 25b starts shooting preparation when the detection unit 25a detects the first pressing operation. Specifically, the shooting preparation unit 25b switches from the still image shooting mode to the moving image shooting mode. As a result, the user can save the trouble of switching from the still image shooting mode to the moving image shooting mode with the menu button 24c or the like.

  The photographing preparation unit 25b performs automatic exposure control (hereinafter referred to as “AE control”) and automatic focusing control (hereinafter referred to as “AF control”). Specifically, the shooting preparation unit 25b calculates an appropriate exposure based on the subject brightness in the shooting screen as AE control.

  Further, as the AF control, the imaging preparation unit 25b searches for a focus position where the evaluation value indicating the sharpness (contrast state) is the maximum value for the distance measurement point set in the imaging screen. : Auto Focus). With these controls, the shooting preparation unit 25b can improve the image quality of the moving image.

  Furthermore, when the still image aspect ratio and the moving image aspect ratio are different, the shooting preparation unit 25b sets the screen display of the display monitor 20 as a moving image shooting display mode. Specifically, the shooting preparation unit 25b causes the display monitor 20 to display a display frame indicating the aspect ratio of the moving image. For example, the shooting preparation unit 25b may continue to display the shooting range of the moving image aspect ratio on the display monitor 22 while the moving image button 22 receives a pressing operation from the user. Thereby, the user can easily recognize the shooting range.

  The moving image recording unit 25c performs moving image recording based on images output by the image sensor 14 in time series. Specifically, the moving image recording unit 25c starts moving image recording when the detection unit 25a detects the release of the first pressing operation. In this case, the moving image recording unit 25c records the moving image data on the recording medium 30 in accordance with, for example, a known motion JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) format.

  In the motion JPEG format, for example, the CPU 25 temporarily stores the RGB image data output from the signal processing unit 15 in the frame memory of the RAM 16. Subsequently, as an example, the image processing unit 17 converts (YC conversion) RGB image data into YC signal image data including a luminance signal (Y signal) and color difference signals (Cr, Cb signals). Then, the moving image recording unit 25c performs a compression process in the JEPG format for each frame (YC signal image data), and continuously records still images on the recording medium 30 or the flash memory 18 at a constant frame rate. Go.

  Note that the file format of the moving image is not limited to motion JPG, and other file formats such as MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) may be applied. Note that the moving image recording unit 25c also records audio data via a microphone (not shown) according to the setting.

  The moving image recording unit 25c ends the moving image recording when the detecting unit 25a detects the second pressing operation during moving image recording. The still image recording unit 25 d records a recording still image (main image) in the recording medium 30 or the flash memory 18 in response to the full pressing operation of the release button 23.

  Next, an example of moving image shooting processing in the electronic camera 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the moving image shooting process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a time-series change in the moving image shooting process. FIG. 4A shows a state in which the state of the subject is divided into (time t0 to t5) along the flow of time. FIG. 4B shows an example of a time-series change in the conventional moving image shooting process as a comparative example.

  FIG. 4C shows an example of time-series change in the moving image shooting process in the first embodiment. FIG. 4D shows an example of a time-series change in the moving image shooting process in the second embodiment. FIG. 4D will be described in the second embodiment.

  Here, for comparison, an example of a conventional moving image shooting process will be briefly described. In FIG. 4B, in the conventional moving image shooting process, when a moving image button is turned on (pressed) by a user input while a through image is being displayed, the still image shooting mode is switched to the moving image shooting mode. In the conventional moving image shooting process, the through image is displayed on the display monitor by switching from the still image aspect ratio (for example, 4: 3) to the moving image aspect ratio (for example, 16: 9). Subsequently, in the conventional moving image shooting process, moving image recording is started, and when the moving image button is turned on again, the moving image recording is ended. Thereafter, in the conventional moving image shooting process, the moving image shooting mode is switched to the still image shooting mode, and the moving image aspect ratio is switched to the still image aspect ratio to display the through image on the display monitor.

  That is, in the conventional moving image shooting process, as described above, there is a time lag due to the moving image recording preparation process (for example, AE control and AF control) or display process in the electronic camera before the actual moving image recording is started. Therefore, it is difficult for the user to take a picture from a desired moment. That is, it becomes difficult for the user to control the start time of moving image recording.

