System, control method, computer program product, and computer readable storage medium

Abstract

The invention relates to a system, a control method, a computer program product and a computer readable storage medium. The system controls a first flash lamp that irradiates a subject imaged by an imaging device with light. The system includes: an information control unit configured to store position information on a position of the second flash lamp and setting information of the second flash lamp in a storage portion when the imaging apparatus is imaging using light emitted from the second flash lamp at a first time; and a transmission unit configured to transmit, to the first flash lamp, information based on the position information and the setting information stored in the storage portion in a case where the first flash lamp irradiates the subject with light at a second time after the first time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to systems, control methods, computer program products, and computer-readable storage media for controlling flashlights. Background Technology

[0002] When there is a gap between shooting dates or when shooting is done by changing positions, the approximate distance between the subject and the flash can be recorded to reproduce the arrangement of the flash (light-emitting device). The user then takes a picture based on the recorded distance during reproduction. At this point, the user can fine-tune the image while reviewing it.

[0003] Furthermore, general users who intend to imitate images taken by professionals often attempt trial and error, such as by repeatedly shooting by estimating the flash setup that has already been taken. However, it is difficult to reproduce the flash setup during shooting and to ensure consistency in the shooting. Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-181019 describes a technique for storing the position of flash units after they have been set up.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-181019 aims to prevent positional deviations by storing the absolute position of the installed flash and notifying the user of the amount of deviation from that absolute position. Therefore, in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-181019, for example, if the flash to be used is changed or the position of the subject is changed, it may be impossible to reproduce the effect caused by the flash firing relative to the subject in the past. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure provides techniques for more faithfully reproducing the effects caused by the illumination of a flash relative to the past of the subject.

[0006] One embodiment of this disclosure is a system for controlling a first flash, which illuminates a subject being photographed by a camera device. The system includes: an information control unit configured to store position information and setting information of a second flash in a storage unit when the camera device is photographing using light emitted from a second flash at a first time; and a transmission unit configured to transmit information based on the position information and setting information stored in the storage unit to the first flash when the first flash illuminates the subject at a second time after the first time.

[0007] The features of this disclosure will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description of the embodiments is given by way of example. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a camera flash system.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of a UWB device.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a sequence diagram used to illustrate distance measurement using a UWB device.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the measurement of the angle of a UWB device.

[0012] Figure 5 This diagram is used to illustrate three-lamp lighting.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating location information.

[0014] Figure 7A This is a flowchart of the location information transmission and processing.

[0015] Figure 7B This is a flowchart of the location information transmission and processing.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating a table of settings that describes information related to flash settings.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating a table of settings that describes the position information of the receiver's flash.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the display items shown on the display unit. Detailed Implementation

[0019] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 1 A schematic structure of a camera flash system according to a first embodiment is described.

[0020] The camera flash system includes a camera 100, a lens unit 200, and a flash unit 300. The camera 100 is an imaging device. The lens unit 200 is detachably attached to the camera 100. The flash unit 300 is a flash unit detachably attached to the camera 100. The flash unit 300 can also function as a transmitter flash that sends a signal from the camera 100 to a receiver flash, or as a receiver flash that emits light according to the signal. Therefore, in the camera flash system, one of the multiple flash units 300 operates as a transmitter flash, while another flash unit 300 operates as a receiver flash. Figure 1 The example illustrates the use of flash 300 as a receiver flash.

[0021] The camera 100 and lens unit 200, as well as the camera 100 and flash unit 300, are connected via a communication line (signal line). For example, the communication line communicates with the camera microcomputer 101, which acts as the host (host in a host-device relationship), for information exchange, such as data exchange or command transmission.

[0022] The structure of camera 100 will be described in the section on (the structure of the camera body). Camera 100 includes a camera microcomputer 101, an image sensor 102, a shutter 103, an autofocus (AF) circuit 107, an A / D converter 109, and a signal processing circuit 111. Camera 100 includes an input unit 112, a display unit 113, terminals 120 and 130, a posture detection circuit 140, a wireless unit 170, and a camera interface circuit 180.

[0023] The camera microcomputer 101 is a microcomputer CPU (control unit) that controls the various units of the camera 100. The camera microcomputer 101 is, for example, a single-chip IC circuit containing a microcomputer. The camera microcomputer 101 includes, for example, a CPU, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and input / output control circuitry (I / O control circuitry). The camera microcomputer 101 includes, for example, a multiplexer, timer circuitry, and electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). The camera microcomputer 101 includes, for example, an analog-to-digital (A / D) converter, a D / A converter, etc. The camera microcomputer 101 then controls the camera flash system via software to determine various conditions. The camera microcomputer 101 also operates as an information control unit that stores various types of information in storage sections (images, RAM, etc.). The camera microcomputer 101 can communicate with the lens unit 200 via terminal 120.

[0024] The imaging element 102 includes an infrared cutoff filter, a low-pass filter, etc. The imaging element 102 is an imaging element such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS). When the lens assembly 202, which will be described later, captures an image of the subject, the imaging element 102 forms on the imaging element 102.

[0025] The shutter 103 can be moved to a position where light reaches the image sensor 102 and a position where light does not reach the image sensor 102.

[0026] AF circuit 107 is a focus detection circuit that includes a distance measurement sensor with multiple distance measurement points. AF circuit 107 outputs focus information, such as the amount of defocus at each distance measurement point. AF circuit 107 can perform image plane phase difference AF.

[0027] The A / D converter 109 converts the amplified analog signal output from the camera element 102 into a digital signal.

[0028] The signal processing circuit 111 performs signal processing on the image data converted into digital signals by the A / D converter 109.

[0029] The input unit 112 includes operating units such as a power switch, a release switch, and a setting button. The camera microcomputer 101 performs various processes in response to the user's operation (input) on the input unit 112.

