Electronic apparatus, method for controlling the same, program, and recording medium

Abstract

To allow a user to easily determine the position of an AF in a range in which the position of the AF can be specified, even if the range is restricted.SOLUTION: An electronic apparatus includes: image acquisition means for acquiring a live-view image taken of a real space by an imaging device; determination means for determining a first range as a range of the live-view image in which the position of an auto-focus can be specified; and control means for controlling display means to display a part of the live-view image on the basis of the first range.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device, a control method thereof, a program, and a recording medium.

Background Art

[0002] In a digital camera, a function of displaying an AF frame, which is a display item indicating a focus position on a live view image, when focusing by autofocus (AF) is known (Patent Document 1). The user can recognize the subject focused on in the live view image by the display of the AF frame. And if the subject desired by the user is not in focus, the user can change the position of the AF frame by operating and refocus.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Due to the camera or the lens, there may be a limitation in the range where the position of AF can be specified (hereinafter referred to as the "AF available range"). In this case, it is difficult for the photographer to visually recognize the AF available range and to specify the position of AF (focus position) within the AF available range.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to make it easy for a user to determine the position of AF within the range even when there is a limitation in the range where the position of AF can be specified.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is image acquisition means for acquiring a live view image obtained by the imaging device capturing the real space, Determining means for determining a first range that is a range in which the position of autofocus in the live view image can be specified; Control means for controlling the display means to display a part of the live view image based on the first range; An electronic device characterized by comprising:

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is An image acquisition step of acquiring a live view image obtained by an imaging device capturing a real space; A determination step of determining a first range that is a range in which the position of autofocus in the live view image can be specified; A control step of controlling the display means to display a part of the live view image based on the first range; A control method for an electronic device, characterized by comprising:

Advantages of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, even when there is a limitation on the range in which the position of AF can be specified, the user can easily determine the position of AF within the range.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] <Embodiment 1> In Embodiment 1, in a camera 100 (imaging device) which is an electronic device capable of mounting a single-lens, an example of an enlarged display of an AF available range (AF ranging available area), which is a range in which the position of AF can be specified, will be described.

[0011] FIGS. 1A and 1B are external views showing an example of the appearance of the camera 100. FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the camera 100 seen from the front side. FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the camera 100 seen from the back side.

[0012] On the upper surface of the camera 100, there are a shutter button 101, a power switch 102, a mode change switch 103, a main electronic dial 104, a sub electronic dial 105, a movie button 106, and an external finder display unit 107. The shutter button 101 is an operation member for giving an instruction for shooting preparation or a shooting instruction. The power switch 102 is an operation member for switching on and off the power of the camera 100. The mode change switch 103 is an operation member for switching various modes. The main electronic dial 104 is a rotary operation member for changing set values such as shutter speed and aperture. The sub electronic dial 105 is a rotary operation member for moving a selection frame (cursor) or advancing an image. The movie button 106 is an operation member for giving an instruction to start or stop movie shooting (recording). The external finder display unit 107 displays various set values such as shutter speed and aperture.

[0013] The camera 100 has, on its back, a display unit 108, a touch panel 109, direction keys 110, a SET button 111, an AE lock button 112, a zoom button 113, a playback button 114, a menu button 115, an eyepiece part 116, an eyepiece detection unit 118, and a touch bar 119. The display unit 108 displays images and various types of information. The touch panel 109 is an operation member that detects touch operations on the display surface (touch operation surface) of the display unit 108. The direction keys 110 are an operation unit composed of keys (four-way keys) that can be pressed respectively in the up, down, left, and right directions. Processing can be performed according to the position where the direction keys 110 are pressed. The SET button 111 is an operation member that is mainly pressed when determining a selected item. The AE lock button 112 is an operation member that is pressed when fixing the exposure state in the shooting standby state. The zoom button 113 is an operation member for switching on and off the zoom mode in the live view display (LV display) in the shooting mode. When the zoom mode is on, the live view image (LV image) can be enlarged or reduced by operating the main electronic dial 104. Also, the zoom button 113 is used when enlarging the playback image or increasing the magnification rate in the playback mode. The playback button 114 is an operation member for switching between the shooting mode and the playback mode. By pressing the playback button 114 in the shooting mode, the user can shift to the playback mode and display the latest image among the images recorded on a recording medium 227 described later on the display unit 108.

[0014] The menu button 115 is an operation member that is pressed to display a menu screen on which various settings can be made on the display unit 108. The user can intuitively perform various settings using the menu screen displayed on the display unit 108 and the direction keys 110 and the SET button 111. The eyepiece part 116 is a part where the user looks into the eyepiece finder (a viewfinder of the peering type) 117. The user can visually recognize the video displayed on an EVF 217 (Electronic View Finder) described later inside the camera 100 through the eyepiece part 116. The eyepiece detection unit 118 is a sensor that detects whether or not the user is looking into the eyepiece part 116 (eyepiece finder 117).

[0015] The touch bar 119 is a linear touch operation member (line touch sensor) capable of receiving touch operations. The touch bar 119 is arranged at a position where it can be touched (touched) with the right thumb in a state where the grip portion 120 is held with the right hand (a state where it is held with the little finger, ring finger, and middle finger of the right hand) so that the shutter button 101 can be pressed with the index finger of the right hand. That is, the touch bar 119 is operable in a state (shooting posture) where the user looks into the viewfinder 117 and peers into the eyepiece portion 116 and can press the shutter button 101 at any time. The touch bar 119 can receive a tap operation (an operation of touching and releasing without moving the touch position within a predetermined period) on the touch bar 119, a slide operation to the left and right (an operation of moving the touch position while keeping the touch after touching), and the like. The touch bar 119 is an operation member different from the touch panel 109 and does not have a display function. The touch bar 119 functions as, for example, a multifunction bar (M-Fn bar) to which various functions can be assigned.

[0016] In addition, the camera 100 includes a grip portion 120, a thumb rest portion 121, a terminal cover 122, a lid 123, a communication terminal 124, and the like. The grip portion 120 is a holding portion formed in a shape that is easy to hold with the right hand when the user holds the camera 100. With the grip portion 120 held by the little finger, ring finger, and middle finger of the right hand, the shutter button 101 and the main electronic dial 104 are arranged at positions operable by the index finger of the right hand. Also, in the same state, the sub electronic dial 105 and the touch bar 119 are arranged at positions operable by the thumb of the right hand. The thumb rest portion 121 (thumb standby position) is a grip portion provided on the back side of the camera 100 at a location where it is easy to place the thumb of the right hand that is holding the grip portion 120 without operating any operating members. The thumb rest portion 121 is composed of a rubber member or the like for enhancing the holding force (grip feeling). The terminal cover 122 protects connectors such as connection cables for connecting the camera 100 to external devices (external apparatuses). The lid 123 protects the recording medium 227 and the slot by closing the slot for storing the recording medium 227 described later. The communication terminal 124 is a terminal for communicating with the lens unit (such as the lens unit 200 and the binocular lens unit 600 described later) that is detachable from the camera 100.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the camera 100. In FIG. 2, the same components as those in FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B are denoted by the same reference numerals as in FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B, and the description of those components is omitted as appropriate. In FIG. 2, the lens unit 200 is attached to the camera 100.