  Further, in the conventional moving image shooting process, the display range of the through image displayed on the display monitor is different from the shooting range of the moving image recording, and there are cases where shooting cannot be performed with the intended composition assumed by the user. In addition, in the function of displaying the difference in aspect ratio in advance, it is necessary to display information such as grid lines and hatching areas on the display screen of the through image, and the screen may become complicated.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, a means for facilitating recording of a moving image from a desired moment for the user is provided. In the present embodiment, a means for capturing a moving image with the intended composition assumed by the user is provided. Furthermore, the present embodiment provides a means that does not require a complicated display screen. Hereinafter, the processing of the flow shown in FIG. 3 will be specifically described.

  Here, after the electronic camera 1 is turned on, the CPU 25 starts the processing of the flow shown in FIG. The process of the flow is associated with the time series change of the moving image shooting process shown in FIG.

  Step S101: The CPU 25 shifts to a shooting standby state. Specifically, the CPU 25 drives the image sensor 14 to generate a through image. As an example, the CPU 25 causes the image sensor 14 to generate a through image at a predetermined frame rate (for example, 30 fps). Then, the CPU 25 displays a through image (aspect ratio 4: 3) on the display monitor 20. The CPU 25 also performs AE control and AF control for a through image (aspect ratio 4: 3).

  Step S102: The detection unit 25a of the CPU 25 determines whether or not the moving image button 22 is turned on (input instruction for the first pressing operation) by the user. When the detection unit 25a does not detect the moving image button 22 being turned on (instruction input for the first pressing operation) (step S102: No), the CPU 25 returns to the process of step S101.

  On the other hand, when the detection unit 25a detects that the moving image button 22 is turned on (input instruction for the first pressing operation) (step S102: Yes), the CPU 25 proceeds to the process of step S103. The detection unit 25a changes the flag information from off to on. In addition, the detection unit 25a counts the number of times of pressing operation instruction input as 1.

  Step S103: The shooting preparation unit 25b of the CPU 25 starts shooting preparation. Specifically, the shooting preparation unit 25b switches from the still image shooting mode to the moving image shooting mode. As a result, the shooting preparation unit 25b sets the shooting screen to a full high-definition aspect ratio (16: 9) as an aspect ratio for moving image shooting, and performs processing for AE control and AF control. And CPU25 transfers to the process of step S104.

  Step S104: The photographing preparation unit 25b performs a screen display change process of the display monitor 20. Specifically, the imaging preparation unit 25b causes the display monitor 20 to display a display frame indicating the aspect ratio of the moving image in order to change the display mode of the screen display of the display monitor 20 from a still image to a moving image. FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing a part of the moving image shooting process according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5A, the shooting preparation unit 25b displays the display frames 20a and 20b on the display monitor 20 by the process of step S104. Thereby, the user can easily recognize the aspect ratio of moving image shooting. And CPU25 transfers to the process of step S105.

  The display form of the display frames 20a and 20b shown in FIG. 5A is an example. For example, the shooting preparation unit 25b superimposes and displays a line indicating the aspect ratio for moving image shooting on the display monitor 20. Also good. Further, the CPU 25 displays the display frames 20a and 20b on the display monitor 20 and displays a through image until the moving image shooting mode is canceled in step S111 described later.

  Step S105: The detection unit 25a determines whether or not the moving image button 22 is turned off (input instruction for releasing the first pressing operation) within a predetermined time by the user. This step S105 assumes a case where the moving image button 22 is turned off in a short time (predetermined time: within one second, for example) after the user turns on the moving image button 22.

  When the detection unit 25a detects that the moving image button 22 is turned off (step S105: Yes), the CPU 25 proceeds to a process of step S109 described later. The detecting unit 25a changes the flag information from on to off.

  On the other hand, when the detection unit 25a does not detect that the moving image button 22 is turned off (step S105: No), the CPU 25 proceeds to the process of step S106.

  Step S106: The photographing preparation unit 25b shifts to a moving image recording standby state. Specifically, the photographing preparation unit 25b waits for an instruction to record a moving image while performing AE control and AF control. In this case, the detection unit 25a can determine that the user continues to press the moving image button 22 because the flag information is on. And CPU25 transfers to the process of step S107.

  Step S107: The detection unit 25a determines whether or not the moving image button 22 is kept on by the user. In other words, the detection unit 25a determines whether or not the moving image button 22 is turned off (input instruction for releasing the first pressing operation) within the set time by the user. When the detection unit 25a detects that the moving image button 22 is turned off (step S107: No), the CPU 25 proceeds to a process of step S109 described later. On the other hand, when the detection unit 25a does not detect that the moving image button 22 is turned off (step S107: Yes), the CPU 25 proceeds to the process of step S108.

