Imaging device, program product, computer readable medium, imaging system, and imaging method

Abstract

The invention provides an imaging device, a program product, a computer readable medium, an imaging system, and an imaging method capable of experiencing the sense of simulation of a film camera while limiting a digital function. An imaging device (10) has a control unit (31) comprising a processor, and a display (22). When the film camera mode in which the image format is limited is selected, the control unit (31) outputs user interface information relating to imaging to the display (22) and limits the live view output to the display (22).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a camera device, application program, camera system, camera method, and camera program. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 describes the following: When a lens capable of capturing a wide field of view of 180 degrees is installed, in order to avoid the possibility that the expression of the main subject may be difficult to confirm in the wide field of view image due to its small size relative to the whole, a live view image is not displayed.

[0003] Patent document 2 describes the following: multiple parent image files recorded as a parent image group on a recording medium are processed together, and the resulting child image files are associated as a child image group and recorded in a memory card.

[0004] Patent document 3 describes the following: when the shutter switch is pressed and the image display unit is in an open state (not stored state), image processing is performed; when it is closed (stored state), image processing is not performed.

[0005] Patent document 4 describes displaying the expected number of images N1, the number of images taken N2, etc. on an LCD.

[0006] Patent document 5 describes the following: the first file mode of the digital camera is DCF mode, and the second file mode is movie mode (which can determine the device used to shoot moving images based on the file name, etc.), and the file mode selection is made by user input.

[0007] Patent document 6 describes the following: the directories directly under DCIM located in the DCF root directory and the directories directly under SNDR are given the same directory names; and the directory structure under the SNDR directory is the same as the directory structure under DCIM that conforms to the DCF standard.

[0008] Patent document 7 describes the following: when a semiconductor memory card is inserted into a digital camera, a replayable file placed in a non-standard directory is moved to a standard directory and replayed; and the movement of the replayable file can be performed through a user's menu operation.

[0009] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-158559

[0010] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-183350

[0011] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-94871

[0012] Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-19869

[0013] Patent Document 5: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-72272

[0014] Patent Document 6: Patent No. 4776967

[0015] Patent Document 7: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-128282 Summary of the Invention

[0016] The purpose of this invention is to provide a camera device, application, camera system, camera method, and camera program that can limit digital functions while providing an analog experience of a film camera.

[0017] The camera device of the present invention has a first monitoring unit and a first processor, wherein the first processor outputs user interface information related to photography to the first monitoring unit when a first shooting mode in which the image format is restricted is selected, and restricts the output of live view to the first monitoring unit.

[0018] Preferably, in the first photography mode, the first processor locks the photography operation based on the first component and unlocks it according to the operation of the second component. Preferably, when the lock is unlocked, the first processor outputs information indicating that the photography operation based on the first component is valid as user interface information. Preferably, if the first processor performs a photography operation during the locking period of the photography operation, it outputs information indicating that the photography operation is invalid.

[0019] Preferably, when performing a photographic operation based on the first component, the first processor outputs information related to the number of shots as user interface information. Preferably, in the first photographic mode, the first processor restricts the output of the photographed image data to the first monitoring unit.

[0020] Preferably, when the first photography mode is selected and then terminated, the first processor saves the series of image data obtained through photography in a single unit on the recording medium. Preferably, when the number of shots taken in the first photography mode reaches a predetermined number, the first processor disables the locking and unlocking of the photography operation based on the first component and the photography operation based on the second component.

[0021] Preferably, when the first processor takes a predetermined number of photos in the first photography mode, it saves the series of image data obtained through photography in a single unit on the recording medium. Preferably, when the first photography mode ends, the first processor switches to a second photography mode in which the output restriction to the first monitoring unit is lifted.

[0022] Preferably, the first processor restricts the moving images in the image format during the first photographic mode. Preferably, the first processor outputs a predetermined number of images as user interface information. Preferably, the first processor saves a series of image data obtained through photography in the first photographic mode in the recording medium as a single unit that restricts the display on the first monitoring unit, and removes the display restriction when the first photographic mode is ended.

[0023] Preferably, in the first photographic mode, the first processor stores a series of image data obtained by photographing in the second storage area of ​​a recording medium that generates a first storage area conforming to the DCF standard and a second storage area that does not conform to the DCF standard.

[0024] Preferably, in the first photography mode, the first processor saves a series of image data obtained through photography in a second directory that does not conform to the DCF standard, generated in the second storage area. Preferably, the first processor saves image data obtained in the second photography mode, which does not restrict image formats, in the first directory of the first storage area.

[0025] Preferably, each time the first shooting mode is selected, the first processor creates a second directory in the second storage area. Preferably, the first processor generates management files that record information related to the image data under the second directory.

[0026] The first directory and the second directory in the first storage area are preferably distinguishable from each other. The first directory and the second directory are preferably hierarchically organized according to the same rules.

[0027] Preferably, upon receiving a first instruction, the first processor can display the image data stored in the second storage area on the first monitoring unit according to the first instruction. Preferably, the first processor outputs an image of a list of thumbnail images of the image data to the first monitoring unit. Preferably, upon receiving a second instruction from an external device, the first processor moves the image data stored in the second storage area to the first storage area according to the second instruction.

[0028] The application of the present invention is used to enable an information processing device having a second monitoring unit and a second processor connected to the camera device of the present invention described above to perform, wherein the second processor performs any one of the following processes: executing a third instruction to enable image data stored in the second storage area to be displayed on the second monitoring unit; or executing a fourth instruction to move image data stored in the second storage area to the first storage area.

[0029] Preferably, the second processor receives image data sent from the camera device according to the first instruction, and outputs an image of a list of thumbnail images of the image data to the second monitoring unit based on the image data.

[0030] The camera system of the present invention includes an information processing device connected to the camera device of the present invention described above and having a second monitoring unit and a second processor, wherein the second processor performs any one of the following processes: executing a third instruction to enable image data stored in a second storage area to be displayed on the second monitoring unit; or executing a fourth instruction to move the image data stored in the second storage area to the first storage area.

[0031] The imaging method of the present invention uses an imaging device having a first monitoring unit and a first processor. The imaging method includes the following steps: when the first processor selects a first shooting mode in which the image format is restricted, it outputs user interface information related to photography to the first monitoring unit and restricts the output of live view to the first monitoring unit.

[0032] Preferably, the process includes the following steps: In a first photographic mode, the first processor stores a series of image data obtained by photographing in a second storage area of ​​a recording medium that generates a first storage area conforming to the DCF standard and a second storage area that does not conform to the DCF standard.

[0033] The camera program of the present invention uses a camera device having a first monitoring unit and a first processor. The camera program causes the first processor to perform the following functions: when a first photography mode with a restricted image format is selected, it outputs user interface information related to photography to the first monitoring unit and restricts the output of live view to the first monitoring unit.

[0034] Preferably, the first processor performs the following function: in the first photographic mode, a series of image data obtained by photographing is stored in the second storage area of ​​a recording medium that generates a first storage area conforming to the DCF standard and a second storage area that does not conform to the DCF standard.

[0035] The camera device of the present invention has a first monitoring unit and a first processor. The camera device has a first photography mode that imposes restrictions on digital functions. When the first photography mode is selected, the first processor performs at least two of the following restrictions as restrictions on digital functions: image format restriction, restriction on output of live view on the first monitoring unit, restriction on saving a series of image data obtained by photography in the first photography mode in a form other than a single unit, restriction on the number of shots taken, and restriction on a second photography operation immediately following the first photography operation.

[0036] Invention Effects

[0037] According to the present invention, it is possible to experience the analog feel of a film camera while limiting digital functions. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1This is a frontal side perspective view of the camera device.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view of the rear side of the camera device.

[0040] Figure 3 middle, Figure 3 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing the position of the lever when the power is off. Figure 3 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the positive position of the lever when the power is on. Figure 3 (C) is an explanatory diagram showing the maximum rotation position of the lever during the upwind operation.

[0041] Figure 4 It is a block diagram showing the general structure of the camera device.

[0042] Figure 5 middle, Figure 5 (A) is an image of a monitor displaying the screen in normal mode. Figure 5 (B) is an image of the monitor displaying the screen in film camera mode.