[0018] First, the lens unit 200 will be described. The lens unit 200 is a type of interchangeable lens unit that is detachable from the camera 100. The lens unit 200 is a single-lens unit and is an example of a normal lens unit. The lens unit 200 includes a diaphragm 201, a lens 202, a diaphragm drive circuit 203, an AF drive circuit 204, a lens system control circuit 205, a communication terminal 206, and the like.

[0019] The aperture 201 is configured such that its aperture diameter is adjustable. The lens 202 is composed of a plurality of lenses. The aperture drive circuit 203 adjusts the amount of light by controlling the aperture diameter of the aperture 201. The AF drive circuit 204 drives the lens 202 to focus. The lens system control circuit 205 controls the aperture drive circuit 203, the AF drive circuit 204, etc. based on instructions from the system control unit 50 described later. The lens system control circuit 205 controls the aperture 201 via the aperture drive circuit 203 and focuses by changing the position of the lens 202 via the AF drive circuit 204. The lens system control circuit 205 is capable of communicating with the camera 100. Specifically, communication is performed via the communication terminal 206 of the lens unit 200 and the communication terminal 124 of the camera 100. The communication terminal 206 is a terminal for the lens unit 200 to communicate with the camera 100 side.

[0020] Next, the camera 100 will be described. The camera 100 includes a shutter 210, an imaging unit 211, an A / D converter 212, a memory control unit 213, an image processing unit 214, a memory 215, a D / A converter 216, an EVF 217, a display unit 108, and a system control unit 50.

[0021] The shutter 210 is a focal plane shutter that can freely control the exposure time of the imaging unit 211 based on an instruction from the system control unit 50. The imaging unit 211 is an image sensor (imaging device) composed of elements (such as CCD or CMOS elements) that convert an optical image into an electrical signal. The imaging unit 211 is an image acquisition unit that acquires an imaging image of the real space. The imaging unit 211 may have an imaging plane phase difference sensor that outputs defocus amount information to the system control unit 50. The A / D converter 212 converts the analog signal output from the imaging unit 211 into a digital signal. The image processing unit 214 performs predetermined processing (such as resizing processing like pixel interpolation and reduction, color conversion processing, etc.) on the data from the A / D converter 212 or the data from the memory control unit 213. Also, the image processing unit 214 performs predetermined arithmetic processing using the captured image data. Based on the obtained arithmetic result, the system control unit 50 performs exposure control and distance measurement control. By this processing, AF processing, AE (automatic exposure) processing, EF (flash pre-emission) processing, etc. of the TTL (through-the-lens) method are performed. Further, the image processing unit 214 performs predetermined arithmetic processing using the captured image data. Based on the obtained arithmetic result, the system control unit 50 performs TTL method AWB (auto white balance) processing.

[0022] The image data from the A / D converter 212 is written into the memory 215 via the image processing unit 214 and the memory control unit 213. Alternatively, the image data from the A / D converter 212 is written into the memory 215 via the memory control unit 213 without passing through the image processing unit 214. The memory 215 stores the image data obtained by the imaging unit 211 and converted into digital data by the A / D converter 212. Also, the memory 215 stores the image data for display on the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. The memory 215 has a storage capacity sufficient to store a predetermined number of still images, a moving image for a predetermined time, and audio. Also, the memory 215 doubles as a memory for image display (video memory).

[0023] The D / A converter 216 converts the image data for display stored in the memory 215 into an analog signal and supplies it to the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. Therefore, the image data for display written in the memory 215 is displayed on the display unit 108 or the EVF 217 via the D / A converter 216. The display unit 108 or the EVF 217 performs display according to the analog signal from the D / A converter 216. The display unit 108 and the EVF 217 are, for example, displays such as an LCD or an organic EL. The digital signal A / D-converted by the A / D converter 212 and stored in the memory 215 is converted into an analog signal by the D / A converter 216. The analog signal is sequentially transferred to the display unit 108 or the EVF 217 and displayed as an image. By this, the live view display is performed.

[0024] The system control unit 50 is a control unit composed of at least one processor and / or at least one circuit. That is, the system control unit 50 may be a processor, may be a circuit, or may be a combination of a processor and a circuit. The system control unit 50 controls the entire camera 100. The system control unit 50 realizes each process of the flowchart described later by executing the program recorded in the nonvolatile memory 219. Further, the system control unit 50 also performs display control by controlling the memory 215, the D / A converter 216, the display unit 108, the EVF 217, etc.

[0025] Further, the camera 100 includes a system memory 218, a nonvolatile memory 219, a system timer 220, a communication unit 221, an attitude detection unit 222, and an eyepiece detection unit 118.

[0026] For example, RAM is used for the system memory 218. In the system memory 218, constants, variables for the operation of the system control unit 50, programs read from the nonvolatile memory 219, etc. are expanded.

[0027] The non-volatile memory 219 is an electrically erasable and recordable memory. For example, an EEPROM is used for the non-volatile memory 219. Constants for the operation of the system control unit 50, programs, etc. are recorded in the non-volatile memory 219. The program here is a program for executing the flowchart described later. The system timer 220 is a timing unit that measures the time used for various controls and the time of the built-in clock.

[0028] The communication unit 221 transmits and receives video signals and audio signals to and from an external device connected by a wireless or wired cable. The communication unit 221 can also be connected to a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or the Internet. Further, the communication unit 221 can communicate with an external device using Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Bluetooth Low Energy. The communication unit 221 can transmit an image captured by the imaging unit 211 (including a live image) or an image recorded on the recording medium 227, and can receive an image and various other information from an external device.

[0029] The attitude detection unit 222 detects the attitude of the camera 100 with respect to the direction of gravity. Based on the attitude detected by the attitude detection unit 222, it is possible to determine whether the image captured by the imaging unit 211 is an image captured with the camera 100 held horizontally or vertically. The system control unit 50 can add orientation information corresponding to the attitude detected by the attitude detection unit 222 to the image file of the image captured by the imaging unit 211, or rotate the image according to the detected attitude. For example, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, etc. can be used for the attitude detection unit 222. It is also possible to detect the movement of the camera 100 (such as panning, tilting, lifting, and whether it is stationary or not) using the attitude detection unit 222.

