Accessory device, imaging device, method for controlling these devices, and program

Abstract

To provide an accessory device that has improved convenience for a user.SOLUTION: An accessory device (300) removably attached to an imaging device (100) has: an accessory control unit (301) that can acquire a first setting value of the accessory device stored in the imaging device through communication with the imaging device; and an accessory storage unit (305) that stores a second setting value of the accessory device. The accessory control unit determines the preferential use of the first setting value or the second setting value as a setting value of the accessory device according to a user's setting.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an accessory device, an imaging device, a control method therefor, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses an imaging device that is capable of setting the setting values of an external strobe device, and has a storage means for storing the setting values of the external strobe device and a control means for clearing the setting values when a change in the attachment of the external strobe device is detected. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-31462 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the imaging device disclosed in Patent Document 1, when a different external strobe device is attached, the settings of the external strobe device must be reset. For example, different types of external strobe devices may have different configurable functions and settings. Also, some users may want to use the settings originally set for one external strobe device for other external strobe devices, so if the settings are changed unintentionally, the settings must be reset again. This reduces user convenience.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an accessory device that is more convenient for users. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An accessory device according to one aspect of the present invention is an accessory device that can be attached to and detached from an imaging device, and includes an accessory control unit that can acquire a first setting value of the accessory device stored in the imaging device through communication with the imaging device, and an accessory memory unit that stores a second setting value of the accessory device, and the accessory control unit determines whether to prioritize the first setting value or the second setting value as the setting value of the accessory device, depending on a user setting.

[0007] Other objects and features of the present invention are illustrated in the following examples. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, an accessory device that is more convenient for the user can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an imaging system in each embodiment. [Figure 2] 10 is an example of a screen displayed when changing settings of an accessory device in the imaging device. [Figure 3] 10 is an example of setting values when different accessory devices are attached to the imaging device. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing a setting process for an accessory device in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 10 is an example of a setting screen for accessory setting in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is an example of setting items and setting value information in first accessory setting information in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 4 is an example of a first accessory setting value and a setting value that can be set by an accessory device in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a setting process for an accessory device in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is an example of an accessory function setting screen displayed on the imaging device in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] 11 is a flowchart showing a setting process for an accessory device in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0011] First, an imaging system 10 in each embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram of the imaging system 10. The imaging system 10 is configured to include a camera body (imaging device) 100, a lens device (interchangeable lens) 200, and an accessory device (illumination device) 300.

[0012] The camera body 100 and the lens device 200 are mechanically and electrically connected via a mount contact group 103. In each embodiment, the lens device 200 is detachably attached to the camera body 100, but this is not limiting and the lens device 200 may be configured integrally with the camera body 100. The accessory device 300 is detachably attached to the top surface of the camera body 100. In each embodiment, the accessory device 300 is a strobe device (lighting device), but this is not limiting. The accessory device 300 may be another device such as a microphone, video light, or transmitter, as long as it can be connected to the camera body 100.

[0013] The camera body 100 and the accessory device 300 are interchangeable. The camera body 100 and the accessory device 300 are electrically connected via an accessory communication unit 108, a camera startup state notification unit 109, and an accessory connection detection unit 308. In addition, the camera body 100 and the accessory device 300 can be fixed together by setting the accessory lock unit 307 to the lock position.

[0014] The camera control unit 101 is a microcomputer that controls the operation of each unit of the camera body 100. The image sensor 102 is a photoelectric conversion element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor. The image sensor 102 may include an infrared cut filter, a low-pass filter, and the like.

[0015] The shutter 104 is disposed between the image sensor 102 and the lens device 200. In response to instructions from the camera control unit 101, the shutter 104 closes to block light from the image sensor 102 when no image is being captured, and opens during live view or image capture to guide incident light that has passed through the lens device 200 to the image sensor 102.

[0016] Camera operation unit 105 has operation members operated by the user, detects operations performed by the user via buttons, switches, dials, and connected devices attached to camera body 100, and sends signals according to operation instructions to camera control unit 101. Camera operation unit 105 outputs to camera control unit 101 an instruction signal (SW1 signal) that is issued when the user presses the release button halfway, and an instruction signal (SW2 signal) that is issued when the user presses the release button all the way down.

[0017] Camera display unit 106 displays imaging information, captured images, and a camera setting menu in response to instructions from camera control unit 101. A user changes the setting values of camera body 100 from the camera setting menu displayed on camera display unit 106 by operating camera operation unit 105. At this time, camera control unit 101 performs processing to write the setting values of camera body 100 to camera storage unit 107. In each embodiment, information stored in camera storage unit 107 includes, but is not limited to, setting information of accessory device 300, setting values and adjustment values of camera body 100, etc.