[0043] Figure 6 It is an image displayed on a monitor showing a detailed view of a film camera mode.

[0044] Figure 7 middle, Figure 7 (A) indicates the state when the film camera mode is first activated. Figure 7 (B) indicates the operation of rolling up. Figure 7 (C) is an explanatory diagram showing the area of ​​the screen that cannot be touched after the photography operation has ended.

[0045] Figure 8 This is a rear view of the camera device when photography was performed during the photography operation lock period.

[0046] Figure 9 This is an image of the monitor when a photographic operation was performed during the photographic operation lock period.

[0047] Figure 10 middle, Figure 10 (A) is an image diagram of a monitor displaying the image during film camera mode. Figure 10 (B) is an image of the monitor showing the end selection screen for film camera modes. Figure 10 (C) is an image of a monitor displaying a regular screen.

[0048] Figure 11 middle, Figure 11 (A) is an image of the monitor showing the screen during film camera mode, and (B) is an image of the monitor showing the screen showing the screen when film camera mode ends. Figure 11 (C) is an image of a monitor displaying a regular screen.

[0049] Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram representing a thumbnail image.

[0050] Figure 13 This is a table representing modes 1 to 10 of film camera modes.

[0051] Figure 14 middle, Figure 14 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing the execution of film camera mode. Figure 14 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the end of the film camera mode.

[0052] Figure 15 This is a table that indicates the cases where film camera mode is executed and the cases where film camera mode is terminated based on the first information.

[0053] Figure 16 middle, Figure 16 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing the situation where film camera mode continues after an error message is output. Figure 16 (B) Figure 16 (C) is an explanatory diagram showing the situation where the film camera mode ends after an error message is output.

[0054] Figure 17 This table represents the cases where film camera mode continues and the cases where film camera mode ends, based on the first and second attributes.

[0055] Figure 18 This is an illustration showing the situation where film camera mode is terminated by inserting another memory card.

[0056] Figure 19 This is an explanatory diagram showing the situation where film camera mode is ended by copying files from a memory card.

[0057] Figure 20 middle, Figure 20 (A) Figure 20 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the situation where the film camera mode continues when the power is turned back on. Figure 20 (C) is an explanatory diagram showing the situation where the film camera mode ends when the power is turned back on.

[0058] Figure 21 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the initialization method.

[0059] Figure 22 This is a table representing the cases where film camera mode is executed and the cases where film camera mode is terminated based on the first and second attributes.

[0060] Figure 23 It is a flowchart representing a series of processes in a film camera mode.

[0061] Figure 24 This is an explanatory diagram showing the first and second storage areas set on the memory card.

[0062] Figure 25 This is an illustration of how the first and second directories are generated.

[0063] Figure 26 This is an illustration showing the movement of image data stored in the second storage area to the first storage area.

[0064] Figure 27 This is a conceptual diagram representing a camera system.

[0065] Figure 28 It is a flowchart representing a series of processes based on the third or fourth instruction.

[0066] Figure 29 This is an illustration of a method for storing image data that has undergone invisible or encrypted processing.

[0067] Symbol Explanation

[0068] 10-Camera unit, 11-Camera body, 11A-Handle, 12-Lens barrel, 13-Camera optical system, 14-Mode dial, 15-Release switch, 16-Power switch, 17-Lever, 18-Flash unit, 19-Illumination unit, 21-Imaging element, 22-Display, 23-Electronic viewfinder, 24-Sub-display, 31-Control unit, 32-Shutter unit, 33-Shutter motor, 34-Motor driver, 35-Image memory, 36-Bus, 37-Image data processing unit, 38-Display driver, 41-Card I / F (Interface), 42-Memory card, 50-Non-touchable area, 51-Touchable area, 53-Battery level display, 54-Aperture value display, 55-Shot count display, 56-Shot count display, 57-Lever status display, 5 8-Flash display unit, 59-Date display unit, 60-AF / MF switching unit, 60a-Circular button unit, 61-Date ON / OFF switching unit, 61a-Circular button unit, 62-MF focus operation unit, 62a-Slider, 65-Warning LED, 66-Film camera mode end selection screen, 67-Film image, 68-End selection button, 70-Film camera mode end screen, 71-Message, 73-Thumbnail image group, 100-First storage area, 101-Second storage area, 102-First directory, 103-Second directory, 105, 106-Image data, 107-Management file, 110-Information processing device, 111-Display, 112-Control unit, 115-Camera system, 117-Specific processed image data information, 120-Management file, CL-Center axis, OA-Optical axis. Detailed Implementation

[0069] like Figure 1 As shown, the imaging device 10 includes a camera body 11 and a lens barrel 12. The camera body 11 is a box shape with a horizontal dimension longer than its vertical dimension when viewed from the front. Furthermore, the imaging device 10 is preferably a digital camera or the like.

[0070] When viewed from the front, the camera body 11 has a handle 11A at its left end. The handle 11A is a semi-cylindrical shape that connects to the front and back surfaces of the camera body 11, and is designed for easy gripping by the user. The lens barrel 12 is disposed on the front surface of the camera body 11 and is equipped with an imaging optical system 13. The imaging optical system 13 causes the subject to be imaged onto the imaging element 21 disposed on the optical axis OA.

[0071] The upper surface of the camera body 11 is provided with a mode dial 14, a release switch 15, a power switch 16, and a lever 17. The mode dial 14 is used to switch the exposure level in stages. On the front surface of the camera body 11, in addition to the lens barrel 12, a flash device 18 and an illumination device 19 are also provided. When the imaging device 10 is in still image photography mode and the exposure value of the subject is less than a constant value, or under forced conditions, the flash device 18 illuminates the subject in conjunction with the shutter release. On the other hand, when the imaging device 10 is in video image photography mode, the illumination device 19 always illuminates the subject.

[0072] like Figure 2 As shown, the lever 17 is positioned above the grip 11A. The lever 17 is stacked on top of the mode dial 14 and the release switch 15. The lever 17 is mounted to rotate freely around the central axis CL of the mode dial 14. The lever 17 can be rotated based on the user's input; details regarding the rotation operation will be described later.

[0073] The power switch 16 is a push-button switch, located near the mode dial 14 and lever 17. Pressing the power switch 16 alternates between the power-on and power-off states of the camera device 10.

[0074] The imaging element 21 is built into the camera body 11 (reference). Figure 3 The imaging element 21 is held in a bracket (not shown) and fixed to the image plane side of the lens barrel 12. The imaging element 21 has both still and moving image capture capabilities, and may be, for example, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, or an organic thin-film imaging element. The imaging element 21 is a horizontally oriented imaging element, meaning that the vertical length of the upper surface of the camera body 11 facing upwards is shorter than its horizontal length. However, it is not limited to this; the imaging element 21 may also be a horizontally oriented imaging element, meaning that the vertical length of the upper surface of the camera body 11 facing upwards is longer than its horizontal length.

[0075] On the back of the camera body 11 are a display 22 (first monitoring unit), an electronic viewfinder 23, and a sub-display 24. The display 22 is an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an OLED (Organic Electroluminescent Display), and is composed of a touchscreen capable of user-based touch operation. The display 22 is used for live view display, recorded image display, and setting menu display. In live view display, the recorded image of the subject captured by the imaging element 21 is displayed on the display 22 in real time.

[0076] The sub-display 24 displays information related to image quality, such as color, and, like the display 22, is composed of a touchscreen capable of user-based touch operation. Furthermore, while the display 22 corresponds to the monitoring unit of the technical solution, the monitoring unit may also include an electronic viewfinder 23 or the sub-display 24.

[0077] An electronic viewfinder 23 is located on the upper part of the camera body 11. The live view is displayed in the electronic viewfinder 23, showing the recorded image of the subject captured by the imaging element 21 in real time. The electronic viewfinder 23 can be turned on, off, and switched to the display on the monitor 22 as needed.