  Step S108: The detection unit 25a determines whether or not the set time has elapsed. Specifically, the detection unit 25a sets the set time to 30 seconds as an example. And the detection part 25a measures time using the timer function in CPU25, and determines whether 30 second passed. When the set time has not elapsed (step S108: No), the CPU 25 returns to the process of step S106. On the other hand, when the set time has elapsed (step S108: Yes), the CPU 25 proceeds to the process of step S111 described later.

  Step S109: The moving image recording unit 25c of the CPU 25 starts moving image recording based on the images output by the image sensor 14 in time series. FIG. 5B schematically shows how a plurality of frames (aspect ratio 16: 9) are recorded as moving images. The moving image recording unit 25c sequentially records moving image data of a plurality of frames on the recording medium 30 according to the motion JPEG format. In this case, the moving image recording unit 25c, as an example of the captured moving image size, determines the HD (high resolution) from the image size of the through image (for example, VGA (Video Graphics Array: screen resolution of 640 × 480 pixels)) according to the setting condition. definition: A moving image is recorded with an image size of 1280 × 720 pixels) or full HD (1920 × 1080 pixels screen resolution) image size.

  Step S110: The detection unit 25a determines whether or not the moving image button 22 is turned on (input instruction for the second pressing operation) by the user. When the detection unit 25a does not detect that the moving image button 22 is on (second pressing operation instruction input) (step S110: No), the CPU 25 returns to the process of step S109 and continues moving image recording.

  On the other hand, when detecting that the moving image button 22 is on (second pressing operation instruction input) (step S110: Yes), the detection unit 25a changes the flag information from off to on. In addition, the detection unit 25a counts the number of instruction inputs for pressing operation as 2. As a result, the shooting preparation unit 25b can determine that the detection unit 25a has detected the second pressing operation, and thus does not need to start shooting preparation. And CPU25 transfers to the process of step S111.

  Step S111: The CPU 25 cancels the moving image shooting mode. Then, the CPU 25 switches to a still image shooting mode. Further, the CPU 25 resets the flag information and changes it from on to off. Further, the CPU 25 resets the number of times of pressing operation instruction input to zero. And CPU25 transfers to the process of step S112.

  Step S112: The CPU 25 performs a screen display change process of the display monitor 20. Specifically, the CPU 25 deletes the display frames 20a and 20b from the display monitor 20 and displays a through image (aspect ratio 4: 3) in order to change the display mode of the screen display of the display monitor 20 from a moving image to a still image. Display. FIG. 5C shows the display mode of the display monitor 20 after the end of moving image recording. Then, the CPU 25 ends the process of the flow shown in FIG.

  In the state shown in FIG. 5C, for example, when the user fully presses the release button 23, the still image recording unit 25d of the CPU 25 sends the main image to the recording medium 30 in response to the full press operation. Record. Specifically, the still image recording unit 25d drives the image sensor 14 to generate an analog image signal of the main image. Then, the signal processing unit 15 performs A / D conversion or the like of the analog image signal. The digital image signal output from the signal processing unit 15 is temporarily recorded as image data for recording in the RAM 16. The image processing unit 17 reads the image data recorded in the RAM 16 and performs various image processes as necessary. The still image recording unit 25d accesses the recording medium 30 via the recording I / F unit 19 and performs recording processing of the main image.

  Here, in the conventional moving image shooting process, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, a part of the subject from time t1 to time t2 and a moving image from time t2 to time t3 are recorded. However, it is difficult to perform sufficient framing for determining the composition. Furthermore, if the time t2 is a desired moving image recording start timing for the user, unnecessary moving images are also recorded.

  On the other hand, according to the moving image shooting process of the electronic camera 1, while the user keeps pressing the moving image button 22, the moving image recording standby state is maintained, so that the user can easily match the desired framing. Further, according to the moving image shooting process of the electronic camera 1, when the detection unit 25a detects that the moving image button 22 is turned on (instruction input for the first pressing operation), the shooting preparation unit 25b displays a display frame indicating the aspect ratio of the moving image. Is displayed on the display monitor 20. Therefore, the electronic camera 1 does not need to display information such as moving image display grid lines and hatching areas in the still image mode, and the display screen does not have to be complicated.

  Furthermore, according to the moving image shooting process of the electronic camera 1, the electronic camera 1 starts moving image recording at the moment when the user turns off the moving image button 22 without adding an operation button or a menu carelessly. Therefore, when the time t2 is a timing for starting the desired moving image recording for the user, the electronic camera 1 can start moving image recording from the time t2 without generating a time lag. And the electronic camera 1 will complete | finish video recording, when the detection part 25a detects ON of the video button 22 again. Thereby, in the electronic camera 1, operability can be improved.