[0030] The eyepiece detection unit 118 can detect the approach of any object to the eyepiece unit 116 (eyepiece finder 117). For the eyepiece detection unit 118, for example, an infrared proximity sensor can be used. When an object approaches, the infrared rays projected from the light projecting unit of the eyepiece detection unit 118 are reflected by the object and received by the light receiving unit of the infrared proximity sensor. The distance from the eyepiece unit 116 to the object can be determined based on the amount of the received infrared rays. In this way, the eyepiece detection unit 118 performs eyepiece detection to detect the proximity distance of the object to the eyepiece unit 116. The eyepiece detection unit 118 is an eyepiece detection sensor that detects the approach (eyepiece contact) and separation (eyepiece release) of the eye (object) to the eyepiece unit 116. When an object approaching within a predetermined distance to the eyepiece unit 116 is detected from the non-eyepiece state (non-approaching state), it is detected that the eyepiece is in contact. On the other hand, when an object whose approach has been detected moves away by a predetermined distance or more from the eyepiece state (approaching state), it is detected that the eyepiece is released. The threshold value for detecting eyepiece contact and the threshold value for detecting eyepiece release may be different, for example, by providing hysteresis. Also, after detecting eyepiece contact, it is assumed to be in the eyepiece state until eyepiece release is detected. After detecting eyepiece release, it is assumed to be in the non-eyepiece state until eyepiece contact is detected. The system control unit 50 switches the display (display state) / non-display (non-display state) of the display unit 108 and the EVF 217 according to the state detected by the eyepiece detection unit 118. Specifically, at least in the shooting standby state and when the switching setting of the display destination is automatic switching, when not in in the eye, the display destination is set to the display unit 108 and the display is turned on, and the EVF 217 is turned off. Also, when in the eye, the display destination is set to the EVF 217 and the display is turned on, and the display unit 108 is turned off. Note that the eyepiece detection unit 118 is not limited to an infrared proximity sensor, and other sensors may be used as long as they can detect a state that can be regarded as eyepiece contact.

[0031] Also, the camera 100 includes an external finder display unit 107, an external finder display drive circuit 223, a power control unit 224, a power supply unit 225, a recording medium I / F 226, an operation unit 228, and the like.

[0032] The external finder display unit 107 is driven by an external finder display drive circuit 223 and displays various setting values of the camera 100 such as the shutter speed and aperture.

[0033] The power control unit 224 is composed of a battery detection circuit, a DC-DC converter, a switch circuit for switching the energized block, etc., and detects the presence or absence of battery installation, the type of battery, the remaining battery level, etc. Further, the power control unit 224 controls the DC-DC converter based on the detection result and the instruction of the system control unit 50, and supplies the necessary voltage to each unit including the recording medium 227 for the necessary period.

[0034] The power supply unit 225 is a primary battery such as an alkaline battery and a lithium battery, a secondary battery such as a NiCd battery, a NiMH battery and a Li battery, an AC adapter, etc. The recording medium I / F 226 is an interface with a recording medium 227 such as a memory card and a hard disk. The recording medium 227 is a memory card or the like for recording the captured image, and is composed of a semiconductor memory, a magnetic disk, etc. The recording medium 227 may be detachable from the camera 100 or may be built into the camera 100.

[0035] The operation unit 228 is an input unit that receives an operation from the user (user operation) and is used to input various instructions to the system control unit 50. The operation unit 228 includes a shutter button 101, a power switch 102, a mode switch 103, a touch panel 109, other operation units 229, etc. The other operation units 229 include a main electronic dial 104, a sub electronic dial 105, a video button 106, a direction key 110, a SET button 111, an AE lock button 112, a zoom button 113, a playback button 114, a menu button 115, a touch bar 119, etc.

[0036] The shutter button 101 has a first shutter switch 230 and a second shutter switch 231. When the first shutter switch 230 is turned on during the operation of the shutter button 101, that is, when it is half-pressed (shooting preparation instruction), it outputs a first shutter switch signal SW1. The system control unit 50 starts shooting preparation processes such as AF processing, AE processing, AWB processing, and EF processing in response to the first shutter switch signal SW1. When the second shutter switch 231 is turned on when the operation of the shutter button 101 is completed, that is, when it is fully pressed (shooting instruction), it outputs a second shutter switch signal SW2. The system control unit 50 starts a series of shooting processes (processes from reading the signal from the imaging unit 211 to generating an image file including the captured image and writing it to the recording medium 227) in response to the second shutter switch signal SW2.

[0037] The mode switch 103 switches the operation mode of the system control unit 50 to any one of a still image shooting mode, a video shooting mode, a playback mode, etc. The modes included in the still image shooting mode are an auto shooting mode, an auto scene discrimination mode, a manual mode, an aperture priority mode (Av mode), a shutter speed priority mode (Tv mode), a program AE mode (P mode). Also, the modes included in the still image shooting mode are various scene modes and custom modes that are shooting settings according to the shooting scene. The user can directly switch to any one of the above-described shooting modes by the mode switch 103. Alternatively, the user can selectively switch to any one of the plurality of displayed modes using the operation unit 228 after once switching to the shooting mode list screen by the mode switch 103. Similarly, the video shooting mode may also include a plurality of modes. The user can directly switch to any one of the above-described shooting modes by the mode switch 103. Alternatively, the user can selectively switch to any one of the plurality of displayed modes using the operation unit 228 after once switching to the shooting mode list screen by the mode switch 103. Similarly, the video shooting mode may also include a plurality of modes.

[0038] The touch panel 109 is a touch sensor that detects various touch operations on the display surface of the display unit 108 (the operation surface of the touch panel 109). The touch panel 109 and the display unit 108 can be integrally configured. For example, the touch panel 109 is attached to the upper layer of the display surface of the display unit 108 so that the light transmittance does not interfere with the display of the display unit 108. Then, by associating the input coordinates on the touch panel 109 with the display coordinates on the display surface of the display unit 108, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) can be configured as if the user can directly operate the screen displayed on the display unit 108. The touch panel 109 can use any one of various methods such as a resistive film method, a capacitance method, a surface acoustic wave method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, an image recognition method, and an optical sensor method. Depending on the method, there are methods that detect a touch when there is contact with the touch panel 109, and methods that detect a touch when a finger or pen approaches the touch panel 109, but any method may be used.

[0039] The system control unit 50 can detect the following operations or states with respect to the touch panel 109. · A finger or pen that was not touching the touch panel 109 newly touches the touch panel 109, that is, the start of a touch (hereinafter referred to as Touch-Down). · A state in which the touch panel 109 is being touched with a finger or pen (hereinafter referred to as Touch-On). · The finger or pen that is touching the touch panel 109 is moving while touching it (hereinafter referred to as Touch-Move). · A finger or pen that was touching the touch panel 109 has left (been released) from the touch panel 109, that is, the end of a touch (hereinafter referred to as Touch-Up). · A state in which nothing is touching the touch panel 109 (hereinafter referred to as Touch-Off).