[0078] The rotation operation of lever 17 is explained below. Figure 3 As shown in (A), when the power switch 16 is off, the rotation of the lever 17 is restricted by a locking mechanism (not shown) and locked in a position along the back of the camera body 11. The position along the back of the camera body 11 means that, when viewed from above the camera body 11, the lever 17 is in a position where it does not protrude from the back of the camera body 11.

[0079] like Figure 3 As shown in (B), when the power switch 16 is switched from off to on, the rotation restriction on the lever 17 is released, and the lever 17 is set to the positive position, slightly counterclockwise from the back of the camera body 11. The lever 17 is set to the positive position as long as the user does not operate it. Furthermore, as... Figure 3 As shown in (C), the lever 17 can be rotated from the positive position to a counterclockwise direction for an up-winding operation. This rotation is used to unlock the photographic operation in film camera mode (the unlocking of the photographic operation will be described later).

[0080] Specifically, regarding the winding operation of lever 17, the user hooks their finger onto lever 17 and moves it counterclockwise, thus rotating lever 17. Then, after lever 17 has rotated a constant angle, if the finger applied to lever 17 is released, lever 17, under the force of a spring, automatically rotates clockwise back to the correct position. This ends the winding operation.

[0081] The electrical configuration of the camera device 10 will be explained below. Figure 4 As shown, the control unit 31 is composed of a microcomputer having a CPU, a ROM (Read Only Memory) containing programs or parameters used in the CPU, and RAM (Random Access Memory) used as the working memory of the CPU (all not shown), and functions as the first processor for controlling each part of the camera device 10.

[0082] When the lever 17 is rotated, a signal detecting the amount of rotation is sent to the control unit 31. Furthermore, the control unit 31 receives a mode switching signal from the mode dial 14, a release signal from the release switch 15, and a power on / off signal from the power switch 16.

[0083] The shutter unit 32, for example a focal plane shutter, is disposed between the imaging optical system 13 and the imaging element 21. The shutter unit 32 is configured to block the light path between the imaging optical system 13 and the imaging element 21, and changes between an open state and a closed state. This shutter unit 32 is driven by a shutter motor 33. A motor driver 34 controls the driving of the shutter motor 33.

[0084] The shutter unit 32 is set to the open state when capturing live view images and moving images. When capturing still images, the shutter unit 32 can change from an open state to a closed state without operating the release switch 15, and conversely, it can change from a closed state to an open state when the release switch 15 is operated. Furthermore, the shutter unit 32 operates in the same manner when capturing preview images in moving image shooting mode as when capturing moving images, and in the same manner when capturing preview images in still image shooting mode as when capturing still images.

[0085] Imaging element 21 is driven and controlled by control unit 31. Imaging element 21 has a light-receiving surface composed of multiple pixels (not shown) arranged in a two-dimensional matrix. Each pixel includes a photoelectric conversion element that performs photoelectric conversion on the image of the subject image imaged on the light-receiving surface by imaging optical system 13 to generate an imaging signal.

[0086] Furthermore, the imaging element 21 includes signal processing circuits such as a noise cancellation circuit, an automatic gain controller, and an A / D conversion circuit (none of which are shown). The noise cancellation circuit performs noise cancellation processing on the captured signal. The automatic gain controller amplifies the level of the captured signal to the optimal value. The A / D conversion circuit converts the captured signal into a digital signal and outputs it from the imaging element 21 to the bus 36. The output signal of the imaging element 21 is image data (so-called RAW data) with one color signal per pixel.

[0087] Image memory 35 stores one frame of image data output to bus 36. Image data processing unit 37 reads one frame of image data from image memory 35 and performs known image processing such as matrix operations, demosaic processing, gamma correction, brightness / color difference conversion, and resizing.

[0088] The display driver 38 sequentially inputs one frame of image data processed by the image data processing unit 37 to the display 22 or the electronic viewfinder 23. The display 22 sequentially displays live view images at a constant period, for example. The display 22 is touch-operable; by touching the operation icons (not shown) displayed on the display 22, operations and selections corresponding to the operation icons can be performed.

[0089] The card I / F (Interface) 41 is assembled in a card slot (not shown) provided in the camera body 11 and is electrically connected to a memory card 42 inserted into the card slot. The user can insert and remove the memory card 42 from the card slot. Specifically, the card I / F 41 stores image data processed by the image data processing unit 37 into the memory card 42. Furthermore, when playing back the image data stored in the memory card 42, the card I / F 41 reads the image data from the memory card 42. Additionally, the image recording unit is not limited to a structure that records on a recording medium such as a memory card; it can also be a recording device such as an SSI (Solid State Drive).

[0090] The camera device 10 has multiple shooting modes, including a normal mode (second shooting mode) and a film camera mode (first shooting mode). The normal mode includes still image shooting mode and moving image shooting mode. The film camera mode is a mode with restricted image formats, designed to experience and reproduce the simulated feel of a film camera. Regarding switching from normal mode to film camera mode, as follows... Figure 5 As shown, by touching the sub-display 24, the display 22 switches from the normal mode screen shown in (A) to the film camera mode screen shown in (B). Furthermore, regarding the switch from film camera mode to normal mode, the switch occurs when the film camera mode selection ends or when the number of shots taken in film camera mode reaches a predetermined number.

[0091] When film camera mode is selected, the control unit 31 outputs user interface information related to photography to the display 22, and restricts live view output to the display 22. Specifically, as follows: Figure 6 As shown, in the display area of ​​the monitor 22, there is a non-touchable area 50 displaying user interface information related to photography, such as the number of shots taken, and a touchable area 51 displaying user-touchable information, such as manual focus. Furthermore, output limitations on the live view monitor 22 include not displaying the live view image on the monitor 22 during film camera mode, as in normal mode. Also, in film camera mode, it is preferable to restrict moving images in the image format from being displayed on the monitor 22.

[0092] Additionally, the "PROVIA" displayed on the sub-display 24 is a film simulation function that allows the color rendering or contrast to be changed according to photographic intent, much like changing film in a camera. By touching the sub-display 24, it is also possible to switch to film simulations other than "PROVIA" (e.g., "VELVIA").

[0093] In the non-touchable area 50, a battery level display 53, an aperture value display 54, a number of shots display 55, a number of shots remaining display 56, a lever status display 57, a flash display 58, and a date display 59 are displayed. The battery level display 53 uses vertical lines within a battery shape to indicate the remaining battery level. The more vertical lines, the more battery power remaining. The aperture value display 54 displays the aperture value numerically. The number of shots display 55 displays the current number of shots. The number of shots remaining display 56 indicates the number of shots preset at the start of film camera mode. For example, the number of shots remaining is preferably set to 72, 36, or 24 shots, corresponding to the number of shots allowed on the camera film.

[0094] The lever status display 57 indicates whether the winding operation of lever 17 has been performed in film camera mode. Details of the lever status display 57 will be described later. The flash indicator 58 displays "ON" when the flash device 18 is on and "OFF" when the flash device 18 is off. The date display 59 displays the current date; in film camera mode, the displayed date is overlaid on the image.

[0095] The touch-operable area 51 displays the AF / MF switch 60, the date ON / OFF switch 61, and the MF focus operation unit 62. In the AF / MF switch 60, the circular button 60a can be slid left or right. Sliding the circular button 60a to the left switches to AF (Auto Focus), and sliding it to the right switches to MF (Manual Focus). By switching to MF, the MF focus operation unit 62 can be operated.

[0096] The date ON / OFF switching unit 61 allows for pressing the circular button 61a, which switches between ON and OFF modes. When the date is ON, the center of the circular button 61a is illuminated, and the displayed date overlaps with the date display unit 59 during each shot. Conversely, when the date is OFF, the center of the circular button 61a is off. In this case, the date will not overlap even during a shot.

[0097] The MF focus operation unit 62 has a slider 62a, and the focus is set by sliding the slider 62a left and right. The MF focus operation unit 62 can set the focus to "0.3m", "1m", "3m", and "5m". At "0.3m", an example of focusing on the face of one person is displayed; at "1m", an example of focusing on the upper body of one person is displayed; at "3m", an example of focusing on the upper bodies of two people is displayed; and at "5m", an example of focusing on a landscape painting is displayed. By setting the slider 62a at each of the "0.3m", "1m", "3m", and "5m" positions, the corresponding focus can be set.