  As described above, the electronic camera 1 according to the present embodiment can record a moving image so as not to miss a photographing opportunity at a desired moment for the user.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the electronic camera of the second embodiment, when recording a moving image, an editing function (marking function) is added to make it easier to edit the moving image later.

  In the block diagram illustrating the configuration example of the electronic camera 1 in FIG. 1, the same reference numerals are given to the same elements in the first embodiment of the present invention and the second embodiment of the present invention, and different points are configured. Will be explained.

  In the second embodiment, the function of the moving image recording unit 25c is different. Specifically, the moving image recording unit 25c starts moving image recording after the preparation for shooting by the shooting preparation unit 25b is completed. Subsequently, when the detection unit 25a detects the release of the first pressing operation, the moving image recording unit 25c records first marking information that identifies a frame of the moving image at that timing. Furthermore, when the detection unit 25a detects the second pressing operation, the moving image recording unit 25c records second marking information that identifies a frame of the moving image at that timing. And the moving image recording part 25c complete | finishes moving image recording, when a detection part detects cancellation | release of 2nd press operation.

  Hereinafter, an example of the moving image shooting process in the electronic camera 1 of the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a moving image shooting process according to the second embodiment.

  After the power of the electronic camera 1 is turned on, the CPU 25 starts the processing of the flow shown in FIG. Since the processing from step S201 to step S204 is the same as the processing of the flow shown in FIG. 3 (step S101 to step S104), the description will be simplified. Further, the processing of the flow shown in FIG. 6 is associated with the time series change of the moving image shooting processing shown in FIG.

  Step S201: The CPU 25 shifts to a shooting standby state.

  Step S202: The detection unit 25a determines whether or not the moving image button 22 is turned on (input instruction for the first pressing operation) by the user. When the detection unit 25a does not detect that the moving image button 22 is turned on (step S202: No), the CPU 25 returns to the process of step S201. On the other hand, when the detection unit 25a detects that the moving image button 22 is turned on (step S202: Yes), the CPU 25 proceeds to the process of step S203. The detection unit 25a changes the flag information from off to on.

  Step S203: The shooting preparation unit 25b starts shooting preparation. And CPU25 transfers to the process of step S204.

  Step S204: The photographing preparation unit 25b performs a screen display change process of the display monitor 20. Specifically, the imaging preparation unit 25b displays the display frames 20a and 20b on the display monitor 20 in order to change the display mode of the screen display of the display monitor 20 from a still image to a moving image (see FIG. 5A). .

  Step S205: The moving image recording unit 25c starts moving image recording after the preparation for shooting by the shooting preparation unit 25b is completed.

  Step S206: The detecting unit 25 determines whether or not the moving image button 22 is turned off (input instruction for releasing the first pressing operation) within a predetermined time by the user. When the detection unit 25a detects that the moving image button 22 is turned off (step S206: Yes), the CPU 25 proceeds to a process of step S212 described later. In this case, in the processing of the flow of FIG. 6, moving image recording is performed without performing marking processing described later. The detecting unit 25a changes the flag information from on to off.

  On the other hand, when the detection unit 25a does not detect that the moving image button 22 is turned off (step S206: No), the CPU 25 proceeds to the process of step S207.

  Step S207: The detection unit 25 determines whether or not the moving image button 22 is kept on by the user. In other words, the detection unit 25a determines whether or not the moving image button 22 is turned off (input instruction for releasing the first pressing operation) within the set time by the user. When the detection unit 25a does not detect the moving image button 22 being turned off (step S207: No), the CPU 25 repeats the process of step S207. Thereby, the moving image recording unit 25c continuously performs moving image recording.

  On the other hand, when the detection unit 25a detects that the moving image button 22 is turned off (step S207: Yes), the CPU 25 proceeds to the process of S208. The detecting unit 25a changes the flag information from on to off.

  Step S208: The moving picture recording unit 25c performs a first marking process. Specifically, when the detection unit 25a detects the release of the first pressing operation, the moving image recording unit 25c reads the frame recorded in the RAM 16 at that timing and corresponds the first marking information to the frame. Add and record.