[0040] When a touch-down is detected, a touch-on is detected simultaneously. After a touch-down, unless a touch-up is detected, a touch-on is usually detected continuously. Even when a touch-move is detected, a touch-on is detected continuously. Even if a touch-on is detected, if the touch position does not move, a touch-move is not detected. After it is detected that all fingers and pens that were touching have touched up, it becomes a touch-off.

[0041] These operations / states and the position coordinates where fingers or pens are touching on the touch panel 109 are notified to the system control unit 50 through the internal bus. The system control unit 50 determines what kind of operation (touch operation) has been performed on the touch panel 109 based on the notified information. Regarding a touch-move, regarding the moving direction of the finger or pen moving on the touch panel 109, it can also be determined for each vertical component and horizontal component on the touch panel 109 based on the change in the position coordinates. When it is detected that a touch-move has been made by a predetermined distance or more, it is determined that a slide operation has been performed. An operation of quickly moving a finger a certain distance while touching the touch panel 109 and then leaving it as it is is called a "flick". In other words, a flick is an operation of quickly tracing as if flicking with a finger on the touch panel 109. When it is detected that a touch-move has been made by a predetermined distance or more at a predetermined speed or more and a touch-up is detected as it is, it is determined that a flick has been performed (it can be determined that there is a flick following a slide operation). Furthermore, a touch operation of touching multiple locations (for example, two points) together (multi-touching) and bringing their touch positions closer is called "pinch-in", and a touch operation of moving their touch positions farther apart is called "pinch-out". The general term for pinch-out and pinch-in is a pinch operation (or simply a pinch).

[0042] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an AF possible range in a live view image. Due to the optical design of the camera 100 and the lens unit 200, the range in which the accuracy of autofocus (AF) is equal to or higher than a predetermined accuracy may be limited. For this reason, the range (area) that can be specified as the position for performing AF may be limited to a specific area, such as the area 302 in the live view image 301. This specific area is called the "AF possible range". The area 302 that is the AF possible range is determined based on at least any one of the camera information (information regarding the camera 100) obtained from the camera 100 and the lens information (information regarding the lens unit 200) obtained from the lens unit 200. Note that in FIG. 3, the AF possible range is represented as a rectangular area, but it may be an area having other shapes (trapezoid, ellipse, or polygon).

[0043] Referring to the flowchart of FIG. 4, the shooting mode process executed by the camera 100 according to Embodiment 1 will be described. Each process in this flowchart is realized by the system control unit 50 expanding and executing a program stored in the nonvolatile memory 219 in the system memory 218. When the power switch 102 is operated and the power is switched on, the system control unit 50 initializes flags, control variables, etc., and then starts the shooting mode process.

[0044] In step S401, the system control unit 50 acquires a live view image from the imaging unit 211. For example, the system control unit 50 controls the imaging unit 211 to image the real space and acquires a live view image.

[0045] In step S402, the system control unit 50 determines whether the camera 100 and the lens unit 200 are AF capable. If it is determined that the camera 100 and the lens unit 200 are AF capable, the process proceeds to step S403. If it is determined that at least any one of the camera 100 and the lens unit 200 is not AF capable, the process proceeds to step S405.

[0046] In step S403, the system control unit 50 determines whether an operation to switch the camera 100 to the AF mode (an operation mode for performing autofocus) has been performed on the operation unit 228. If it is determined that the operation to switch to the AF mode has been performed (when the camera 100 is switched to the AF mode), the process proceeds to step S404. If it is determined that the operation to switch to the AF mode has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S405.

[0047] In step S404, the system control unit 50 determines whether an AF instruction for designating the position of AF has been performed on the operation unit 228. The "AF instruction" can be, for example, a drag operation on the touch panel 109, a half-press operation of the shutter button 101, or an operation on the analog stick included in the other operation unit 229. Also, when the eye detection unit 118 has a function of gaze input, an operation by gaze input may be an AF instruction. If it is determined that the AF instruction has been performed, the process proceeds to step S406. If it is determined that the AF instruction has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S405.

[0048] In step S405, the system control unit 50 directly displays the live view image acquired in step S401 on the display unit 108 or the EVF217. That is, the system control unit 50 controls the display unit 108 or the EVF 217 to display the entire live view image.

[0049] In step S406, the system control unit 50 acquires information on the AF range (information such as position and shape), which is information for specifying the AF range, from the camera 100 and the lens unit 200. The system control unit 50 determines the AF range in the live view image based on the information on the AF range. The information on the AF range is held in the recording medium 227 or the system memory 218, etc.

[0050] FIG. 5A shows the display of a live view image (live view display). The AF possible range 501 is a partial area of the live view image. Note that, actually, the dashed line indicating the AF possible range 501 is not displayed on the display unit 108 or the EVF 217.

[0051] In step S407, the system control unit 50 enlarges the live view image acquired in step S401 according to the AF possible range determined based on the information acquired in step S406. The system control unit 50 displays the enlarged live view image on the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. The enlargement of the live view image will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5B and 5C.

[0052] FIG. 5B shows the display range 502 in the live view image when the AF possible range 501 is displayed so as to be inscribed in (contact from the inside) the display surface of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. The system control unit 50 determines the display range 502 to be displayed on the display surface when the AF possible range 501 is inscribed in the display surface. The display range 502 is a rectangular area having the same aspect ratio as the aspect ratio of the display surface (monitor) of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 5C, the system control unit 50 enlarges the display range 502 and displays the enlarged display range 502 on the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. Thereby, the AF possible range 501 is displayed in an enlarged state so as to be inscribed in the display surface of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217.

[0054] Also, according to the AF instruction in step S404, the position of the AF frame 503, which is a display item indicating the position of AF, can be freely reset within the AF possible range 501. Here, when the enlarged display of the AF possible range 501 is being performed, the area 504 outside the AF possible range 501 may also be displayed. In this case, the system control unit 50, for example, shades the area 504 outside the AF possible range 501 so that the user can grasp (distinguish) the area inside and outside the AF possible range 501. As long as the user can grasp the area inside and outside the AF possible range 501, methods other than the shaded display, such as surrounding the AF possible range 501 with a frame, may be used.

[0055] Note that the AF possible range 501 may be displayed so as to be circumscribed (in contact from the outside) to the display surface of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217.