[0098] In film camera mode, control unit 31 locks the photographic operation based on release switch 15 (first component) and unlocks it by operating lever 17 (second component). On the other hand, when the lock is released, control unit 31 outputs information indicating that the photographic operation based on release switch 15 is valid as user interface information. Furthermore, when a photographic operation based on release switch 15 is performed, control unit 31 outputs information related to the number of shots as user interface information. Additionally, control unit 31 restricts the output of captured image data to display 22.

[0099] Specifically, such as Figure 7As shown in (A), when switching from normal mode to film camera mode, the lever status display 57 displays "--" indicating that the up-wind operation of lever 17 has not been performed. Furthermore, the shot count display 55 displays the current shot count as "0". In this state, the photography operation based on release switch 15 is locked; even if release switch 15 is operated, still image acquisition and memory card 42 saving will not occur.

[0100] Then, as Figure 7 As shown in (B), by performing the up-roll operation of the lever 17, the lever status display unit 57 displays "OK" indicating that the up-roll operation of the lever 17 has been performed. The "OK" display on the lever status display unit 57 indicates that the photographic operation based on the release switch 15 is valid. In this state, the lock of the photographic operation based on the release switch 15 is released, and the release switch 15 is operated to acquire still images and save them to the memory card 42. Then, if the photographic operation is completed, then... Figure 7 As shown in (C), the shot count display unit 55 changes the current shot count from "0" to "1", and the lever status display unit 57 returns to "--" due to the roll-up operation being reset. Furthermore, at the end of the shooting operation, the display 22 maintains the display of the film camera mode user interface information (areas that cannot be touched and areas that can be touched), but does not display the image data after shooting.

[0101] Furthermore, the control unit 31 preferably outputs a message indicating that the photography operation is invalid if photography is performed during the locked period of the photography operation. Specifically, as follows: Figure 8 As shown, to indicate that the photographic operation is invalid, it is preferable to flash the warning LED 65 (Light Emitting Diode) located on the left side of the electronic viewfinder 23. Furthermore, as... Figure 9 As shown, to indicate that the photography operation is invalid, it is preferable to make the "--" on the lever status display 57 flash.

[0102] When the film camera mode is selected to end, the preferred control unit 31 saves the series of image data obtained through photography in units on the memory card 42 (recording medium). Furthermore, when the film camera mode ends, the control unit 31 switches to normal mode, where the output restriction to the display 22 is lifted.

[0103] Specifically, such as Figure 10 As shown in (A), when the film camera mode is terminated midway, a prescribed touch operation is performed on the sub-display 24 to switch the film camera mode to the end screen. Thus, as... Figure 10As shown in (B), a film camera mode end selection screen 66 is displayed on the monitor 22. The film camera mode end selection screen 66 displays a film image 67 indicating that the series of image data obtained through photography is saved in units, and an end selection button 68. By touching the end selection button 68, the film camera mode ends, and the series of image data obtained through photography is saved in units on the memory card 42. Thus, as... Figure 10 As shown in (C), switch to normal mode, deactivate the live view on display 22, and thus display the live view on display 22.

[0104] In film camera mode, when the number of shots reaches a predetermined number, the preferred control unit 31 disables the locking of both the shooting operation based on the release switch 15 and the shooting operation based on the lever 17. Furthermore, in film camera mode, when the predetermined number of shots reaches the predetermined number, the control unit 31 preferably saves a series of image data obtained through photography in units on the memory card 42. When film camera mode ends, the control unit 31 switches to normal mode, where the output restriction to the display 22 is lifted. Additionally, the predetermined number of shots, as one of the user interface information, is output to the display 22 as the number of shots that can be taken.

[0105] Specifically, such as Figure 11 As shown in (A), when the number of shots reaches the maximum of "72" shots, the lever status display 57 displays "OFF," indicating that the photographic operation based on the roll-up operation of the lever 17 is invalid. Correspondingly, the photographic operation based on the release switch 15 is also invalidated. Then, after a certain period of time, as... Figure 11 As shown in (B), a film camera mode end screen 70 is displayed on the monitor 22. The film camera mode end screen 70 displays a film image 67 indicating that a series of image data obtained through photography will be saved as a single unit, and a message 71 indicating the end of film camera mode. Thus, film camera mode ends, and the series of image data obtained through photography is saved as a single unit in memory card 42. Then, through click operations, etc., such as... Figure 11 As shown in (C), the display 22 switches to normal mode, deactivates the live view on the display 22, and thus displays the live view on the display 22.

[0106] Furthermore, in film camera mode, the series of image data obtained through photography is preferably stored in memory card 42 in a single unit, which limits the display on monitor 22. For example, such as Figure 12As shown, the image data is stored in the memory card 42 as a series of thumbnail images, representing each of the images taken so far as thumbnails. During film camera mode, the thumbnail image group 73 is subject to a display restriction on the display 22, so it will not be displayed on the display 22 even if the playback button (not shown) is operated. On the other hand, when film camera mode ends, the display restriction on the thumbnail image group 73 is lifted, allowing the thumbnail image group 73 to be displayed on the display 22.

[0107] Furthermore, the film camera mode is preferably a mode that restricts the digital functions of the imaging device 10. Preferably, the control unit 31 imposes at least two of the following restrictions as limitations on the digital functions: image format restriction, restriction on live view output on the display 22, restriction on saving a series of image data obtained through photography in the film camera mode in a format other than a single unit, a restriction on the number of shots taken, and a restriction on a second photography operation immediately following the first photography operation. In this embodiment, while saving data in formats other than a single unit (film image unit) is restricted in the film camera mode, in the event of a subsequent reshoot in the film camera mode, the amount of subsequent image data from the reshoot can be appended to the single unit of data saved in the previous film camera mode.

[0108] Specifically, image format restrictions preferably allow still images and restrict moving images. Live view output restrictions on display 22 preferably do not display the live view on display 22. Regarding the limitation on saving a series of image data obtained through photography in film camera mode in a format other than a single unit, it is preferable to prohibit saving in a format other than thumbnail image group 73. Regarding the limitation on the number of shots, it is preferable to prohibit shooting beyond the number of shots set at the start of film camera mode. Regarding the limitation on the second photography operation immediately following the first photography operation, it is preferable to prohibit continuous photography operations based on the release switch 15 for photography operations based on the release switch 15, and after the first photography operation is performed, the second photography operation is allowed after the photography operation is unlocked by the roll-up operation based on the lever 17.

[0109] Regarding film camera modes, such as Figure 13As shown, ten modes, from Mode 1 to Mode 10, can be set. Mode 1 of the film camera mode restricts both the image format (image format restriction) and the output of live view data to the display 22 (monitor output restriction). Mode 2 of the film camera mode restricts both the image format and the format for saving a series of image data obtained through photography in the film camera mode, based on a format other than a single unit (save restriction). Mode 3 of the film camera mode preferably restricts both the image format and the second photography operation immediately following the first photography operation (photography operation restriction).

[0110] Film camera mode 4 preferably implements two restrictions: monitor output and save. Film camera mode 5 preferably implements two restrictions: monitor output and shooting operation. Film camera mode 6 preferably implements two restrictions: save and shooting operation. Film camera mode 7 preferably implements three restrictions: image format, monitor output, and save. Film camera mode 8 preferably implements three restrictions: image format, monitor output, and shooting operation. Film camera mode 9 preferably implements three restrictions: monitor output, save, and shooting operation. Film camera mode 10 preferably implements four restrictions: image format, monitor output, save, and shooting operation.

[0111] As mentioned above, in film camera mode, the captured image cannot be immediately confirmed, thus enabling the enjoyment characteristic of film cameras, such as "the anticipation of not knowing the result before development" or "the experience of obtaining an image different from the expected result." Furthermore, even now, there is a growing user base acquiring new film cameras, and new film cameras continue to be released. Therefore, including a film camera mode fully satisfies the market demand and expectations of users who enjoy the shooting experience of film cameras and want to continue using them.