[0018] The camera control unit 101 controls the operation of the camera body 100 based on the output signal of the camera operation unit 105. When the output signal of the camera operation unit 105 is the SW1 signal, the camera control unit 101 drives the image sensor 102 to capture an image and repeats photometry control to measure the brightness of the subject from the captured image. The camera control unit 101 also determines the shutter speed, aperture value (F-number), and ISO sensitivity to be used when capturing an image from the photometry result. Here, the shutter speed, aperture value, and ISO sensitivity to be used when capturing an image are collectively referred to as exposure control values. The exposure control values determined by the camera control unit 101 are displayed on the screen of the camera display unit 106. When the output signal of the camera operation unit 105 is the SW2 signal, the camera control unit 101 drives the diaphragm (aperture diaphragm) 203 in the lens device 200, sets the sensitivity (ISO sensitivity) of the image sensor 102, and controls the shutter 104 to irradiate light onto the image sensor 102.

[0019] The camera control unit 101 displays a captured image on the screen of the camera display unit 106 according to image data acquired from the image sensor 102, and also performs processing to write the image data to the camera storage unit 107. The camera control unit 101 notifies the accessory device 300 of the camera state via the camera startup state notification unit 109 according to the camera power state. For example, if the output signal of the camera operation unit 105 is a power switch off signal, the camera control unit 101 cuts off the power supply. Accordingly, the signal level of the camera startup state notification unit 109 becomes low, and the accessory device 300 detects that the power state of the camera body 100 has been turned off.

[0020] Next, the configuration of the lens device 200 will be described. The lens control unit 201 is a microcomputer that controls the operation of each unit of the lens device 200. The imaging lens 202 is composed of multiple lenses and forms an image of a subject on the image sensor 102. The lens device 200 (imaging lens 202) also has an aperture 203 for adjusting the amount of light, and a focus lens (not shown) for adjusting the focus. The lens control unit 201 adjusts the amount of light taken into the camera body 100 and the focus according to instructions from the camera control unit 101, by control via the mount contact group 103.

[0021] Next, the configuration of the accessory device 300 will be described. The accessory control unit 301 is a microcomputer that controls the operation of each unit of the accessory device 300. The accessory control unit 301 can communicate with the camera control unit 101 via the accessory communication unit 108, and can receive light emission control instructions and camera information from the camera control unit 101 and transmit accessory information. The communication method may include multiple communications (for example, one high-rate communication and the other low-rate communication). For example, the configuration may have a communication method divided into a CPU that manages power restrictions on the camera body 100 and status change signals of the accessory device 300, and a CPU that mainly controls image capture of the camera body 100.

[0022] The light emitting unit 302 is configured with a discharge tube, a light emitting capacitor, a light emitting circuit, and a light emitting optical system, and is capable of emitting a flash of light. The accessory operating unit 303 has members that are operated by the user, and detects operations performed by the user via buttons, dials, switches, etc. attached to the accessory device 300, and sends a signal according to the operation instruction to the accessory control unit 301.

[0023] The accessory display unit 304 displays the light emission setting, radio wave setting, and operating status of the accessory in response to instructions from the accessory control unit 301. The accessory storage unit 305 is a non-volatile memory electrically connected to the accessory control unit 301, and the accessory control unit 301 performs settings in the accessory storage unit 305 via serial communication. Information stored in the accessory storage unit 305 in this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, control information, setting information, and adjustment values for the accessory device 300.

[0024] The accessory wireless communication unit 306 transmits and receives wireless communication information to and from the wirelessly connected accessory device 300 via a wireless antenna (not shown). The accessory control unit 301 can transmit and receive control information to and from other wirelessly connected accessory devices via the accessory wireless communication unit 306.

[0025] The accessory locking portion 307 is a member for fixing the accessory device 300 to an accessory shoe portion (not shown) of the camera body 100. By moving the accessory locking portion 307 to a predetermined position, the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 can be fixed together.

[0026] The accessory connection detection unit 308 outputs an accessory detection signal to the camera control unit 101 when the accessory lock unit 307 moves to the unlocked position or the locked position. This allows the camera control unit 101 to detect the connection state. Note that the accessory lock unit 307 and the accessory connection detection unit 308 may be electrically connected to each other, so that the signal is output in conjunction with the accessory lock unit 307. The accessory control unit 301 may be configured to acquire the output signal of the accessory connection detection unit 308 by detecting the switch state of the accessory lock unit 307.