[0056] FIG. 5D shows an example of the display range 502 of the live view image when the AF possible range 501 is displayed so as to be circumscribed to the display surface of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. The system control unit 50 determines the display range 502 to be displayed on the display surface when the AF possible range 501 is circumscribed to the display surface. The display range 502 is a rectangular area having the same aspect ratio as the aspect ratio of the display surface (monitor) of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 5E, the system control unit 50 enlarges the display range 502 and displays the enlarged display range 502 on the display surface of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. As a result, the AF possible range 501 is enlarged and displayed so as to be circumscribed to the display surface of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. It is displayed.

[0058] In step S408, the system control unit 50 determines whether an end operation (such as an instruction to shift to the playback mode or a power-off operation) has been performed on the operation unit 228. If it is determined that the end operation has been performed, the shooting process ends and the process of this flowchart ends. If it is determined that the end operation has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S401.

[0059] Although the electronic device according to the first embodiment has been described as the camera 100, the electronic device according to the first embodiment may be a personal computer (PC) or a smartphone that cooperates with (or controls) the camera 100. In such a case, in step S401, an electronic device such as a PC or a smartphone acquires a live view image from the camera 100. Also, in step S404, the electronic device may control the AF position in the camera 100 based on an operation from an application installed in the electronic device.

[0060] In addition, when another display device is connected to the camera 100 as an external output destination in addition to the display unit 108 and the EVF 217 mounted on the camera 100, a live view display in a format different from that of the display unit 108 and the EVF 217 may be performed on the other display device. For example, the display unit 108 and the EVF 217 display a live view image with an enlarged AF available range. The other display device displays the live view image before enlargement.

[0061] Also, the on / off setting of the enlarged display and the on / off setting of the automatic switching display may be arbitrarily set by the user by operating the operation unit 228.

[0062] Furthermore, the system control unit 50 may switch between displaying the entire live view image or enlarging and displaying a part of the live view image according to the specifications of the display unit (display unit 108 and EVF 217) that displays the live view image. For example, when the screen resolution (total number of pixels) of the display unit (display unit 108 and EVF 217) that displays the live view image is larger than a predetermined number, the system control unit 50 may display the entire live view image on the display unit. When the physical size of the display unit (display unit 108 and EVF 217) that displays the live view image is larger than a predetermined size, the system control unit 50 may display the entire live view image on the display unit. Also, when the system control unit 50 displays the live view image on the display unit 108, it may display the entire live view image, and when displaying the live view image on the EVF 217, it may enlarge and display the live view image based on the AF available range. Note that even when the system control unit 50 displays the entire live view image, it may display the live view image so that the user can distinguish between the AF available range and the other range. Also, the display unit that displays the live view image may be another display device connected as an external output destination in addition to the display unit 108 and the EVF 217.

[0063] As described above, according to Embodiment 1, in an imaging device to which a single-lens can be attached, the enlarged display of the AF available range facilitates the designation of the AF position within the AF available range.

[0064] <Embodiment 2> In Embodiment 2, the enlarged display of the AF available range in an imaging device to which a binocular lens can be attached will be described. Note that hereinafter, descriptions of the same points as those in Embodiment 1 (for example, the same configuration and processing as those in Embodiment 1) will be omitted as appropriate.

[0065] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a binocular lens unit 600 according to Embodiment 2. FIG. 6 shows a camera 100 to which the binocular lens unit 600 is attached. Note that in the figure Among the cameras 100 shown in FIG. 6, the components identical to those described in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals as in FIG. 2, and the description of those components will be omitted as appropriate.

[0066] The binocular lens unit 600 is a type of interchangeable lens that is detachable from the camera 100. The binocular lens unit 600 is a binocular lens capable of imaging a right image and a left image with parallax. In the present embodiment, the binocular lens unit 600 has two optical systems, and each of the two optical systems can image a range of a substantially 180-degree wide viewing angle. Specifically, each of the two optical systems of the binocular lens unit 600 can image a subject within a viewing field (angle of view) of 180 degrees in the left-right direction (horizontal angle, azimuth angle, yaw angle) and 180 degrees in the up-down direction (vertical angle, pitch angle, elevation angle). That is, each of the two optical systems can image the range of the front hemisphere.

[0067] The binocular lens unit 600 includes a right optical system 601R having a plurality of lenses and a reflection mirror, etc., a left optical system 601L having a plurality of lenses and a reflection mirror, etc., and a lens system control circuit 603. The right optical system 601R is an example of the first optical system, and the left optical system 601L is an example of the second optical system. The right optical system 601R has a lens 602R disposed on the subject side, and the left optical system 601L has a lens 602L disposed on the subject side. The lens 602R and the lens 602L face the same direction, and their optical axes are substantially parallel.

[0068] The two-eye lens unit 600 is a two-eye lens (VR180 lens) for obtaining an image of VR180, which is one of the formats of VR (Virtual Reality) images enabling two-eye stereoscopic vision. In the present embodiment, the two-eye lens unit 600 has a fisheye lens capable of capturing a range of approximately 180 degrees in each of the right optical system 601R and the left optical system 601L. Note that the range that can be captured by the lenses of the right optical system 601R and the left optical system 601L may be about 160 degrees, which is narrower than the 180-degree range. The two-eye lens unit 600 can form a right image (first image) formed through the right optical system 601R and a left image (second image) formed through the left optical system 601L on one or two imaging elements of the camera on which the two-eye lens unit 600 is mounted.

[0069] The two-eye lens unit 600 is mounted on the camera 100 via a lens mount portion 604 and a camera mount portion 605 of the camera 100. By doing so, the system control unit 50 of the camera 100 and the lens system control circuit 603 of the two-eye lens unit 600 are electrically connected via the communication terminal 124 of the camera 100 and the communication terminal 606 of the two-eye lens unit 600.

[0070] In the present embodiment, the right image formed through the right optical system 601R and the left image formed through the left optical system 601L are simultaneously (as a set) formed on the imaging unit 211 of the camera 100. That is, two optical images formed by the right optical system 601R and the left optical system 601L are formed on one imaging element. The imaging unit 211 converts the formed subject image (optical signal) into an analog electrical signal. By using the two-eye lens unit 600 in this way, two images with a parallax can be simultaneously (as a set) acquired from two locations (optical systems) of the right optical system 601R and the left optical system 601L. By separately VR-displaying the acquired images as an image for the left eye and an image for the right eye, the user can view a stereoscopic VR image in a range of approximately 180 degrees. That is, the user can view the VR180 image in stereoscopy.