[0112] Regarding the film camera mode (first photography mode), the control unit 31 controls its execution, continuation, and termination. The control unit 31 acquires first information related to the insertion or removal of the memory card 42 (recording medium) that records the video data of the imaging device 10, and restricts the film camera mode related to the function of the imaging device 10 based on the first information. Preferably, the first information includes information on the insertion or removal status of the memory card 42. In addition, in this embodiment, the restriction of the film camera mode is set to the termination of the film camera mode, but the restriction of the film camera mode also includes the case where only a part of the functions of the film camera mode are suspended and other functions are executed.

[0113] Specifically, when activating the film camera mode, the control unit 31 preferably performs either the execution of the film camera mode or the restriction of the film camera mode based on the first information, i.e., the first control. As described above, the film camera mode is activated by touching the sub-display 24. Figure 14 In, such as Figure 14 As shown in (A), when the first information is that the memory card 42 is inserted (see reference...), the control unit 31... Figure 15 ), execute film camera mode. On the other hand, in Figure 14 In, such as Figure 14 As shown in (B), when the first information is that the memory card 42 is removed (refer to...) Figure 15 ), ending film camera mode.

[0114] Here, in Figure 14 In the figures, a rectangular solid-line frame containing "SD card" indicates the memory card 42 is inserted, and a rectangular solid-line frame containing "-" indicates the memory card 42 is removed. The camera graphic represents the imaging device 10. These insertion / removal states and camera markings are the same in other figures. Furthermore, while an SD card is used as the memory card 42 in this embodiment, other recording media (such as USB memory) may also be used.

[0115] Next, when the film camera mode is executed, the control unit 31 preferably outputs an error message based on the first information. The error message can be displayed on the display 22 or delivered via voice, for example. After outputting the error message, the control unit 31 preferably performs either the continuation of the film camera mode or the restriction of the film camera mode, i.e., the second control, based on the first information.

[0116] Specifically, in Figure 16 In, such as Figure 16 (A) Figure 16 (B) Figure 16 As shown in (C), during film camera mode, when the first information changes from the inserted state to the uninserted state, an error message is output to the imaging device 10. After the error message is output, as... Figure 16 (A) and Figure 16 As shown in (B), when the memory card 42 is inserted and the first information is in the inserted state, either the continuation of the film camera mode or the end of the film camera mode is controlled. On the other hand, as Figure 16 As shown in (C), if the memory card 42 is not inserted after a certain period of time and the first information remains in the unplugged state, the control to end the film camera mode is performed.

[0117] As control is performed after an error message is output, it is preferable that, if the first message is in the insertion state, the control unit 31 determines whether the first attribute assigned to the memory card 42 by the execution of the film camera mode exists. For example... Figure 17 As shown, with the first attribute present, the film camera mode continues (see reference). Figure 16 In (A)), if the first attribute does not exist, the film camera mode ends (see reference). Figure 16 (B)). Additionally, as... Figure 18 As shown, the case where the first attribute does not exist is, for example, the following situation: the memory card 42 that is inserted again is a different card from the memory card 42 before it was inserted.

[0118] Regarding attribute 1, as a management file, it is created within memory card 42 upon initial startup in film camera mode (see reference). Figure 24 The management file 107 includes, in addition to the first attribute, the second attribute described later. Preferably, the management file includes the start date and time of film camera mode, the end date and time, the number of shots that can be taken at the start of film camera mode, the memory card capacity at the start of film camera mode, and the film simulation / filter settings for film camera mode.

[0119] Furthermore, as control is performed after an error message is output, it is preferable that the control unit 31 determines the presence or absence of the first attribute when the first message is in an inserted state. For example... Figure 17 As shown, if the first attribute exists and no external change (no change) is applied to the second attribute of the data assigned to the memory card 42 in association with the history record, the film camera mode continues (see reference). Figure 16 (A)). On the other hand, if the first attribute exists and the second attribute has been changed externally (there is a change), the film camera mode ends (see reference). Figure 16 (B) in the text. Additionally, as in... Figure 19 As shown, the second attribute may be modified from the outside, for example, by copying, deleting, or modifying files / folders inside the memory card 42.

[0120] In addition, as a method for determining whether a change has been applied from the outside, for example, regarding the card capacity of the memory card 42 after it is reinserted, preferably, the capacity obtained by subtracting the image data capacity of the number of shots taken so far from the memory card capacity at the start of the film camera mode (which is one of the second attributes) falls within a specified range, it is determined that there is no change, and if it does not fall within the specified range, it is determined that there is a change.

[0121] Additionally, as an example of continuing film camera mode after outputting an error message, the following situation exists:

[0122] • Inserting the removed memory card directly without performing any data operations 42

[0123] • Delete some image files except those in the current film camera mode and insert a memory card 42.

[0124] On the other hand, as an example of ending film camera mode after outputting an error message, the following situation exists:

[0125] • Delete a portion of the image file taken in the current film camera mode and insert the memory card 42.

[0126] Insert another memory card 42 that has the same folder structure as the memory card 42.

[0127] • Insert a memory card containing some files 42

[0128] • Delete the management files and insert the memory card 42

[0129] • Delete all image files and insert the memory card 42

[0130] Insert another memory card 42

[0131] • Insert cloned memory card 42

[0132] • Copy protection and inserting the same memory card 42

[0133] • Insert a memory card 42 used in other camera devices (smaller than the memory card capacity used for shooting).

[0134] • Replace with memory card 42 used in another camera device during film camera mode.

[0135] Furthermore, it is preferable to perform the following: when the film camera mode is executed, when the power supply of the imaging device 10 is turned off and then turned back on, the control unit 31 performs either the continuation of the film camera mode or the restriction of the film camera mode based on the first information, i.e., the third control.

[0136] Specifically, in Figure 20 In, such as Figure 20 (A) Figure 20 (B) Figure 20 As shown in (C), during film camera mode, when the power is turned off, as shown in (A), the first information is kept inserted while the same memory card 42 is inserted until the power is turned on again, and film camera mode continues. Figure 20 (B) Figure 20As shown in (C), when the memory card 42 is removed after the power is off and then inserted when the power is on, thereby changing the first information from the inserted state to the removed state, the control unit 31 performs either the continuation of the film camera mode or the restriction of the film camera mode.

[0137] As a control measure when the power is reconnected, if the power to the camera device 10 is turned off and then reconnected, the control unit 31 preferably determines whether the first attribute is present or not. For example... Figure 17 As shown, with the first attribute present, the film camera mode continues (see reference). Figure 20 In (B) of the above, if the first attribute does not exist, the film camera mode will end (see reference). Figure 20 (C) in the middle.

[0138] Furthermore, as a control measure when the power is reconnected, if the power to the camera device 10 is switched off and then reconnected, the control unit 31 preferably determines whether the first attribute is present or absent. For example... Figure 17 As shown, if the first attribute exists and no external changes have been made to the second attribute (no changes), the film camera mode continues (see reference). Figure 20 (B)). On the other hand, if the first attribute exists and the second attribute has been changed externally (there is a change), the film camera mode ends (see reference). Figure 20 (C) in the middle.

[0139] Additionally, as an example of continuing film camera mode when the power is off during film camera mode, the following situation exists:

[0140] • After removing the memory card 42, do not perform any operations on the data, directly insert the removed memory card 42 and turn the power ON.

[0141] • After removing memory card 42, insert memory card 42 (with a portion of the image files deleted except for the current film camera mode) and turn the power ON.

[0142] On the other hand, as an example of the film camera mode ending when the power is turned off and the memory card 42 is removed during film camera mode, the following situation exists:

[0143] • Insert memory card 42, which deletes a portion of the image files taken in the current film camera mode, and set the power to ON.

[0144] Insert another memory card 42 with the same overall folder structure as the memory card 42, and turn the power on.

[0145] Insert the memory card 42 containing some files and turn the power ON.

[0146] Insert the memory card 42 with deleted management files and turn the power ON.

[0147] Insert the memory card 42 with all image files deleted and turn the power ON.

[0148] Insert another memory card 42 and turn the power ON.

[0149] Insert the cloned memory card 42 and turn the power ON.

[0150] Insert the same copy-protected memory card 42 and turn the power on.