[0030] When the release switch is operated in the first stage (half-press), "Switch SW1" is turned on, and the camera microcomputer 101 begins shooting preparation operations (focus adjustment, metering, etc.). When the release switch is operated in the second stage (fully pressed), "Switch SW2" is turned on, and the camera microcomputer 101 begins shooting operations (exposure and development processing, etc.).

[0031] In addition, users can also make various settings for the flash 300 attached to the camera 100 by operating the setting buttons of the input unit 112.

[0032] The display unit 113 includes a liquid crystal device or a light-emitting element. The display unit 113 displays various setting modes, other shooting information, etc.

[0033] The attitude detection circuit 140 is a circuit that detects the attitude difference (attitude change) between the camera 100 and a reference attitude. The attitude detection circuit 140 includes an attitude H detection unit 140a, an attitude V detection unit 104b, and an attitude Z detection unit 140c. The attitude H detection unit 140a detects the attitude difference of the camera 100 in the horizontal direction (H direction). The attitude V detection unit 140b detects the attitude difference of the camera 100 in the vertical direction (V direction). The attitude Z detection unit 140c detects the attitude difference of the camera 100 in the forward / backward direction (Z direction).

[0034] For example, an angular velocity sensor or a gyroscope sensor is used in the attitude detection circuit 140. Attitude information regarding the attitude differences in various directions detected by the attitude detection circuit 140 is output to the camera microcomputer 101.

[0035] Wireless unit 170 is a wireless communication module. Wireless unit 170 may be, for example, an ultra-wideband (UWB) module, an infrared communication module, a Bluetooth (trademark) communication module, a wireless LAN communication module, a wireless USB, etc.

[0036] The camera interface circuit 180 is a transmission / reception unit that communicates with the flash interface circuit 3000 via terminal 130. The camera interface circuit 180, for example, transmits adjustment information, which will be described later, to the flash 300. Here, the adjustment information is information about indicators when adjusting the position and settings of the flash 300.

[0037] (Structure of Lens Unit) The structure of lens unit 200 will be described. It includes lens microcomputer 201, lens group 202, lens drive unit 203, and encoder 204.

[0038] The lens microcomputer 201 is a microcomputer LPU (control unit) that controls the various units of the lens unit 200. The lens microcomputer 201 may be, for example, a single-chip IC circuit containing a microcomputer. The lens microcomputer 201 includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, input / output control circuitry (I / O control circuitry), multiplexer, timer circuitry, EEPROM, A / D converter, D / A converter, etc.

[0039] The lens drive unit 203 is a drive system that moves the lens included in the lens group 202. The drive amount of the lens group 202 is calculated by the camera microcomputer 101 based on the output of the AF circuit 107 in the camera 100. The calculated drive amount information is transmitted from the camera microcomputer 101 to the lens microcomputer 201.

[0040] Encoder 204 is an encoder that detects the position of lens assembly 202 and outputs drive information. Lens drive unit 203 moves lens assembly 202 by a certain amount based on the drive information from encoder 204 to adjust focus.

[0041] (Structure of the flash unit) The structure of the flash unit 300 will be described. The flash unit 300 includes a battery 301, a boost circuit block 302, a trigger circuit 303, a light emission control circuit 304, a discharge tube 305, a reflector 306, a zoom optical system 307, an integrating circuit 308, and a flash unit microcomputer 310. Furthermore, the flash unit 300 includes an input unit 312, a display unit 313, a zoom drive circuit 330, a posture detection circuit 360, a wireless unit 370, and a flash unit interface circuit 3000.

[0042] Despite Figure 1 Not shown in the illustration, but the flash unit 300 includes a "body" and a "movable part". The "body" is detachably attached to the camera 100. The "movable part" is kept so as to be able to rotate relative to the "body" in both vertical and horizontal directions.

[0043] The flash interface circuit 3000 communicates with the camera microcomputer 101 via terminal 130.

[0044] Battery 301 is the power source for flash unit 300.

[0045] The boost circuit block 302 includes a boost converter 302a, two resistors (resistors 302b and 302c) for voltage detection, and a main capacitor 302d. The boost circuit block 302 boosts the voltage of the battery 301 to several hundred volts through the boost converter 302a, and accumulates electrical energy for lighting in the main capacitor 302d.

[0046] The trigger circuit 303 applies a pulse voltage to the discharge tube 305 to excite the discharge tube 305.

[0047] The light-emitting control circuit 304 controls the start and stop of the light emission of the discharge tube 305.

[0048] The discharge tube 305 receives and excites a pulse voltage of several kV applied from the trigger circuit 303, and uses the electrical energy charged in the main capacitor 302d to emit light.

[0049] The reflector 306 reflects the light emitted from the discharge tube 305 and guides the light in a predetermined direction.

[0050] The zoom optical system 307 includes an optical panel, etc. The zoom optical system 307 is maintained in a manner that allows for changing its relative position to the discharge tube 305. The zoom optical system 307 can change the light output (guide number) and illumination range of the flash unit 300 by altering the relative position between the discharge tube 305 and the zoom optical system 307.

[0051] The amount of drive for the zoom optical system 307 is calculated by the flash microcomputer 310 based on the focal length information output from the lens microcomputer 201. Alternatively, the flash microcomputer 310 drives the zoom optical system 307 at a position set by the input unit 312.

[0052] The light-emitting unit of the flash unit 300 mainly includes a discharge tube 305, a reflector 306, and a zoom optical system 307. The illumination range of the light-emitting unit is changed by moving the zoom optical system 307, and the illumination direction of the light-emitting unit is changed by rotating the movable part 300b.

[0053] The integrating circuit 308 monitors the flash. The monitoring results of the flash are used to control the flash unit 300.

[0054] The flash microcomputer 310 is a microcomputer FPU that controls the various units of the flash unit 300. The flash microcomputer 310 may be, for example, a single-chip IC circuit containing a microcomputer. The flash microcomputer 310 includes, for example, a CPU, ROM, RAM, input / output control circuitry (I / O control circuitry), multiplexer, timer circuitry, EEPROM, A / D converter, D / A converter, etc.