[0027] The accessory zoom unit 309 can change the irradiation angle at the time of light emission by driving a motor provided in the accessory zoom unit 309 based on a pulse signal output by the accessory control unit 301. The user can change the setting of the irradiation angle by operating the accessory operation unit 303. Alternatively, the camera control unit 101 may acquire the focal length of the lens from the lens control unit 201 and notify the accessory control unit 301 via the accessory communication unit 108, thereby changing the setting of the irradiation angle.

[0028] Generally, strobe photography is used in various scenes, such as backlit daytime scenes, strobe photography in which a flash is directed at a subject in the dark, and wireless multi-flash strobe photography in which multiple strobes are used to create an image using flash. To achieve photographic expression in various scenes, users take photos by changing various settings of external strobe devices, such as wireless multi-flash settings, sync settings, and flash exposure compensation.

[0029] FIG. 2 shows an example of a menu screen for changing settings on an external flash device in an imaging device. For example, a user can operate the imaging device while an external flash device is attached to the imaging device, transition to an external flash function setting screen as shown in FIG. 2, select a function of the external flash device, and change its settings. Examples of external flash device functions whose settings can be changed include the flash mode (FIG. 2(a)), wireless setting (FIG. 2(b)), beam angle setting (FIG. 2(c)), sync setting (FIG. 2(d)), and flash exposure compensation value (FIG. 2(e)). Note that other settings may also be displayed and configurable. In addition to the above-mentioned methods, a user can change settings by operating the external flash device itself, which is equipped with a display member and an operation member.

[0030] A user may own multiple external strobe devices and may remove the external strobe device attached to the imaging device and attach a different external strobe device to take a photograph. For this reason, it is desirable that the setting values do not need to be changed even when a different external strobe device is attached to the imaging device.

[0031] 3(a) and (b) show an example of two external strobe devices with different settings. External strobe device A (FIG. 3(a)) and external strobe device B (FIG. 3(b)) have different settings for the light emission mode, illumination angle, flash compensation, or light emission amount. In the example using these external strobe devices, the method disclosed in Patent Document 1, when external strobe device A is attached to an imaging device, the imaging device acquires setting values from external strobe device A using a communication means and stores the setting values in a storage means of the imaging device. When a connection detection means for detecting a connection detects that the imaging device is disconnected from external strobe device A, the imaging device clears the setting values of external strobe device A.

[0032] When a user changes the strobe device from external strobe device A to external strobe device B and attempts to take a photograph using the settings of external strobe device A, the user must reset the settings of external strobe device A to external strobe device B. This is inconvenient for users who want to take photographs using the same settings for external strobe device A and external strobe device B.

[0033] Therefore, it is preferable that the settings of external strobe device A connected to the imaging device in Fig. 3(a) be retained in the imaging device, and that when external strobe device B is attached to the imaging device, the settings become the same as those of external strobe device A, as shown in Fig. 3(c). For this reason, for example, the imaging device acquires and retains setting information for the external strobe function from the attached external strobe device A using a communication means, and notifies external strobe device B of the setting information when external strobe device B is attached. External strobe device B then resets the notified setting information as its own setting information.

[0034] Each example will be described in detail below. [Example]

[0035] First, the setting process of the accessory device 300 in the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing the setting process of the accessory device 300 in this embodiment. Each step in Fig. 4 is mainly executed by the camera control unit 101 or the accessory control unit 301. In this embodiment, a method will be described in which, when a user attaches the accessory device 300 to the camera body 100, the setting values (accessory function settings) of the accessory device held by the camera body 100 are reflected in the accessory device 300.

[0036] First, in step S401, the accessory control unit 301 detects connection with the camera body 100 by monitoring the accessory connection detection unit 308 or the camera startup state notification unit 109, and determines whether or not the camera connection state has changed (whether or not a connection has been detected). If it is determined in this determination that the camera connection state has changed (that a connection with the camera body 100 has been detected), the process proceeds to step S402. On the other hand, if the camera connection state has not changed, the accessory control unit 301 continues to monitor the accessory connection detection unit 308 or the camera startup state notification unit 109.

[0037] In step S402, the accessory control unit 301 performs processing (connection processing) required to establish a connection state with the camera body 100. Here, the connection processing may be triggered when the power level of the terminals connecting the camera body 100 and the accessory device 300 exceeds a specified value, or the connection processing may be performed via the accessory communication unit 108 in accordance with a connection protocol.