[0071] Here, the VR image is an image that can be VR-displayed as described later. The VR image includes an omnidirectional image (full-sphere image) captured by an omnidirectional camera (full-sphere camera), a panorama image having a video range (effective video range) wider than the display range that can be displayed on the display unit at once, and the like. Also, the VR image is not limited to a still image, but also includes a moving image and a live image (an image acquired from a camera almost in real time). The VR image has a video range (effective video range) of up to 360 degrees in the left-right direction and 3 60 degrees in the up-down direction. Also, the VR image includes an image having a wider angle of view than the angle of view that can be captured by a normal camera, or a video range wider than the display range that can be displayed on the display unit at once, even if it is less than 360 degrees in the left-right direction and less than 360 degrees in the up-down direction. The image captured by the camera 100 using the above-described binocular lens unit 600 is a type of VR image. The VR image can be VR-displayed, for example, by setting the display mode of a display device (a display device capable of displaying a VR image) to "VR view". By VR-displaying a VR image having a 360-degree angle of view and changing the posture of the display device by the user in the left-right direction (horizontal rotation direction), a seamless omnidirectional video can be viewed in the left-right direction.

[0072] VR display (VR view) is a display method (display mode) with a variable display range that displays the video within the field of view corresponding to the posture of the display device among VR images. In VR display, there is "monocular VR display (monocular VR view)" that performs transformation (distortion correction) to map the VR image onto a virtual sphere and displays one image. Also, in VR display, there is "binocular VR display (binocular VR view)" that performs transformation to map the VR image for the left eye and the VR image for the right eye onto a virtual sphere respectively and displays them side by side in the left and right regions. By performing "binocular VR display" using the VR images for the left eye and the right eye with a parallax from each other, it is possible to view these VR images stereoscopically. In any VR display, for example, when the user wears a display device such as an HMD (head-mounted display), the video within the field of view corresponding to the orientation of the user's face is displayed. For example, assume that among the VR images, a video within the field of view centered at 0 degrees in the left-right direction (a specific azimuth, for example, north) and 90 degrees in the up-down direction (90 degrees from the zenith, that is, horizontal) is being displayed at a certain point in time. When the posture of the display device is reversed front to back (for example, the display surface is changed from facing south to facing north) from this state, the display range is changed to the video within the field of view centered at 180 degrees in the left-right direction (the opposite azimuth, for example, south) and 90 degrees in the up-down direction among the same VR images. That is, when the user wears an HMD and turns the face from north to south (that is, turns the back), the video displayed on the HMD is also changed from the north video to the south video. Note that the VR image captured using the binocular lens unit 600 of this embodiment is an image (180° image) that captures the range of approximately 180 degrees in the front, and there is no video in the range of approximately 180 degrees in the back. When such an image is VR-displayed and the posture of the display device is changed to the side where there is no video, a blank area is displayed.

[0073] By displaying the VR image in this way, the user can visually obtain a feeling (immersive feeling) as if they were inside the VR image (within the VR space). Note that the method of displaying the VR image is not limited to the method of changing the posture of the display device. For example, the display range may be moved (scrolled) according to a user operation via a touch panel, a direction button, or the like. Also, during VR display (when in the display mode "VR view"), in addition to changing the display range due to a change in posture, the display range may be changed according to a touch move on the touch panel, a drag operation with a mouse, etc., or pressing a direction button. Note that a smartphone mounted on a VR goggle (head-mounted adapter) is a type of HMD.

[0074] Referring to the flowchart of FIG. 7, the shooting mode process executed by the camera 100 according to Embodiment 2 will be described. Steps S701 and S702 are added to each step of the flowchart of the shooting mode process of the camera 100 according to Embodiment 1.

[0075] Note that in step S406, the system control unit 50 acquires information on the AF available range from the camera 100 and the lens unit (lens unit 200 or binocular lens unit 600).

[0076] FIG. 8A shows the live view image before enlargement obtained in step S401. The live view image includes a right image 801R formed through the right optical system of the binocular lens and a left image 801L formed through the left optical system of the binocular lens. The AF available range 802 is, for example, a partial region of one of the left image 801L and the right image 801R. Actually, the dashed line indicating the AF available range 802 is not displayed on either the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. Information such as the position and shape of the AF available range 802 is held inside the camera 100 as information on the AF available range 802.

[0077] ​In step S701, the system control unit 50 determines whether the lens attached to the camera 100 is a binocular lens unit 600 (= whether the live view image has a right image and a left image with a parallax from each other). If it is determined that the lens attached to the camera 100 is the binocular lens unit 600, the process proceeds to step S702. If it is determined that the lens attached to the camera 100 is not the binocular lens unit 600, the process proceeds to step S407.

[0078] In step S702, the system control unit 50 cuts out the image captured using the lens for which AF driving is performed, out of the two images (left image and right image) captured using the binocular lens unit. In FIG. 8B, assuming that the binocular lens unit 600 performs AF driving with the left lens, the left image 801L in the live view image is cut out.

[0079] In step S407, the system control unit 50 enlarges the live view image based on the AF available range acquired in step S406 and displays it on the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. Using FIGS. 8B and 8C, an example of the enlarged live view image when the lens attached to the camera 100 is the binocular lens unit 600 will be described.

[0080] FIG. 8B is a diagram for explaining an example in which when the lens connected to the camera 100 is the binocular lens unit 600, the AF available range 802 is enlarged so as to be inscribed in the display surface of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. Using the image (one of the left image and the right image) cut out from the live view image in step S702, a display range 803 in which the AF available range 802 is inscribed is determined. This display range 803 is a rectangular area having the same aspect ratio as the aspect ratio of the display surface (monitor) of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 8C, the system control unit 50 enlarges the display range 803 and displays the enlarged display range 803 on the display surface of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. Thereby, the AF available range 802 can be displayed in a form inscribed in the display unit 108 or the EVF 217.

[0082] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 8C, the system control unit 50 acquires information on the lens that performs AF driving among the two eyes lenses (left and right lenses), and superimposes and displays an icon 806 indicating the currently displayed image among the left image and the right image. The AF frame 804 and the area 805 outside the AF available range are displayed in the same manner as the AF frame 503 and the area 504 outside the AF available range in the first embodiment.

[0083] Note that a specific process or operation may be associated (assigned) with the area 805 outside the AF available range. For example, when the area 805 on the touch panel 109 is touched, the displayed image may be switched from one of the left image and the right image to the other. Also, when the area 805 is selected by the user by an operation on the operation unit 228 other than the touch panel 109, the displayed image may be switchable. Furthermore, the display format that displays one of the left image and the right image as it is, the display format that displays the entire circumferential fisheye on one side, the display format that displays an image on which orthographic cylindrical conversion has been performed, etc. may be switchable by an operation on the operation unit 228. Thus, when the position in the AF available range 802 is selected (operated), the system control unit 50 moves the AF frame 80 4 to the position, and when the position in the area 805 is selected, a process other than the movement of the position of the AF frame 804 may be executed.