[0151] • Do not insert the memory card 42 and turn the power ON

[0152] • After turning the power ON, the same memory card 42 was inserted.

[0153] Insert the memory card 42 used in other camera devices and turn the power ON (to a capacity smaller than the memory card used for recording).

[0154] Replace the memory card 42 in film camera mode on another camera device and turn the power ON.

[0155] Furthermore, it is preferable to end the film camera mode even when the power is turned off and the battery is removed in film camera mode.

[0156] Next, when the film camera mode is terminated, the control unit 31 preferably performs initialization related to the film camera mode. For example... Figure 21 As shown, the initialization process is preferably as follows: The use of a first setting value already set in the first shot in film camera mode for a second setting value set in the second shot in the next film camera mode is stopped. Through initialization, the setting values ​​used in the previous film camera mode will not be used again in the next film camera mode (they are reset). Here, the first or second setting value may include, for example, the number of shots, the type of film simulation, the exposure set via the mode dial 14, the aperture value, etc. Furthermore, when ending film camera mode, normal mode is automatically executed (see reference). Figure 10 , Figure 11 Therefore, a new startup operation is required to initiate the next film camera mode.

[0157] Furthermore, the execution and termination of the film camera mode can be controlled based on information different from the first information. When the memory card 42 is inserted, the control unit 31 can acquire second information related to the attributes of the memory card 42 and restrict the film camera mode based on this second information. Specifically, the preferred attributes include either the first attribute assigned to the memory card 42 by executing the film camera mode or the second attribute of the data assigned to the memory card 42 in association with the record. The same applies to the first and second attributes as described above.

[0158] like Figure 22 As shown, when the first attribute exists regarding the second information, or when the first attribute exists regarding the second information and the second attribute has not been changed, the film camera mode is executed when a memory card 42 is inserted. On the other hand, when the first attribute does not exist regarding the second information, or when the first attribute exists regarding the second information and the second attribute has been changed, the film camera mode is terminated.

[0159] Next, according to Figure 23 The flowchart below describes the imaging method of the present invention. The user activates the film camera mode by touching the sub-display 24. The film camera mode is a photographic mode where the image format is restricted. The control unit 31 acquires first information related to the insertion or removal of the memory card 42 that records the imaging data of the imaging device 10, and performs a step of restricting the film camera mode based on the first information. In the film camera mode restriction step, when the first information indicates that the memory card 42 is inserted, the control unit 31 executes the film camera mode. On the other hand, when the first information indicates that the memory card 42 is removed, the control unit 31 terminates the film camera mode.

[0160] When film camera mode is selected, user interface information related to photography is output to display 22, and live view output to display 22 is restricted. During film camera mode, the display of user interface information and the restriction on live view output continue. Then, when film camera mode is terminated, the system switches from film camera mode to normal mode. By switching to normal mode, live view is displayed on display 22.

[0161] In addition, in the imaging method of the present invention, it is preferable to perform the following steps: in film camera mode, a series of image data obtained by photography is stored in the second storage area of ​​a memory card 42 which generates a first storage area 100 that conforms to the DCF standard and a second storage area 101 that does not conform to the DCF standard.

[0162] Furthermore, the camera program of the present invention is a program for the control unit 31 to perform the following functions: outputting user interface information related to photography to the display 22, and restricting the output of live view to the display 22. Preferably, the camera program of the present invention is installed on the camera device 10 via a network or the like after the camera device 10 is shipped, except when it is installed during the manufacturing process of the camera device 10.

[0163] In addition, in the camera program of the present invention, the control unit 31 preferably also performs the function of saving a series of image data obtained by photography in film camera mode to the second storage area of ​​the memory card 42 which generates a first storage area 100 that conforms to the DCF standard and a second storage area 101 that does not conform to the DCF standard.

[0164] Furthermore, in film camera mode, to limit display on monitor 22, a series of image data obtained during film camera mode photography is saved using a different method than that used in normal mode. For example... Figure 24 As shown, in film camera mode, the control unit 31 saves a series of image data obtained through photography in the second storage area 101 of the memory card 42, which has a first storage area 100 conforming to the DCF standard and a second storage area 101 not conforming to the DCF standard. Therefore, the image data in film camera mode is not displayed on the display 22. Furthermore, the format of the saved image data is set to a common image format, preferably one that can be accessed and viewed through either a dedicated application or a general-purpose device.

[0165] Specifically, in film camera mode, control unit 31 saves a series of image data 105 obtained through photography in a second directory 103 generated in the second storage area 101 that does not conform to the DCF standard. The filenames of the image data saved in the second directory 103 preferably include, in addition to a number indicating the shooting order, a way to identify the film camera mode (e.g., FCM). Figure 24 (FCM001, FCM002, FCM003, etc.). Furthermore, a management file 107 is generated under the second directory 103, recording information related to the image data. As described above, the management file 107 is used for determining the recovery of the film camera mode when the memory card 42 is inserted or removed during film camera mode, etc.

[0166] On the other hand, the control unit 31 saves the image data 106 acquired in normal mode under the first directory 102 of the first storage area 100. The filenames of the image data saved under the first directory 102 preferably include a number indicating the shooting order (in...). Figure 24 (The numbers in the middle are 001, 002, 003, etc.).

[0167] Each time the film camera mode is selected, the control unit 31 generates a second directory 103 in the second storage area 101. Similarly, each time the normal mode is selected, the control unit 31 generates a first directory 102 in the first storage area 100. The first directory 102 and the second directory 103 are distinguishable from each other. Therefore, the first directory 102 and the second directory 103 are hierarchically organized according to the same rules. Specifically, regarding the directory numbers of the first directory 102 and the second directory 103, each time either the normal mode or the film camera mode is selected, a new number is issued in a manner that does not repeat the already issued directory number. In addition, regarding the second storage area 101, in addition to being hierarchically organized according to the same rules as the first storage area 100, it can also be organized according to its own directory structure and naming rules, and a part of the directory structure and naming rules of the DCF standard can also be applied.

[0168] For example, firstly, if the selection is made in the order of Normal Mode, Normal Mode, Film Camera Mode, Film Camera Mode, such as Figure 25 As shown, after generating the first directory 102a with issuance number "100" in the first storage area 100, the first directory 102b with issuance number "101" is generated. Then, the second directory 103a with issuance number "102" is generated in the second storage area 101, and then the second directory 103b with issuance number "103" is generated. As described above, each directory is distinguishable because of its different number, and even if the second directory 103 is moved to the first storage area 100, it will not duplicate the first directory 102 already in the first storage area 100, so no overwriting or the like will occur.

[0169] Upon receiving a first instruction, the control unit 31 can display the image data stored in the second storage area 101 on the display 22 according to the first instruction. Preferably, the first instruction is an end instruction for film camera mode. Thus, the control unit 31 outputs a list of image data consisting of thumbnail images of the image data to the display 22. The list of image data preferably consists of the aforementioned thumbnail image group 73 (see reference). Figure 12 In addition, the first instruction can come not only from the camera device 10, but also from the information processing device (see reference). Figure 27 Instructions for external devices such as the information processing device 110.

[0170] And, as Figure 26 As shown, when a second instruction is given from an external device, the control unit 31 moves the image data stored in the second storage area 101 to the first storage area 100 according to the second instruction. The external device is a device other than the camera device 10, and is a device connected to the camera device 10 via wired or wireless means; for example, it is preferably an information processing device such as a smartphone (see reference). Figure 27 The information processing device 110). The second instruction is an instruction to move image data from the second storage area 101 in the memory card 42 to the first storage area 100. Thus, instead of receiving an instruction from the camera device 10, an instruction from an external device can move image data in film camera mode to the first storage area 100 and display it on the display 22. In addition to the physical movement of image data, the processing based on the second instruction also includes structural movements such as changes in attributes. Furthermore, in addition to image data, the second instruction can also move the management file 107 to the first storage area 100.