  Step S209: The detection unit 25a determines whether or not the moving image button 22 is turned on (input instruction for the second pressing operation) by the user. When the detection unit 25a does not detect that the moving image button 22 is turned on (step S209: No), the process of step S209 is repeated. Thereby, the moving image recording unit 25c continuously performs moving image recording. On the other hand, when the detection unit 25a detects that the moving image button 22 is turned on (step S209: Yes), the CPU 25 proceeds to the process of step S210. The detection unit 25a changes the flag information from off to on. In addition, the detection unit 25a counts the number of instruction inputs for pressing operation as 2. That is, since the CPU 25 can determine that the detection unit 25a has detected the second pressing operation, the CPU 25 proceeds to the process of step S210 without starting preparation for shooting.

  Step S210: The moving picture recording unit 25c performs a second marking process. Specifically, when the detection unit 25a detects the second pressing operation, the frame recorded in the RAM 16 is read at that timing, and the second marking information is recorded in association with the frame. And CPU25 transfers to the process of step S211.

  Step S211: The detection unit 25a determines whether or not the moving image button 22 is kept on by the user. In other words, the detection unit 25a determines whether or not the moving image button 22 has been turned off by the user (input instruction for releasing the second pressing operation). When the detection unit 25a does not detect the moving image button 22 being off (step S211: Yes), the CPU 25 repeats the process of step S211. Thereby, the moving image recording unit 25c continuously performs moving image recording.

  On the other hand, when the detection unit 25a detects that the moving image button 22 is turned off (step S211: No), the CPU 25 proceeds to a process of step S213 described later. That is, the CPU 25 ends the moving image recording in the process of step S213 when the user accepts that the moving image button 22 is turned off (input instruction for releasing the second pressing operation). Thereby, in the electronic camera 1, operability can be improved.

  Step S212: The CPU 25 determines whether or not the moving image button 22 is turned on (input instruction for the second pressing operation) by the user. When the detection unit 25a does not detect the moving image button 22 being turned on (step S212: No), the process of step S212 is repeated. Thereby, the moving image recording unit 25c continuously performs moving image recording. On the other hand, when the detection unit 25a detects that the moving image button 22 is turned on (step S212: Yes), the CPU 25 proceeds to the process of step S213.

  The detection unit 25a changes the flag information from off to on. Here, since the process of step S212 branches off from the process of step S206, the detection unit 25a counts the number of times of instruction input of the pressing operation as 2. That is, since the CPU 25 can determine that the detection unit 25a has detected the second pressing operation, the CPU 25 proceeds to the process of step S213 without starting preparation for shooting.

  Step S213: The moving image recording unit 25c ends the moving image recording.

  Step S214: The CPU 25 cancels the moving image shooting mode. Then, the CPU 25 switches to a still image shooting mode. Further, the CPU 25 resets the flag information and changes it from on to off. Further, the CPU 25 resets the number of times of pressing operation instruction input to zero. And CPU25 transfers to the process of step S215.

  Step S215: The CPU 25 performs a screen display change process of the display monitor 20. Specifically, the CPU 25 deletes the display frames 20a and 20b from the display monitor 20 and displays a through image (aspect ratio 4: 3) in order to change the display mode of the screen display of the display monitor 20 from a moving image to a still image. Display. Then, the CPU 25 ends the process of the flow shown in FIG.

  As described above, according to the moving image shooting process of the electronic camera 1 according to the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4D, the data recorded by moving image recording can be divided into areas A, B, and C as a recording range. Therefore, in the electronic camera 1, the recording range can be easily cut out in accordance with the pressing operation of the moving image button 22, and moving image editing becomes easy. For example, when a shooting opportunity comes after the recording range B shown in FIG. 4D, the electronic camera 1 performs a marking process and records a moving image. Thereby, the user can easily search the start position of the recording range C.

  That is, the electronic camera 1 can easily cut out the recording range by associating the shooting start position, the marking process, and the shooting end position with the user's pressing operation.

  Therefore, the electronic camera 1 of the present embodiment can not only record moving images so as not to miss a shooting opportunity, but also facilitate moving image editing.

(Supplementary items of the embodiment)
(1) In the above-described embodiment, a compact electronic camera is illustrated as an electronic apparatus to which the present invention can be applied. However, the present invention is not limited to this electronic camera. The electronic apparatus to which the present invention is applicable includes a camera capable of recording still images and moving images in a digital manner, such as a single-lens reflex electronic camera and a digital video camera. In addition, an electronic device to which the present invention can be applied is a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), and other electronic devices having a moving image shooting function, as long as still images and moving images can be recorded digitally. Is also included. The moving image shooting process of the present invention is particularly effective when the display screen size is not the aspect ratio of the moving image, since the display mode of the display screen is changed to a moving image and the display frame is displayed.