[0055] The input unit 312 includes operation units such as a power switch, a mode setting switch for setting the operating mode of the flash unit 300, and setting buttons for setting various parameters. The flash microcomputer 310 performs various processes based on the input from the input unit 312. The input unit 312 also includes an operation unit for changing the dimming correction settings of the flash unit 300.

[0056] Display unit 313 includes a liquid crystal device or a light-emitting element. Display unit 313 displays various states of the flashlight 300. Display unit 313 also includes LEDs for displaying warnings.

[0057] The zoom drive circuit 330 includes a zoom detection unit 330a and a zoom drive unit 330b. The zoom detection unit 330a detects information about the relative position between the discharge tube 305 and the zoom optical system 307 using an encoder or the like. The zoom drive unit 330b includes a motor for moving the zoom optical system 307.

[0058] The posture detection circuit 360 is a circuit that detects the posture difference (posture change) between the movable part 300b and a reference posture. Posture H detection unit 360a detects the posture difference of the movable part 300b in the horizontal direction (H direction). Posture V detection unit 360b detects the posture difference of the movable part 300b in the vertical direction (V direction). Posture Z detection unit 360c detects the posture difference of the movable part 300b in the forward / backward direction (Z direction). The output of the posture detection circuit 360 is used to store the light illumination direction of the flash lamp 300 and to detect the state of the stored light illumination direction. For example, an accelerometer or gyroscope sensor is used in the posture detection circuit 360.

[0059] The wireless unit 370 wirelessly transmits and receives data. The wireless unit 370 may include, for example, an ultra-wideband (UWB) module, an infrared communication module, a Bluetooth communication module, a wireless LAN communication module, or a wireless communication module such as a wireless USB.

[0060] In the first embodiment, when the flash 300 is a receiver flash, the flash 300 is physically located away from the camera 100. In this case, the flash 300 is connected via a wireless unit 370 to a transmitter flash clipped to the camera 100 and receives various control commands from the transmitter flash. As a result, the flash 300 operates as a receiver flash.

[0061] (Structure of a UWB device) Figure 2 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating a UWB device 2101 according to a first embodiment. The UWB device 2101 is included... Figure 1The wireless unit 170, wireless unit 370, etc., are included. That is, the camera 100 and flash 300 include a UWB device 2101. Furthermore, the UWB device 2101 can be included in a portable tag to provide UWB functionality. In this embodiment using ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, reference will be made to... Figure 2 Describe the structure of the UWB device 2101.

[0062] UWB device 2101 includes a power supply 2102, a CPU 2103, an antenna control unit 2104, a UWB antenna 2105, and a UWB antenna 2106. UWB device 2101 also includes an antenna control unit 2107, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) antenna 2108, and an accelerometer 2109.

[0063] Power supply 2102 supplies power to UWB device 2101. Power supply 2102 provides the power required for the entire operation of UWB device 2101.

[0064] The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 2103 is responsible for the logic control of the UWB device 2101. The CPU 2103 performs data processing, executes control sequences, and manages communication protocols.

[0065] Antenna control unit 2104 controls the output and directivity of each antenna in UWB antennas 2105 and 2106. In UWB communication, the proper directivity of the antenna is directly related to the communication quality.

[0066] UWB antennas 2105 and 2106 each transmit and receive broadband signals. UWB technology is used for highly accurate location targeting. Therefore, UWB antennas 2105 and 2106 are each dedicated to the transmission and reception of short-pulse signals.

[0067] The antenna control unit 2107 adjusts the position and directivity of the BLE antenna 2108 to optimize communication.

[0068] BLE antenna 2108 is used for pairing between UWB devices 2101 and for short-range communication with surrounding Bluetooth devices. BLE antenna 2108 works in conjunction with antenna control unit 2104 to optimize signal transmission and reception throughout the UWB device 2101.

[0069] Accelerometer 2109 detects the movement of UWB device 2101 to obtain position and vibration information of UWB device 2101. The position and vibration information are used for specifying the position of UWB device 2101, determining operation triggers, etc.

[0070] Note that UWB has both "initiator" and "responder" roles. The "initiator" transmits radio waves, while the "responder" receives them. The roles of UWB can be dynamically determined for each communication.

[0071] Here, in distance measurement and angle detection, the responder receives radio waves transmitted from the initiator, thereby specifying the position of the UWB device 2101. In triangulation, the UWB device with known position information is referred to as the "anchor point".

[0072] (Method for locating UWB devices) Figure 3 This is a sequence diagram schematically illustrating a distance measurement method using the UWB device 2101. (Refer to...) Figure 3 Describe the process until the calculation of the distance between the two UWB devices 2101 is completed.

[0073] Two UWB devices 2101 (initiator 3001 and responder 3002) have been configured as devices with UWB communication modules and clock synchronization mechanisms. The sequence begins when initiator 3001 is activated. Furthermore, the communication modules of initiator 3001 and responder 3002 are capable of generating and receiving UWB pulse signals, and the clock synchronization mechanism operates.

[0074] In step S3101, the initiator 3001 generates a UWB pulse signal and transmits the UWB pulse signal to the responder 3002.

[0075] In step S3102, when a pulse signal is received, the responder 3002 records the arrival time of the pulse signal. The responder 3002 then returns the arrival time information to the initiator 3001.

[0076] In step S3103, the initiator 3001 measures the transmission time T3201 of both the "pulse signal transmitted by itself" and the "response pulse signal from the responder 3002". The transmission time T3201 represents the time from the moment the pulse signal is transmitted from the initiator 3001 to the moment the pulse signal is received by the responder 3002. The transmission time T3201 is half the round-trip time of the pulse signal.

[0077] Here, "the time from when the initiator 3001 transmits the pulse signal until the initiator 3001 receives the pulse signal" is time T3203. Let "the time from when the responder 3002 receives the pulse signal until the responder 3001 responds" be time T3202.