[0171] As described above, by saving the image data acquired in film camera mode, the image cannot be immediately reviewed during film camera mode execution, thus enabling a photographic experience similar to that of a film camera. On the other hand, after film camera mode ends, instead of using dedicated equipment or applications requiring continuous maintenance and operating costs, the image can be reviewed directly through a general-purpose device such as a personal computer, providing a method for reviewing images to users with limited equipment or environments. This also provides image review opportunities to a wide range of users, including those in countries where smartphone operating systems are not widely available, and those who own smartphones but do not have computers. Furthermore, image review can be performed not only through general-purpose devices but also through dedicated devices and applications, and even through devices or applications capable of processing digital images.

[0172] like Figure 27 As shown, image data obtained by photography in film camera mode using the imaging device 10 can be transmitted to and displayed on an information processing device 110 other than the imaging device 10. The information processing device 110 is a smartphone or similar device, having a display 111 (second monitoring unit) and a control unit 112, and is connected to the imaging device 10 via wired or wireless means. The control unit 112 has the same functions as the control unit 31 and is configured as a second processor. An application is stored in the information processing device 110, and the control unit 112 executes the application. As described above, by combining the imaging device 10 and the information processing device 110, an imaging system 115 is constructed that can display image data obtained by the imaging device 10 on the information processing device 110. Furthermore, when transmitting images from the imaging device 10, by displaying an effect such as film development during transmission in an application on the information processing device 110, the transmission process for the user is identified as a development process, thereby providing a photographic experience similar to that of a film camera.

[0173] The control unit 112 performs one of the following: executes a third instruction to enable the image data stored in the second storage area 101 to be displayed on the display 111; or executes a fourth instruction to move the image data stored in the second storage area 101 to the first storage area.

[0174] Specifically, such as Figure 28 As shown in the flowchart, when the information processing device 110 is connected to the camera device 10, and the user selects the third instruction, image data from the first storage area 100 and the second storage area 101 are sent from the camera device 10 according to the third instruction. The information processing device 110 receives the image data sent from the camera device 10. If the reception of the image data is completed, the control unit 112 outputs a list image data consisting of thumbnail images of the image data to the display 111 based on the image data. The list image data is generated based on the image data from the second storage area 101. Preferably, the thumbnail image group 73 (see reference) is used as the list image data. Figure 12 ).

[0175] On the other hand, when the information processing device 110 is connected to the camera device 10, and the user executes the fourth instruction, image data sent from the camera device 10 is received, similar to the third instruction. If the reception of image data ends, the control unit 112 moves the image data stored in the second storage area 101 to the first storage area 100. As a result, image data obtained in film camera mode can be displayed on the display 111.

[0176] Furthermore, as described above, in film camera mode, in addition to storing a series of image data obtained through photography in the second storage area 101 of memory card 42, the display of image data obtained in film camera mode can be further restricted. Specifically, as... Figure 29 As shown, the control unit 31 performs specific processing on the image data acquired in film camera mode, including either non-visualization processing or encryption processing on the memory card 42. The image data that has undergone specific processing is saved as specially processed image data information 117 in the second storage area 101 of the memory card 42. When saved to the second storage area 101, a management file 120 recording information related to the image data is created. In addition, non-visualization processing may include setting it as a hidden file, saving it as RAW data, etc. (the image format of the image data saved in the first storage area 100 is preferably JPEG, etc.).

[0177] The management file 120 contains at least one of the following: the presence or absence of image data that has undergone non-visualization or encryption processing, information about the time of capture, or information for decrypting encrypted images. Additionally, it is preferable that the specific processed image data information 117 also includes information related to the second directory 103 where it is stored. Furthermore, the management file 120 can also be stored in the first storage area 100 in addition to the second storage area 101, but since it needs to control visualization or encryption processing and needs to be set to a visible state, it is not included in the specific processed image data 117.

[0178] Furthermore, similarly to the above, image data obtained through photography in the film camera mode based on the imaging device 10 can be transmitted to the information processing device 110 and displayed (see reference). Figure 27 The control unit 112 of the information processing device 110 performs any of the following processes on the image data stored in the second storage area 101: executes a fifth instruction to perform a process to make the non-visualized image data visible; or executes a sixth instruction to restore the encrypted image data.

[0179] Specifically, when the information processing device 110 is connected to the camera device 10, and the user executes the fifth instruction, image data from the first storage area 100 and the second storage area 101 are sent from the camera device 10 according to the fifth instruction. The information processing device 110 receives the image data sent from the camera device 10. If the reception of the image data is completed, the control unit 112 performs visualization processing on the non-visualized image data and outputs an image to the display 111 based on the visualized image data.

[0180] Furthermore, when the information processing device 110 is connected to the camera device 10, and the user executes the sixth instruction, image data from the first storage area 100 and the second storage area 101 are transmitted from the camera device 10 according to the fifth instruction. The information processing device 110 receives the image data transmitted from the camera device 10. If the reception of the image data is completed, the control unit 112 decrypts the encrypted image data and outputs an image to the display 111 based on the decrypted image data.

[0181] Furthermore, to improve the limited reproduction capability of the film camera based on the camera device 10, there is a method where image data acquired in film camera mode is not only saved to the second storage area 101, but also recorded in all invisible states, allowing the user to only confirm the existence of the captured image, and displaying it only when using a specific device, thus reflecting various technologies, and allowing the user to display the image using a certain device. As one method, in this embodiment, non-visualization processing and encryption processing are performed, and information such as these non-visualization processing methods can be managed by managing file records. Therefore, the method for saving film camera mode can maintain scalability and versatility, thus allowing it to follow user expectations or market trends, preventing the obsolescence of functions, and preventing the loss of sales opportunities related to specification changes.

[0182] In this embodiment, each process is executed by any computer. Furthermore, any computer can execute these processes via a processor, a program, or a combination thereof. Any computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a workstation, or other hardware components capable of executing programs.

[0183] The processor can be composed of one or more hardware components, and the type of hardware is not limited. For example, the processor can be composed of programmable logic devices such as CPUs (Central Processing Units), MPUs (Micro Processing Units), FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), dedicated circuits for performing specific processes such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), or NPUs (Neural Processing Units). Furthermore, the processor has units or methods for executing the various processes described in this embodiment. The type of hardware can be a combination of different types of hardware. When multiple hardware components are configured to execute one or more processes of a certain processor, these multiple hardware components can exist in physically separate devices or in the same device. Furthermore, in any embodiment, the order of the processor's processes is not limited to the above order and can be appropriately varied. Additionally, the hardware can be composed of circuits composed of semiconductor elements and other circuit elements.

[0184] Furthermore, this embodiment can be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. Software, firmware, and microcode consist of programs. Furthermore, a program can be, for example, a group of program modules, each of whose functions can be implemented by a processor configured to perform its respective function. A program can be program code or multiple code segments stored on one or more non-transitory computer-readable media (e.g., recording media or other storage devices). A program can be divided and stored on multiple non-transitory computer-readable media existing in physically separate devices. Program code or code segments can represent any combination of sequences, functions, subroutines, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, classes or commands, data structures, or program statements. Program code or code segments can be connected to other code segments or hardware circuits by sending and receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents.

[0185] In the above embodiments, a digital camera with the imaging optical system 13 fixed relative to the camera body 11 is illustrated, but the invention is not limited to this; it can also be applied to a lens-changeable digital camera where the imaging optical system is interchangeable relative to the camera body. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, a lens barrel 12 without a zoom lens is illustrated, but the invention is not limited to this; it can also be configured to include a zoom lens in the imaging optical system 13. Moreover, in addition to the digital camera described above, the invention can also be applied to cameras such as smartphones and camcorders.

[0186] [Note 1]

[0187] A camera device comprising a first processor and a recording medium, wherein,

[0188] The first processor performs the following processing:

[0189] For image data acquired in a first photographic mode where the image format is restricted, a specific processing is performed, including either non-visualization processing or encryption processing of the recording medium; the image data for which the specific processing has been performed is stored in the second storage area of ​​a recording medium having a first storage area conforming to the DCF standard and a second storage area not conforming to the DCF standard; when stored in the second storage area, a management file is created that records information related to the image data.

[0190] [Note 2]

[0191] According to the camera device described in Appendix 1, the management file contains at least one of the presence or absence of the non-visualized image data, information at the time of shooting, or information for restoring the encrypted image data.

