Imaging apparatus, control method of imaging apparatus, and computer program

Abstract

An imaging apparatus includes a face detecting unit detecting a face region from an input image input to the imaging apparatus and a control unit calculating a distance to a subject on the basis of the face size detected by the face detection unit and displaying distance identification information indicating a distance corresponding to the calculated distance in a display unit.

Description

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] The present invention contains subject matter related to Japanese Patent Application JP 2006-160453 filed in the Japanese Patent Office on Jun. 9, 2006, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Technical Field [0003] The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus, a control method of imaging apparatuses, and a computer program, and more particularly, to an imaging apparatus, a control method of imaging apparatuses, and a computer program which are capable of calculating a distance to a subject on the basis of a face of a person as a subject and providing a user with the calculated distance information. [0004] 2. Background Art [0005] Focusing processing for bringing an imaging apparatus such as a digital still camera and a digital video camera into focus on a subject includes auto-focus processing in which focus adjustment is performed automatically and manual-focus...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes an imaging apparatus that can quickly and accurately focus on a target subject by using a face detection system. The apparatus calculates the distance to the subject based on the size of the face detected in the image and displays a distance identifier on the indicator. This makes it easier for the user to quickly find the correct focus position. The apparatus can also blink or change the display color of the distance identifier based on the user's preference or the distance of the face to the indicator. Overall, this technology provides better user support and faster and more precise focus in imaging.

Problems solved by technology

However, generally, the LCD or EVF as a monitor which is built in the imaging apparatus has a relatively low resolution, and it is difficult to precisely determine whether a target subject is in focus from an image in the monitor.

However, when the display on an enlarged scale is performed, there is a problem that detection of an actual distance to a subject from the display on the screen becomes difficult.

In other words, in this case, the indicator rarely performs a function of supporting the manual focus control of the user.

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