[0078] Then, since half of the difference between time T3203 and time T3202 is the transmission time T3201, the following equation 1 is established.

[0079] T3201=1 / 2 (T3203-T3202) …Equation 1

[0080] After measuring the transmission time T3201, the initiator 3001 uses the speed of light c to calculate the distance d between the two UWB devices 2101. Specifically, as shown in Equation 2, the distance d between the two UWB devices 2101 can be calculated by multiplying the transmission time T3201 by the speed of light c. Here, the speed of light c is approximately 299,792,458 meters per second.

[0081] Distance (d) = T3201 Speed ​​of light (c) … Equation 2

[0082] As described above, the distance between two UWB devices can be calculated.

[0083] Figure 4 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating a method for detecting the angle of arrival of a tag using the phase difference of the received signals by employing two UWB devices used in this embodiment. The process until the angle measurement is completed will be described below.

[0084] Initiator 3001 and responder 3002 are configured as devices with UWB communication modules and clock synchronization mechanisms. The initiator 3001 and responder 3002 shown here are... Figure 1 The UWB module in the wireless unit is the same.

[0085] The responder 3002 has two UWB antennas, and the antennas and communication module communicate with the initiator 3001 and exchange information for specified location information.

[0086] (1) First, the initiator 3001 generates a UWB signal 4104 and transmits the UWB signal 4104 to each of the two UWB antennas (antenna 1 and antenna 2).

[0087] (2) Thereafter, the two antennas of the responder 3002 each record the arrival time of the UWB signal 4104 from the initiator 3001.

[0088] The arrival time of the UWB signal 4104 is used to calculate the phase difference of the received signal. Phase difference Used to specify the direction θ of the label.

[0089] The wavelength λ of UWB is known. Therefore, the phase difference can be derived using the following equation. The direction θ of the derived tag is given. Distance d is the distance between the two antennas at responder 3002. Path difference ΔD is the difference between the path between antenna 1 and initiator 3001 and the path between antenna 2 and initiator 3001. Direction θ is the direction θ of initiator 3001 as observed from responder 3002.

[0090] [Mathematical Expression 1]

[0091]

[0092] In this specification, two UWB devices are described as initiator and responder, respectively. However, even in the case of three or more UWB devices, it is sufficient to designate an initiator and responder for any two devices among the multiple UWB devices, and there is no limit to the number of UWB devices.

[0093] In addition, it is possible to determine which UWB device is the initiator based on instructions from the flash 300 or the camera 100, or through communication between the UWB devices.

[0094] (Instructions for three-lamp lighting) will be provided for reference. Figure 5 Describe three-light lighting. Three-light lighting is generally considered a technique used to achieve appropriate illumination. In three-light lighting, the main subject is illuminated by three lights: a "key light" as the main illumination, a "fill light" to mitigate the shadows created by the key light, and a "backlight" to outline the main subject.

[0095] Figure 5 This illustrates the positional relationship between the camera, the main subject, and the receiver flash. Figure 5 In this setup, the key light is positioned 45° in front of the main subject and at a height of 45°. The fill light is positioned 30° in front of the main subject and at a height of 30° to the opposite side of the key light. The backlight is positioned 60° behind the main subject at a height. This angle is not inherently established or defined, but rather a suitable illumination is achieved by illuminating the main subject from approximately this angle.

[0096] exist Figure 5 middle, Figure 1 The illustrated flash unit 300 is connected to the camera 100 as a transmitter flash unit (not shown). The receiver flash units for each character are equipped with... Figure 1 The flash unit 300 shown is a flash unit with the same structure.

[0097] First Embodiment

[0098] In the following text, the storage and transmission of position information relating to the relative position of the receiver flash relative to the reference position (the position of the camera 100) in the first embodiment will be described.

[0099] The system according to the first embodiment includes a "camera 100 including a UWB device", a "transmitter flash connected to an accessory socket unit of the camera", a "receiver flash including a UWB device", and a "UWB device held by a main subject". The transmitter flash and the receiver flash are each flash unit 300.

[0100] The receiver flash is positioned 100 units away from the camera. The receiver flash is wirelessly controlled by the transmitter flash. The transmitter flash does not emit light and only controls the receiver flash. Therefore, instead of the transmitter flash, a device that does not emit light but can control the receiver flash (such as a flash transmitter) can be used.

[0101] First, the location information of the receiver's flash will be described. For example... Figure 5 As illustrated, after the user completes the configuration of the receiver flash, the user actually takes a picture. Traditionally, various information (camera model name, lens model name, shooting-related settings, etc.) is stored in the image as metadata. Therefore, when taking or storing an image, the camera microcomputer 101 stores the receiver flash position information as metadata in the image. In this case, the receiver flash position information can be sequentially overwritten and stored only during the last (most recent) shot. Furthermore, the receiver flash position information can be stored when performing an operation to "store receiver flash position information." The operation to "store receiver flash position information" is, for example, an operation on the camera 100 or the transmitter flash. In addition to the acquired image, the setting values ​​of the camera 100 or the transmitter flash can be stored in the metadata.

[0102] The receiver flash position information includes not only the distance / angle (distance and angle) between the camera 100 and the receiver flash, but also information about the distance / angle between the camera 100 and the main subject, as well as the optical axis information of the receiver flash. Regarding the optical axis information of the receiver flash, if there is a difference between the "direction from the receiver flash to the UWB device (subject) held by the main subject" and the "direction of the optical axis," information about that difference is also stored.

[0103] In addition, the receiver flash settings information during shooting, along with the receiver flash position information, is stored in the storage section (image, camera 100's storage medium, etc.). The receiver flash settings information includes information about the user, the receiver flash model, series information, light output (guide number), light distribution angle, and flash position (whether it's a normal or vertical position). Note that when the light distribution is circular, information about the flash position is unnecessary. This is because if the light distribution is circular, the concepts of normal and vertical positions cannot be assumed.