[0084] Also, similar to Embodiment 1, the AF available range 802 may be displayed so as to circumscribe the display surface of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. FIG. 8D shows an example of expanding the AF available range 802 so as to circumscribe the display surface of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. The system control unit 50 determines the display range 803 of the live view image so that the AF available range 802 circumscribes the display surface. The display range 803 is a rectangular area having the same aspect ratio as the aspect ratio of the display surface (monitor) of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 5E, the system control unit 50 expands the display range 803 and displays the expanded display range 803 on the display surface of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. As a result, the AF available range 802 is expanded and displayed so as to circumscribe the display surface of the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. In Embodiment 2, although the shape of the AF available range is circular, other shapes may also be used.

[0086] Details of the processing of other steps (steps other than step S701 and step S702) in the flowchart of FIG. 7 are the same as those in Embodiment 1, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

[0087] According to Embodiment 2, in an imaging device capable of mounting a binocular lens, the expanded display of the AF available range facilitates the designation of the AF position within the AF available range.

[0088] <Embodiment 3> In Embodiments 1 and 2, examples of the expanded display of the AF available range when shooting in the AF mode were described. In Embodiment 3, an example of the expanded display of the AF available range when shooting in the touch-and-shutter mode will be described. Note that the same configurations and processes as those in Embodiments 1 and 2 are omitted from the description. The touch-and-shutter mode is an operation mode in which autofocusing is performed at the touched position and shooting (release) is performed.

[0089] Referring to the flowchart of FIG. 9, the processing of the shooting mode executed by the camera 100 according to Embodiment 3 will be described.

[0090] In step S901, the system control unit 50 acquires a live view image from the imaging unit 211.

[0091] In step S902, the system control unit 50 determines whether the camera 100 is in the touch-and-shutter mode. If it is determined that the camera 100 is in the touch-and-shutter mode, the process proceeds to step S904. If it is determined that the camera 100 is not in the touch-and-shutter mode, the process proceeds to step S903.

[0092] In step S903, the system control unit 50 displays the entire live view image acquired in step S901 as it is on the display unit 108 or the EVF 217.

[0093] In step S904, the system control unit 50 acquires information on the AF available range from the camera 100 and the lens unit 200. The process of acquiring information on the AF available range in step S904 is the same as the acquisition process (the process of step S406) according to Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2.

[0094] In step S905, the system control unit 50 enlarges the live view image based on the AF available range and displays it on the display unit 108 or the EVF 217. The process of enlarging the live view image in step S905 is the same as the process of enlarging the live view image (the process of step S407) according to Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2.

[0095] In step S906, the system control unit 50 determines whether a touch operation has been detected (the user has performed a touch operation). If it is determined that a touch operation has been detected, the process proceeds to step S907. If it is determined that no touch operation has been detected, the process proceeds to step S909.

[0096] In step S907, the system control unit 50 performs focusing (auto-focus) at the position touched by the user.

[0097] In step S908, the system control unit 50 performs shooting (release).

[0098] In step S909, the system control unit 50 determines whether an operation to end shooting has been performed. If it is determined that the operation to end shooting has been performed, the processing of this flowchart ends. If it is determined that the operation to end shooting has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S901.

[0099] As described above, according to this flowchart, during the touch shutter mode, live view display is performed with the AF available range expanded.

[0100] Note that when the AF available range is touched during the expanded display of the AF available range, the AF available range may be further expanded centering on the touched location.

[0101] The user may sometimes want to temporarily change from the expanded display of the AF available range to the overall display in order to check the entire live view image. Therefore, the system control unit 50 may switch from the expanded display of the AF available range to the overall display (display of the entire live view image) in any of the following cases. In this case, after a lapse of a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds or 10 seconds) after switching to the overall display, it may be switched back to the expanded display. · When the camera 100 moves more than the threshold value. · When the subject (object) imaged by the camera 100 moves more than the threshold value. · When an area outside the AF available range in the live view image is touched (operated; selected). · When the display unit that displays the live view image is switched. · When the distance between the camera 100 and the user's eyes is separated by more than a predetermined distance. · When the brightness of the live view image changes by more than a predetermined amount. · When no user operation has been performed on the camera 100 for a time longer than a specified time.

[0102] For example, assume a case where the camera 100 is equipped with a sensor that detects the movement of the camera 100. In this case, the system control unit 50 acquires the amount of movement of the camera 100 from the sensor and determines whether the acquired amount of movement exceeds a first threshold value. When the system control unit 50 determines that the amount of movement exceeds the first threshold value, it determines that the camera 100 has moved more than the threshold value.

[0103] Also, assume a case where the camera 100 can recognize a subject and can track the subject by image processing. In this case, the system control unit 50 calculates the amount of movement of the subject between the previous and subsequent frames during tracking. When the system control unit 50 determines that the amount of movement of the subject exceeds a second threshold value, it determines that the subject has moved more than the threshold value. to.

[0104] In Embodiment 3, the camera 100 expands and displays the AF available range at the timing when it switches to the touch-and-shutter mode. By doing this, it becomes easier to select a desired subject within the AF available range in the touch-and-shutter mode, and it becomes easier to focus on the selected subject and take a picture.

[0105] Note that each of the various controls described as being performed by the system control unit 50 may be performed by one piece of hardware, or the entire control of the apparatus may be performed by a plurality of pieces of hardware (for example, a plurality of processors or circuits) sharing the processing.

[0106] Also, although the present invention has been described in detail based on its preferred embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments, and various forms within the scope not departing from the gist of this invention are also included in the present invention. Furthermore, each of the above-described embodiments merely shows one embodiment of the present invention, and it is also possible to appropriately combine the embodiments.

[0107] In the above-described embodiments, the case where the present invention is applied to the camera 100 has been described as an example. However, this is not limited to this example, and the present invention is applicable to any device having an imaging function. That is, the present invention is applicable to electronic devices such as mobile phones and smartphones having a camera function.

[0108] Further, the present invention is not limited to the imaging device main body, and is also applicable to a control device that communicates with an imaging device (including a network camera) via wired or wireless communication and remotely controls the imaging device. Examples of devices for remotely controlling an imaging device include devices such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and desktop PCs. Based on operations performed on the control device side or processes performed on the control device side, by notifying the imaging device of commands for performing various operations and settings from the control device side, the imaging device can be remotely controlled. Further, a live view image captured by the imaging device may be received via wired or wireless communication and displayed on the control device side.

[0109] In the above, "when A is equal to or greater than B, proceed to step S1, and when A is smaller (lower) than B, proceed to step S2" may be read as "when A is greater (higher) than B, proceed to step S1, and when A is less than or equal to B, proceed to step S2". Conversely, "when A is greater (higher) than B, proceed to step S1, and when A is less than or equal to B, proceed to step S2" may be read as "when A is equal to or greater than B, proceed to step S1, and when A is smaller (lower) than B, proceed to step S2". Therefore, as long as there is no contradiction, "A or more" may be read as "greater (higher; longer; more) than A", and "A or less" may be read as "smaller (lower; shorter; less) than A". And "greater (higher; longer; more) than A" may be read as "A or more", and "smaller (lower; shorter; less) than A" may be read as "A or less".