  (2) In the above embodiment, the moving image button 22 is applied as the reception unit of the present invention. However, this is an example, and for example, a known resistive film type (pressure-sensitive) touch panel 21 is used as the reception unit of the present invention. It may be applied as Thereby, the user can operate the electronic camera 1 by pressing the surface of the touch panel 24b with a finger. In this case, the electronic camera 1 may display a moving image button on the display screen of the display monitor 20 and perform the same processing as the moving image button 22.

  (3) In the above embodiment, the number of markings is two. However, the number of markings is not limited to two, and the electronic camera 1 performs the marking process in real time when the moving image button 22 is continuously pressed. You may be able to do it every time. Alternatively, the electronic camera 1 may set the number of markings in advance, and may perform the marking process according to whether the moving image button 22 is turned on or off until the set number is reached.

  (4) In the above embodiment, the shooting preparation unit 25b performs AE control and AF control as shooting preparation. However, the present invention is not limited to these controls, and other means such as white balance adjustment may be used as appropriate. good.

  (5) In the above embodiment, the moving image recording movie button 22 and the still image recording release button 23 have been described separately. For example, with one button, the moving image recording operation and the still image recording operation are performed. And may be combined. Specifically, the moving image recording operation and the still image recording operation are combined with the moving image button 22 of the above embodiment. However, the user selects a still image shooting mode and a moving image shooting mode in advance. Accordingly, the moving image button 22 may function as a one-stage release button in the still image shooting mode, and may function as the moving image button 22 in the above embodiment in the moving image shooting mode.

  (6) In the above embodiment, the recording is performed on the recording medium 30 according to the motion JPEG format. However, the moving image recording unit 25c may record the recording medium 30 according to the MPEG2 format, for example. In this case, in the MPEG2 format data structure, three types of image data (video data) of so-called “I picture”, “P picture”, and “B picture” are configured in the GOP (Group of pictures) layer. For example, when the detection unit 25a detects the release of the first pressing operation, the moving image recording unit 25c adds the first marking information to the I picture created from the image data read from the RAM 16 at that timing. good.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Electronic camera, 14 ... Image sensor, 22 ... Movie button, 25a ... Detection part, 25b ... Shooting preparation part, 25c ... Movie recording part

Claims (8)

An image sensor that captures an image of a subject and generates an image;
A reception unit that receives a pressing operation from the user and release of the pressing operation;
A detection unit that detects the state of the pressing operation via the reception unit;
When the detection unit detects the first pressing operation, a shooting preparation unit that starts shooting preparation;
A moving image recording unit that performs moving image recording based on the images output in time series by the imaging device;
The moving image recording unit starts the moving image recording after the preparation for shooting is completed, and when the detection unit detects the release of the first pressing operation, a first marking for identifying a frame of the moving image at that timing When information is recorded and the detection unit detects the second pressing operation, second marking information for identifying a frame of the moving image at the timing is recorded, and the detection unit releases the second pressing operation. The electronic device is characterized in that the video recording is terminated when the video recording is detected . The electronic device according to claim 1,
A display unit for displaying the image;
When the aspect ratio of the still image is different from the aspect ratio of the moving image, the shooting preparation unit sets the screen display of the display unit to a display mode for shooting a moving image. The electronic device according to claim 2,
The electronic apparatus is characterized in that the shooting preparation unit continues to display the shooting range of the aspect ratio of the moving image on the display unit while the receiving unit receives a pressing operation from the user. The electronic device according to claim 2 or claim 3,
The electronic apparatus is characterized in that the photographing preparation unit displays a display frame indicating the aspect ratio of the moving image on the display unit as the display mode. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The electronic apparatus is characterized in that the photographing preparation unit performs at least one of automatic exposure control and automatic focusing control. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
An electronic apparatus, further comprising a release button for recording a still image. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The electronic device is characterized in that the photographing preparation unit switches from a still image photographing mode to a moving image photographing mode when the detecting unit detects the first pressing operation. An operation unit operated by a user;
A detection unit for detecting a state of the operation unit;
Recording of the moving image is started when the detection unit detects the first operation, and first information for specifying a frame of the moving image when the detection unit detects release of the first operation is recorded, and the detection unit A second recording unit configured to record second information for identifying a frame of the moving image when the second operation is detected, and to terminate the recording of the moving image when the detection unit detects release of the second operation;
An electronic device comprising:

Images