[0104] Reference Figure 6 This describes an example of position information when using key light. Position information includes information such as angle θh, angle θvs, and distance d3. Angle θh is the angle (horizontal angle) formed in the horizontal plane by the "optical axis of camera 100 (direction of the optical axis)" and the "straight line from camera 100 to the receiver flash (direction)". Angle θvs is the elevation angle from the position of camera 100 to the receiver flash. Distance d3 is the distance from camera 100 to the receiver flash. Furthermore, if the optical axis of the receiver flash is pointing towards the UWB device held by the main subject, this fact is retained as optical axis information. Additionally, if some correction has already been made to the optical axis of the receiver flash, in addition to the optical axis information, the correction amount relative to the direction of the UWB device is retained. For example, the correction amount is 5° upward relative to the direction of the UWB device, etc.

[0105] exist Figure 6 In this configuration, the UWB device (hereinafter referred to as the "holding device") held by the main subject (configured on the main subject) is located at the center of the optical axis of the camera 100. Therefore, regarding the distance / angle between the camera 100 and the main subject, the angle (horizontal angle) formed in the horizontal plane by the "optical axis of the camera 100" and the "straight line from the camera 100 to the holding device" is 0°. Furthermore, regarding the distance / angle between the camera 100 and the main subject, the elevation angle of the camera 100 relative to the position of the holding device is 0°, and the distance between the camera 100 and the holding device is d.

[0106] The camera microcomputer 101 communicates with the UWB device of the receiver flash and performs distance measurement and angle detection to calculate the distance / angle between the camera 100 and the receiver flash. Furthermore, the camera microcomputer 101 communicates with the holding device to perform distance measurement and angle detection, thereby calculating the distance / angle between the camera 100 and the main subject.

[0107] Furthermore, the flash microcomputer 310 communicates with the holding device to perform distance measurement and angle detection, thereby calculating the direction of the optical axis of the receiver flash. Normally, the optical axis of the receiver flash points towards the UWB device held by the main subject. However, since the direction of the receiver flash's optical axis can be adjusted by the user, this direction needs to be stored. The flash microcomputer 310 transmits information about the calculated direction of the optical axis and the angle between the holding device and the camera 100 to the transmitter flash. When the transmitter flash communicates with the camera 100, the camera microcomputer 101 obtains information about the optical axis of the receiver flash.

[0108] Next, refer to Figure 7A and 7B The flowchart will describe the process for transmitting information based on the location information of a previous device (receiver flash) as flash 300 to the receiver flash. Figure 7A and 7B In the flowchart, the camera microcomputer 101 maintains a setting value table describing information related to flash settings (see...). Figure 8 ), and refer to the setting value table for processing.

[0109] Note that, assuming in Figure 7A At the start of the flowchart, the transmitter flash clipped to camera 100 has established a wireless connection with the receiver flash.

[0110] In step S701, the camera microcomputer 101 selects and reads the position information (position information during past shooting) of the receiver flash (hereinafter referred to as the "past device") stored in the camera 100. Furthermore, the camera microcomputer 101 displays on the display unit 113 or display unit 313 the "distance / angle between the camera 100 and the receiver flash, the distance / angle between the camera 100 and the main subject, and the optical axis information of the receiver flash," which serves as the position information of the past device. At this time, it is possible to display, for example... Figure 6 The diagram shows the layout in three-dimensional space, or it can be displayed as follows: Figure 9 The table of values ​​shown.

[0111] In step S702, the camera microcomputer 101 communicates with the flash microcomputer 310 of the currently connected receiver flash and determines whether the receiver flash is the same as the previous device. If it is determined that the receiver flash is the same as the previous device, the settings for the same device also apply to the receiver flash, and the process proceeds to step S703. On the other hand, if it is determined that the receiver flash is different from the previous device, the process proceeds to step S704. Note that the determinations in steps S702, S704, and S705 are based on information about the model of the previous device and information about the model of the receiver flash.

[0112] In step S703, the camera microcomputer 101 sets the past device setting information and position information stored in the camera 100 as adjustment information. Here, the adjustment information is information about the indicators used when adjusting the position and setting of the receiver flash in the receiver flash. The adjustment information is based on the past device setting information and position information during past shooting (video recording). When the processing in step S703 is completed, the camera microcomputer 101 transmits the adjustment information to the receiver flash in step S723, which will be described later.

[0113] In this case, the settings determined in steps S702, S704, and S705 to be the same as those of the previous device during past shooting can also be applied to the receiver flash. Therefore, when adjustment information is received, the receiver flash applies the adjustment information (setting information and position information) to itself. Specifically, the receiver flash adjusts its own settings to emit light with the same amount and angle of light distribution as the previous device during past shooting. Then, the receiver flash displays guidance on the display unit 313 for adjusting the position and orientation of the receiver flash to a position and orientation corresponding to the position information of the previous device. As a result, the user adjusts the receiver flash to the position and orientation corresponding to the position information according to the guidance. As described above, the receiver flash can control its own emission to obtain the same lighting effect as when the previous device emitted light from the previous position.

[0114] In step S704, the camera microcomputer 101 determines whether the connected receiver flash is in the same series as the previous device. If it is determined that the receiver flash is in the same series as the previous device, it is determined that the same settings as the previous device also apply to the receiver flash, and the process proceeds to step S703. When it is determined that the receiver flash is not in the same series as the previous device, the process proceeds to step S705.

[0115] In step S705, firstly, the camera microcomputer 101 sets the setting information and position information of the previous device stored in the camera 100 as adjustment information. Then, the camera microcomputer 101 determines whether the receiver flash is a higher-end model of the previous device. When it is determined that the receiver flash is not a higher-end model of the previous device, the camera microcomputer 101 displays on the display unit 1000. Figure 10 The illustrated display item 1001 (indicates the display item that needs to be adjusted due to the device being different from the previous device). In this case, the process proceeds to step S706. Note that display unit 1000 is either display unit 113 of the camera 100 or display unit 313 of the transmitter flash. In the following explanation, it will be given that display unit 1000 is display unit 113. If it is determined that the receiver flash is different from the previous device, but is a higher-end model than the previous device, it is determined that the same settings as the previous device also apply to the receiver flash, and the process proceeds to step S703.