[0110] Note that each functional unit in the above embodiments (each modification example) may be individual hardware, or may not be. The functions of two or more functional units may be realized by common hardware. Each of the multiple functions of one functional unit may be realized by individual hardware. Two or more functions of one functional unit may be realized by common hardware. Also, each functional unit may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC, FPGA, or DSP, or may not be. For example, the device may have a processor and a memory (storage medium) in which a control program is stored. And the functions of at least some of the functional units of the device may be realized by the processor reading and executing the control program from the memory.

[0111] (Other Embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (for example, an ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0112] The disclosure of the above embodiments includes the following configurations, methods, programs, and media. (Configuration 1) Image acquisition means for acquiring a live view image obtained by the imaging device capturing the real space, Determination means for determining a first range that is a range in which the position of autofocus in the live view image can be specified, Control means for controlling the display means to display a part of the live view image based on the first range, An electronic device characterized by comprising. (Configuration 2) The control means controls the display means so that the first range is displayed in contact with the display surface of the display means from the inside, The electronic device according to Configuration 1, characterized in that. (Configuration 3) The control means displays the first range and a second range that is not the first range within the range of the live view image displayed on the display means so that the user can distinguish between them. The electronic device according to Configuration 2, characterized by this. (Configuration 4) 1) When a position in the first range is selected by the user, a first process of moving a display item indicating the autofocus position to the selected position is executed. 2) When a position in the second range is selected by the user, there is further provided processing means for executing a second process different from the first process. The electronic device according to Configuration 3, characterized by this. (Configuration 5) The control means controls the display means so that the first range is displayed in contact with the display surface of the display means from the outside. The electronic device according to Configuration 1, characterized by this. (Configuration 6) When the imaging device is not in a specific operation mode, the control means controls the display means to display the entire live view image. The electronic device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 5, characterized by this. (Configuration 7) The specific operation mode is an operation mode for executing autofocus. The electronic device according to Configuration 6, characterized by this. (Configuration 8) The specific operation mode is an operation mode for performing shooting after executing autofocus at the touched position. The electronic device according to Configuration 6, characterized by this. (Configuration 9) The live view image further includes determination means for determining whether or not it has a first image and a second image having a parallax with each other. When the determination means determines that the live view image has the first image and the second image, the determination means determines that the autofocus in either the first image or the second image is Determine the range in which the autofocus position can be specified as the first range. The electronic device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 8, characterized in that. (Configuration 10) Even if the display means is displaying a part of the live view image based on the first range, the control means switches the display of the display means so as to display the entire live view image in a specific case. The electronic device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that. (Configuration 11) The specific case is a case where it is determined that the imaging device is moving more than a first threshold value. The electronic device according to Configuration 10, characterized in that. (Configuration 12) The specific case is a case where it is determined that an object imaged by the imaging device is moving more than a second threshold value. The electronic device according to Configuration 10, characterized in that. (Configuration 13) The specific case is a case where an operation is performed on a second range that is not the first range in the live view image. The electronic device according to Configuration 10, characterized in that. (Configuration 14) The first range is determined based on at least any one of information about the imaging device and information about a lens attached to the imaging device. The electronic device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 13, characterized in that. (Configuration 15) Having the imaging device that acquires the live view image by imaging the real space. The electronic device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 14, characterized in that. (Method) An image acquisition step of acquiring a live view image obtained by the imaging device imaging the real space, A determination step of determining a first range that is a range in which the autofocus position in the live view image can be specified, A control step of controlling a display means to display a part of the live view image based on the first range; A method for controlling an electronic device, characterized by comprising the above. (Program) A program for causing a computer to function as each means of the electronic device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 15. (Medium) A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to function as each means of the electronic device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 15.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0113] 100: Camera (electronic device), 211: Imaging unit, 50: System control unit

Claims

1. an image acquisition unit configured to acquire a live view image obtained by the imaging device capturing the real space; a determination unit configured to determine a first range that is a range in which the position of autofocus in the live view image can be specified; a control unit configured to control the display unit to display a part of the live view image based on the first range; An electronic device, comprising:

2. The control unit controls the display unit such that the first range is displayed in contact with the display surface of the display unit from the inside. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein:

3. The control unit displays the live view image displayed on the display unit such that the user can distinguish between the first range and a second range that is not the first range. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein:

4. 1) When a position in the first range is selected by the user, a first process of moving a display item indicating the position of autofocus to the selected position is executed; 2) When a position in the second range is selected by the user, the electronic device further comprises a processing unit configured to execute a second process different from the first process. The electronic device according to claim 3, wherein:

5. The control unit controls the display unit such that the first range is displayed in contact with the display surface of the display unit from the outside. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein:

6. When the imaging device is not in a specific operation mode, the control unit controls the display unit to display the entire live view image. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein:

7. The specific operation mode is an operation mode for performing autofocus. The electronic device according to claim 6, characterized in that.

8. The specific operation mode is an operation mode for performing shooting after performing autofocus on a touched position. The electronic device according to claim 6, characterized in that.

9. The electronic device further includes determination means for determining whether the live view image has a first image and a second image having a parallax with each other. When the determination means determines that the live view image has the first image and the second image, the determination means determines, as the first range, a range in which the position of autofocus in either one of the first image and the second image can be specified. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that.

10. Even when the display means is displaying a part of the live view image based on the first range, the control means switches the display of the display means so as to display the entire live view image in a specific case. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that.

11. The specific case is a case where it is determined that the imaging device is moving more than a first threshold value. The electronic device according to claim 10, characterized in that.

12. The specific case is a case where it is determined that an object to be imaged by the imaging device is moving more than a second threshold value. The electronic device according to claim 10, characterized in that.

13. The specific case is a case where an operation is performed on a second range that is not the first range in the live view image. The electronic device according to claim 10, characterized in that...

14. The first range is determined based on at least one of information regarding the imaging device and information regarding a lens attached to the imaging device. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that...

15. Having the imaging device that acquires the live view image by imaging the real space. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that...

16. An image acquisition step of acquiring a live view image obtained by the imaging device imaging the real space; A determination step of determining a first range that is a range in which the position of autofocus in the live view image can be specified; A control step of controlling a display means to display a part of the live view image based on the first range. A control method for an electronic device, characterized by comprising the above steps.

17. A program for causing a computer to function as each means of the electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

18. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to function as each means of the electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

Images