Generation of simulated long exposure images in response to multiple short exposures

Abstract

The invention discloses simulating a generation of simulated long exposure images in response to multiple short exposures. long exposure-time image from a sequence of short exposure-time images captured at slightly different times. The sequence of images is combined in a temporal integration process to create a long exposure image that simulates the output from a still camera, steadied by a tripod, whose light-sensitive material has been exposed to the same scene from the time of the beginning of the first input image of the sequence to the last image of the input sequence. The method overcomes limitations of hand-held video and image recording devices, allowing the user to easily create effects normally associated with high-end digital still cameras under expert control.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates generally to digital photography, and more particularly to cameras configured for simulating long exposure still pictures. Background technique [0002] Still images with long exposure times (long exposure images) have long been used to create artistic effects, eg, when representing motion, smoothing motion, and for isolating fixed objects. Because the aperture must be left open for a substantial period of time, it may in some cases be difficult or even impossible for consumers to take long exposure still images without the aid of a tripod. Furthermore, the camera controls required to create useful long-exposure images are often only available on high-end single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras. The average consumer who takes casual photos usually doesn't like to be bothered with carrying a tripod or trying to figure out the nuances involved in creating long exposure images, and thus cannot take advantage of their creative possi...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0009] The reality is that many consumers or other amateur photographers never bother to take long exposure pictures due to the difficulties involved

Barriers to creating long exposure images for consumers include: (1) the burden of carrying a tripod and / or associated accessories such as a shutter release cable or remote; (2) many situations and environments where tripods are not easy to use, such as On a busy sidewalk, from a moving vehicle, etc.; (3) the user may not have learned or may not remember how to effectively create long exposures; (4) amateurs often require a lot of experimentation (many tries ) to get useful results

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