[0116] In step S706, the camera microcomputer 101 determines whether the light distribution angle of the receiver flash can be adjusted to be the same as the light distribution angle set for the previous device during shooting (= the light distribution angle stored in the setting information). When it is determined that the light distribution angle of the receiver flash can be adjusted to be the same as the light distribution angle set for the previous device, the process proceeds to step S707. When it is determined that the light distribution angle of the receiver flash cannot be adjusted to be the same as the light distribution angle set for the previous device, the process proceeds to step S708.

[0117] In step S707, the camera microcomputer 101 sets (resets) the stored information about the light distribution angle of the past device to the information about the light distribution angle in the adjustment information.

[0118] In step S708, the camera microcomputer 101 sets the light distribution angle information that is closest to the light distribution angle of the past device in the light distribution angle that can be set in the receiver flash, as the information about the light distribution angle in the adjustment information.

[0119] In step S709, the camera microcomputer 101 displays a warning on the display unit 1000 regarding the receiver flash, indicating that the previous device "could not set the same light distribution." For example, the camera microcomputer 101 displays on the display unit 1000... Figure 10 The example display item is 1004.

[0120] In step S710, the camera microcomputer 101 determines whether the light output of the receiver flash can be adjusted to the light output of the previous device at the time of shooting (= the light output stored in the setting information). If it is determined that the light output of the receiver flash can be adjusted to the light output of the previous device, the process proceeds to step S711. If it is determined that the light output of the receiver flash cannot be adjusted to the light output of the previous device, the process proceeds to step S712.

[0121] In step S711, the camera microcomputer 101 sets (resets) the stored information about the amount of light from past devices to the information about the amount of light in the adjustment information.

[0122] In step S712, the camera microcomputer 101 determines whether the reason why the receiver flash cannot be adjusted to the level of the previous device is due to insufficient receiver flash. If it is determined that the receiver flash cannot be adjusted to the level of the previous device because the maximum receiver flash setting is too small, the process proceeds to step S716. If it is determined that the receiver flash cannot be adjusted to the level of the previous device because the minimum receiver flash setting is too large, the process proceeds to step S713.

[0123] In step S713, the camera microcomputer 101 sets the information regarding the minimum light output of the receiver flash (the minimum value in the settable light output) to the light output information in the adjustment information. Furthermore, the camera microcomputer 101 displays this information on the display unit 1000. Figure 10 Display item 1002 is shown here. Display item 1002 indicates that the receiver flash cannot be set to the same amount of light as before.

[0124] Simultaneously, in step S713, the camera microcomputer 101 calculates the distance between the receiver flash and the camera 100. Furthermore, if the height of the receiver flash mounting location is too high (e.g., greater than 2m), the camera microcomputer 101 issues a warning, such as "Caution due to high position." For example, the camera microcomputer 101 displays on the display unit 1000. Figure 10 The example display item is 1005.

[0125] Furthermore, if the distance between the receiver flash and the camera 100 is insufficient, the camera microcomputer 101 displays a message such as "excessive light output." For example, the camera microcomputer 101 displays on the display unit 1000. Figure 10 The example display item is 1002.

[0126] In step S714, if the light distribution angle of the receiver flash is adjusted, the camera microcomputer 101 determines whether the amount of illumination light reaching the main subject from the past device during a past shooting can match the amount of illumination light reaching the main subject from the receiver flash. If it is determined that the amount of illumination light reaching the main subject from the past device (hereinafter referred to as "past light amount") can match the amount of illumination light reaching the main subject from the receiver flash (hereinafter referred to as "flash amount"), the process proceeds to step S715. If it is determined that the flash amount cannot match the past light amount, the process proceeds to step S718.

[0127] In step S715, the camera microcomputer 101 calculates the light distribution angle of the receiver flash, such that the flash output matches the past output when the receiver flash output is at its minimum. Then, the camera microcomputer 101 sets (resets) the information regarding the calculated light distribution angle to the information regarding the light distribution angle in the adjustment information. Furthermore, the camera microcomputer 101 displays the information on the display unit 1000. Figure 10 Display item 1003 is shown here. Display item 1003 indicates that the light distribution angle has been adjusted.

[0128] In step S716, the camera microcomputer 101 determines whether the receiver flash can be moved closer to the main subject from outside the field of view of the camera 100. If it is determined that "the receiver flash is positioned just outside the field of view of the camera 100, and the receiver flash cannot be moved closer to the main subject than it is now," the process proceeds to step S717. If it is determined that the receiver flash can be moved closer to the main subject from outside the field of view of the camera 100, the process proceeds to step S719.

[0129] In step S717, the camera microcomputer 101 displays a warning such as "insufficient light" on the display unit 1000. For example, the camera microcomputer 101 displays on the display unit 1000... Figure 10 The example display item is 1006.

[0130] In step S718, the camera microcomputer 101 calculates the widest angle of the light distribution angle of the receiver flash. Then, when the light distribution angle of the receiver flash is at its widest angle, the camera microcomputer 101 calculates the distance between the camera 100 and the receiver flash, so that the past light amount matches the flash amount. The camera microcomputer 110 sets (resets) the calculated widest angle information and distance information to the light distribution angle information and distance information (distance information between the camera 100 and the receiver flash) in the adjustment information.

[0131] In step S719, if the receiver flash is brought closer to the main subject from outside the field of view of the camera 100, the camera microcomputer 101 determines whether the flash volume can be adjusted to the past volume. If it is determined that the flash volume can be adjusted to the past volume if the receiver flash is brought closer to the main subject, the process proceeds to step S720. If it is determined that the flash volume cannot be adjusted to the past volume even if the receiver flash is brought closer to the main subject, the process proceeds to step S721.