[0192] [Note 3]

[0193] An application is provided for executing an information processing device connected to the camera device described in Appendix 1 and having a second monitoring unit and a second processor, wherein...

[0194] The second processor performs any of the following processes on the image data stored in the second storage area:

[0195] Execute the fifth instruction for visualizing the non-visualized image data; or execute the sixth instruction for restoring the encrypted image data.

[0196] [Note 4]

[0197] According to the application described in Appendix 3, wherein,

[0198] The second processor performs the following processing:

[0199] Receive the image data sent from the camera device according to the fifth instruction; and output an image to the second monitoring unit based on the image data for which the visualization processing has been performed.

[0200] [Note 5]

[0201] According to the application described in Appendix 3, wherein,

[0202] The second processor performs the following processing:

[0203] Receive the image data sent from the camera device according to the sixth instruction; and output an image to the second monitoring unit based on the image data for which the restoration processing has been performed.

[0204] [Note 6]

[0205] A camera system comprising: the camera device described in Appendix 1; and an information processing device having a second monitoring unit and a second processor, wherein in the camera system,

[0206] The second processor performs any of the following processes on the image data stored in the second storage area:

[0207] Execute the fifth instruction for visualizing the non-visualized image data; or the sixth instruction for restoring the encrypted image data.

[0208] [Note 7]

[0209] A video recording method using a video recording device having a first processor and a recording medium, the video recording method comprising the following steps:

[0210] The first processor performs specific processing on image data acquired in a first photographic mode where the image format is restricted, including either non-visual processing or encryption processing on the recording medium that generates a first storage area conforming to the DCF standard and a second storage area that does not conform to the DCF standard;

[0211] The image data that has undergone the specific processing is stored in the second storage area; and

[0212] When the data is saved to the second storage area, a management file is created that records information related to the image data.

[0213] [Note 8]

[0214] A camera recording program that uses a camera device having a first processor and a recording medium, the camera recording program causing the first processor to perform the following functions:

[0215] For image data in a first photographic mode where the image format is restricted, specific processing is implemented, including either non-visualization processing or encryption processing of the recording medium that generates a first storage area conforming to the DCF standard and a second storage area that does not conform to the DCF standard;

[0216] The image data that has undergone the specific processing is stored in the second storage area; and

[0217] When the data is saved to the second storage area, a management file is created that records information related to the image data.

Claims

1. An image pickup apparatus having a first monitor and a first processor, in the image pickup apparatus, the first processor outputs user interface information related to photography to the first monitor and restricts live view output to the first monitor in a case where a first photography mode in which an image format is restricted is selected.

2. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first processor performs processing of: locking a photography operation based on a first member in the first photography mode; and releasing the lock according to an operation of a second member.

3. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the first processor outputs information that the photography operation based on the first member is valid as the user interface information in a case where the lock is released.

4. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the first processor outputs information that the photography operation is invalid in a case where the photography operation is performed during the lock of the photography operation.

5. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first processor outputs information related to a number of shots as the user interface information in a case where a photography operation based on a first member is performed.

6. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in the first photography mode, the first processor restricts output of image data after photography to the first monitor.

7. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in a case where the first photography mode ends is selected, the first processor saves a series of image data obtained by photography in a recording medium in a unit of one.

8. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first processor releases invalidation of the lock of the photography operation based on a first member and the photography operation based on a second member in a case where a number of shots in the first photography mode reaches a predetermined number of shots.

9. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first processor saves a series of image data obtained by photography in a recording medium in a unit of one in a case where a number of shots in the first photography mode reaches a predetermined number of shots.

10. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first processor shifts to a second photography mode in which output restriction to the first monitor is released in a case where the first photography mode ends.

11. The image pickup apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first processor restricts a moving image in the image format in the first photography mode.

12. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the first processor outputs the predetermined number of shots as the user interface information.

13. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first processor performs processing of: saving a series of image data obtained by photography in a recording medium in a unit of one to which a restriction is applied to display on the first monitor in the first photography mode; and ​ When the first photographing mode is selected, the display restriction is released.

14. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first processor saves a series of image data obtained by photographing in the first photographing mode in the second storage area of the recording medium in which the first storage area following the DCF standard and the second storage area not following the DCF standard are generated.

15. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the first processor saves a series of image data obtained by photographing in the first photographing mode under a second directory not following the DCF standard in the second storage area.

16. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the first processor saves image data obtained in a second photographing mode in which the image format is not restricted under a first directory of the first storage area.

17. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the first processor creates the second directory in the second storage area each time the first photographing mode is selected.

18. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the first processor generates a management file recording information related to the image data under the second directory.

19. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the first directory and the second directory of the first storage area are distinguishable from each other.

20. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the first directory and the second directory are hierarchized by the same rule.

21. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the first processor displays the image data saved in the second storage area on the first monitor according to a first instruction when the first instruction is obtained.

22. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the first processor outputs image of list data listing thumbnail images of the image data to the first monitor.

23. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the first processor moves the image data saved in the second storage area to the first storage area according to a second instruction when the second instruction from an external device is obtained.

24. A program product including an application program for causing an information processing apparatus connected to the image pickup apparatus according to claim 14 and having a second monitor and a second processor to execute, in the program product, the application program causes the second processor to execute either of: a third instruction for enabling the image data saved in the second storage area to be displayed on the second monitor; or a fourth instruction for moving the image data saved in the second storage area to the first storage area.

25. The program product according to claim 24, wherein the second processor performs the following processing: receives the image data transmitted from the image pickup apparatus according to a first instruction; and According to the image data, an image outputting a list data of thumbnail images of the image data to the second monitor section.

26. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing an application program for causing an information processing apparatus connected to the image capturing apparatus according to claim 14 and having a second monitor section and a second processor to execute, in the computer readable medium, the application program causes the second processor to execute either of: a third instruction for enabling display of the image data stored in the second storage area on the second monitor section; or a fourth instruction for moving the image data stored in the second storage area to the first storage area.

27. An image capturing system provided with the image capturing apparatus according to claim 14 and an information processing apparatus having a second monitor section and a second processor, in the image capturing system, the second processor executes either of: a third instruction for enabling display of the image data stored in the second storage area on the second monitor section; or a fourth instruction for moving the image data stored in the second storage area to the first storage area.

28. An image capturing method using an image capturing apparatus having a first monitor section and a first processor, the image capturing method comprising the steps of: the first processor outputs user interface information related to photography to the first monitor section and restricts live view output to the first monitor section in a case where a first photography mode in which an image format is restricted is selected.

29. The image capturing method according to claim 28, comprising the step of: the first processor stores a series of image data obtained by photography in the second storage area of a recording medium on which the first storage area compliant with the DCF standard and the second storage area non-compliant with the DCF standard are generated in the first photography mode.

30. A program product containing an image capturing program using an image capturing apparatus having a first monitor section and a first processor, the image capturing program causing the first processor to execute the functions of: outputting user interface information related to photography to the first monitor section and restricting live view output to the first monitor section in a case where a first photography mode in which an image format is restricted is selected.

31. The program product according to claim 30, causing the first processor to execute the functions of: storing a series of image data obtained by photography in the second storage area of a recording medium on which the first storage area compliant with the DCF standard and the second storage area non-compliant with the DCF standard are generated in the first photography mode.

32. A non-transitory computer readable medium containing an image capturing program using an image capturing apparatus having a first monitor section and a first processor, the image capturing program causing the first processor to execute the functions of: In a case where the first shooting mode in which the image format is restricted is selected, user interface information related to shooting is output to the first monitor and output of live view to the first monitor is restricted.

33. An image pickup apparatus having a first monitor and a first processor, wherein the image pickup apparatus has a first shooting mode in which a restriction on a digital function is imposed, in a case where the first shooting mode is selected, the first processor imposes at least two of the following restrictions as the restriction on the digital function: a restriction on an image format, a restriction on output of live view on the first monitor, a restriction on saving of a series of image data obtained by shooting in the first shooting mode in a format other than a unit of one, a restriction on the number of shots, and a restriction on a second shooting operation immediately after a first shooting operation.

Images