[0132] In step S720, the camera microcomputer 101 calculates the distance between the camera 100 and the receiver flash, such that the past light amount matches the flash amount. The camera microcomputer 101 sets the information about the calculated distance as the distance information in the adjustment information.

[0133] In step S721, the camera microcomputer 101 displays a warning such as "insufficient light" on the display unit 1000.

[0134] In step S722, when the receiver flash is closest to the main subject outside the field of view of the camera 100, the camera microcomputer 101 calculates the distance between the camera 100 and the receiver flash. The camera microcomputer 101 sets the information about the calculated distance as the distance information in the adjustment information.

[0135] In step S723, the camera microcomputer 101 transmits adjustment information to the receiver flash. As a result, the receiver flash is set according to the received adjustment information. Furthermore, the receiver flash requests the user to adjust its position and orientation based on, for example, distance / angle information included in the received adjustment information. As a result, a lighting effect similar to that achieved when illuminating the subject with previous devices can be achieved using the receiver flash. Note that the camera 100 stores information such as ambient light brightness and weather information from previous device usage, and the adjustment information may also include this information.

[0136] according to Figure 7A and 7B In the flowchart processing, where it is possible to use the same settings as the previous device for the currently used receiver flash, the camera 100 transmits the position and setting information of the previous device as adjustment information to the receiver flash. As a result, the receiver flash itself or the user can refer to the adjustment information to adjust the receiver flash to the same settings and position as the previous device used during the previous shooting.

[0137] On the other hand, if it is impossible for the currently used receiver flash to have the same settings as the past equipment used in past shooting, the camera 100 adjusts (changes) adjustment information including the position information and setting information of the past equipment, and then transmits the adjustment information to the receiver flash. Specifically, information obtained by adjusting at least one of the position information and setting information is transmitted as adjustment information, such that the amount of light reaching the main subject from the past equipment at the past shooting time is consistent with (or close to) the amount of light reaching the main subject from the receiver flash. Here, it is assumed that the amount of light emitted from the past equipment and reaching the subject is consistent with the amount of light emitted from the receiver flash and reaching the subject. The adjustment information includes, for example, information obtained by adjusting the information in the setting information regarding the amount of light emitted and the angle of light distribution to correspond (or be closest to) the information regarding the amount of light emitted and the angle of light distribution of the receiver flash in this case. The adjustment information also includes, for example, information obtained by adjusting the information in the position information regarding the distance between the past equipment and the camera 100 to correspond (or be closest to) the information regarding the distance between the receiver flash and the camera 100 in this case.

[0138] As a result, the receiver flash can be adjusted using the receiver flash itself or user-referenced adjustment information to achieve the same effect as when the main subject was illuminated by the previous device at a previous time. In this case, the camera microcomputer 101 can notify that at least one of the position information and setting information (adjustment information) has been adjusted. When the difference between the amount of light emitted before and after the adjustment information exceeds a predetermined amount, the camera microcomputer 101 can issue a warning. Furthermore, when the height of the receiver flash position corresponding to the adjustment information exceeds a predetermined height (e.g., 2m), the camera microcomputer 101 can give a notice (warning), such as "Caution due to high position".

[0139] Figure 8 This is a setting value table describing information related to the settings of the flash unit in this embodiment. In the setting value table, a list of key specifications such as zoom positions 8101 and 8103 for each type name and guide numbers 8102 and 8104 are described as metadata. The setting value table is recorded in a ROM, which is the recording medium of the camera 100 or the flash unit 300.

[0140] Figure 9An example of a setting value table describing the position information of the receiver flash according to this embodiment is shown. For each flash, information related to the arrangement based on the position and orientation of the camera 100 (such as elevation angle, horizontal angle, and distance information) is described along with the character via metadata. The setting value table is recorded in a ROM, which is the recording medium of the camera 100 or the flash 300. The information in the setting value table is updated each time an arrangement is performed.

[0141] According to the first embodiment, the consistency of the arrangement and setting of the receiver flash for each shot is improved. Furthermore, by using information stored in images taken by professionals, ordinary users can easily reproduce the arrangement and setting of the receiver flash, "without having to repeatedly try and fail by estimating the position of the light source as is done in conventional cases."

[0142] Second Embodiment

[0143] In the second embodiment, the case where the camera 100 does not include a UWB device and the transmitter flash and receiver flash include UWB devices will be described. The structure of the flash 300 is the same as that of the first embodiment, except that a UWB device is not present in the structure of the camera 100. Detailed descriptions of the various structures of the camera flash system according to the second embodiment will be omitted.

[0144] In the first embodiment, the camera 100 performs the processing of storing the position information of the receiver flash and the processing of transmitting the position information to the receiver flash. In the second embodiment, the transmitter flash performs these processes. The processing flow is largely the same as that in the first embodiment. The only difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that, when the position information is stored in the image, the transmitter flash transmits the position information of the main subject and the position information of the receiver flash to the camera 100. Even if the camera 100 does not have a UWB device, a camera flash system having a "transmitter flash, receiver flash, and holding device" can store the position information of the receiver flash and transmit the position information to the receiver flash for repositioning.

[0145] Therefore, in the second embodiment... Figure 9 The position information shown is not based on the position and orientation of the camera 100, but is instead based on the position and orientation of the transmitter flash.

[0146] Instead of camera 100, another device including a wireless module can display a "guide to the flash mounting position superimposed on the image acquired by camera 100 in real time". In this case, when location information, flash shape information, etc., are transmitted from camera 100 or a transmitter flash / flash transmitter to the other device, the other device can generate and display the aforementioned guide.

[0147] Furthermore, in the above description, "when A is greater than or equal to B, the process proceeds to step S1, and when A is less than (lower than) B, the process proceeds to step S2" can be understood as "when A is greater than (higher than) B, the process proceeds to step S1, and when A is equal to or less than B, the process proceeds to step S2." Conversely, "when A is greater than (higher than) B, the process proceeds to step S1, and when A is less than or equal to B, the process proceeds to step S2" can be understood as "when A is greater than or equal to B, the process proceeds to step S1, and when A is less than (lower than) B, the process proceeds to step S2." Therefore, unless there is a contradiction, "greater than or equal to A" can be understood as "greater than A (higher; longer; more)," and "less than or equal to A" can be understood as "smaller than A (lower; shorter; less)," and "greater than A (higher; longer; more)," can be understood as "greater than or equal to A," and "smaller than A (lower; shorter; less)," can be understood as "less than or equal to A."

[0148] Note that the various types of control described above can be performed by a single piece of hardware (e.g., a processor or circuitry) or by processing in other ways. Processing can be distributed among multiple pieces of hardware (e.g., multiple processors, multiple circuits, or a combination of one or more processors and one or more circuits) to perform control over the entire device.

[0149] Furthermore, the processors mentioned above are processors in a broad sense, encompassing both general-purpose and special-purpose processors. Examples of general-purpose processors include central processing units (CPUs), microprocessor units (MPUs), and digital signal processors (DSPs). Examples of special-purpose processors include graphics processing units (GPUs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and programmable logic devices (PLDs). Examples of PLDs include field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs).

[0150] The above embodiments (including variations) are merely examples. Any structures obtained by appropriately modifying or changing some structures of the embodiments within the scope of the subject matter of this disclosure are also included in this disclosure. This disclosure also includes other structures obtained by appropriately combining various features of the embodiments.

[0151] According to this disclosure, a technique can be provided for more faithfully reproducing the effect of a flash on a subject in the past.

[0152] Other embodiments

[0153] Embodiments of the present invention can also be implemented by providing software (including computer program products of computer programs) that performs the functions of the above embodiments to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and the computer (central processing unit (CPU) or microprocessor unit (MPU) of the system or device) reads and executes the computer program.

[0154] While this disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. The scope of the appended claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. A system for controlling a first flash, the first flash illuminating a subject being photographed by a camera device, the system comprising: The information control unit is configured to store position information about the position of the second flash and setting information of the second flash in a storage unit when the camera device is taking pictures using light emitted from the second flash at the first moment. as well as The transmission unit is configured to transmit information based on the position information and the setting information stored in the storage unit to the first flash lamp when the subject is illuminated by the first flash lamp at a second time after the first time.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, In a first case where it is possible for the first flash to have the same settings as the second flash at the first time, the transmission unit transmits first information, including the location information and the setting information stored in the storage unit, to the first flash.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein, In a second case where it is determined that the same settings as the second flash at the first time are impossible for the first flash, the transmission unit will transmit the second information obtained by adjusting the first information to the first flash.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein, The second information is obtained by adjusting the first information to correspond to the position and settings of the first flash in the third case, and The third case is when the amount of light emitted from the first flash and reaching the subject is the same as the amount of light emitted from the second flash and reaching the subject at the first time.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein, The setting information includes information on luminous intensity and light distribution angle, and The second information includes information obtained by adjusting the light emission amount and light distribution angle information in the setting information to the light emission amount and light distribution angle information of the first flash lamp in the third case.

6. The system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The location information includes information about the distance between the second flash and the camera device, and The second information includes information obtained by adjusting the distance information between the second flash and the camera device in the location information to the distance information between the first flash and the camera device in the third case.

7. The system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, further comprising: A notification unit is configured to notify that the first information has been adjusted in the second case.

8. The system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, The setting information includes information on the amount of light emitted, and The system further includes a warning unit configured to issue a warning when the difference between the information on the amount of light emitted exceeds a predetermined amount between the first information and the second information.

9. The system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, further comprising: The warning unit is configured to issue a warning if the height of the position of the first flashlight corresponding to the second information in the second case is greater than a predetermined height.

10. The system according to any one of claims 2 to 5, further comprising: The determining unit is configured to determine, based on the model information of the first flash and the model information of the second flash, whether it is possible in the first flash to have the same settings as the second flash at the first time.

11. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The location information includes: 1) the distance and angle between the camera device and the second flash; 2) the distance and angle between the camera device and the subject; and 3) the information of the optical axis of the second flash.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein, The information about the optical axis of the second flash also includes information about the difference between the direction from the second flash to the subject and the direction of the optical axis of the second flash.

13. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The settings information includes at least one of the following: character, light distribution angle, light emission amount, and model name.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein, The setting information includes posture information, which indicates whether the second flash is in a normal position or a vertical position when the light distribution of the second flash is not a circular light distribution.

15. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: The camera device, The camera device includes the information control unit and the transmission unit.

16. A system for controlling a first flash, the first flash illuminating a subject being photographed by a camera device, the system comprising: An information control unit is configured to store position information about the relative position of the second flash relative to a reference position in a storage unit when the camera device is taking pictures using light emitted from the second flash at a first moment. as well as A transmission unit is configured to transmit information based on the position information stored in the storage unit to the first flash when the subject is illuminated by the first flash at a second time after the first time.

17. A control method for a system controlling a first flash, the first flash illuminating a subject being photographed by a camera device, the control method comprising: The step of storing position information about the position of the second flash and setting information about the second flash in the storage unit when the camera device is taking pictures using light emitted from the second flash at the first moment; as well as The step of transmitting information based on the position information and setting information stored in the storage unit to the first flash when the subject is illuminated by the first flash at a second time after the first time.

18. A control method for a system controlling a first flash, the first flash illuminating a subject being photographed by a camera device, the control method comprising: The step of storing position information about the relative position of the second flash relative to a reference position in the storage unit when the camera device is taking pictures using light emitted from the second flash at the first moment; as well as The step of transmitting information based on the position information stored in the storage unit to the first flash when the first flash illuminates the subject at a second time after the first time.

19. A computer program product comprising a program that causes a computer to perform the steps of the control method according to claim 17 or 18.

20. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to perform the steps of the control method according to claim 17 or 18.

Images