[0038] Next, in step S403, the camera control unit 101 or the accessory control unit 301 determines the accessory setting priority (prioritized accessory setting). In this embodiment, the accessory setting priority (setting priority mode) has a first accessory setting priority (first mode) and a second accessory setting priority (second mode). In the first accessory setting priority mode, the accessory setting (first setting value) stored in the camera storage unit 107 of the camera body 100 is preferentially set as the setting value of the accessory device 300. On the other hand, in the second accessory setting priority mode, the accessory setting (second setting value) stored in the accessory storage unit 305 of the accessory device 300 is preferentially set as the setting value of the accessory device 300.

[0039] Here, the accessory setting priority setting screen will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is an example of the accessory setting priority setting screen. As shown in Fig. 5(a), it is possible to select either the camera body 100 or the accessory device (flash) 300 as the accessory setting priority. In Fig. 5(a), the flash is set as the accessory setting priority. In this case, the second accessory setting takes priority.

[0040] The user can switch between the first accessory setting priority and the second accessory setting priority by operating the accessory operation unit 303 to switch the accessory setting priority setting. Note that in this embodiment, the accessory setting priority information is stored in the accessory device 300, but this is not limited to this. For example, the accessory setting priority information may be stored in the camera body 100, and the information may be notified via the accessory communication unit 108. Alternatively, the accessory setting priority information may be stored in the accessory device 300, and a setting screen similar to that shown in FIG. 5 may be displayed on the camera body 100 to allow the user to set the information, and the information may be notified to the accessory device 300.

[0041] If it is determined in step S403 that the first accessory setting is prioritized, the process proceeds to step S404. On the other hand, if it is determined that the second accessory setting is prioritized, the process ends.

[0042] In step S404, the camera control unit 101 notifies the accessory device 300 of the first accessory setting (first accessory setting information, first setting value) held by the camera body 100 via the accessory communication unit 108. This allows the accessory control unit 301 to acquire the first accessory setting information. FIG. 6 shows an example of setting items and setting value information in the first accessory setting information. The camera control unit 101 selects setting value information (setting value) corresponding to the setting item shown in FIG. 6, and notifies the accessory device 300 of the selected setting value information.

[0043] In this embodiment, the setting items include, but are not limited to, a light emission mode, wireless settings, flash exposure compensation value, light emission amount, illumination angle, and shutter synchronized light emission setting. The setting items may also include, for example, a custom function setting (not shown) that allows detailed settings of the accessory device 300 to be switched. The custom function setting includes a setting for whether to enable light emission from the light emitter 302, which assists the autofocus function, in situations where it is difficult to focus on a subject due to low light when the autofocus function of the camera body 100 is enabled. Furthermore, the setting value information includes several pieces of setting value information for each setting item, but is not limited to these.

[0044] Next, in step S405, the accessory control unit 301 determines whether the automatic update setting for the second accessory setting is enabled (whether the acquired first accessory setting is to be automatically updated as the second accessory setting). For example, the accessory setting unit (accessory operation unit 303, accessory display unit 304) sets, through a user operation, whether the second accessory setting stored in the accessory storage unit 305 is to be automatically updated. If the second accessory setting is set to be automatically updated, the process proceeds to step S407. On the other hand, if the second accessory setting is set not to be automatically updated, the process proceeds to step S406.

[0045] An example of a setting screen for the accessory automatic update setting will now be described with reference to Fig. 5. As shown in Fig. 5(b), the user can set the first accessory setting priority or the second accessory setting priority by operating the accessory operation unit 303 to "ON" or "OFF," which can automatically reflect the first accessory setting priority or the second accessory setting priority. As with the accessory setting priority shown in Fig. 5(a), the setting for the accessory setting automatic update may be configured to be held in the camera body 100.

[0046] In step S406, the accessory control unit 301 stores the second accessory setting already set in the accessory device 300 in the accessory storage unit 305. For example, when the accessory control unit 301 is set to the first accessory setting, the accessory control unit 301 changes the second accessory setting stored in the accessory storage unit 305 to the first accessory setting and stores the second accessory setting in the accessory storage unit 305 again. That is, when it is set in step S405 that the second accessory setting is not to be automatically updated, the accessory control unit 301 stores the second accessory setting in the accessory storage unit 305. Alternatively, the camera setting unit (camera operation unit 105, camera display unit 106) may set whether or not to automatically update the second accessory setting through a user operation. When it is determined that the second accessory setting is not to be automatically updated, the accessory control unit 301 stores the second accessory setting in the accessory storage unit 305 by communicating with the camera body 100. This allows the user to reset the second accessory setting.

[0047] In step S407, the accessory control unit 301 selects the accessory setting (setting value information) to be updated from the list of first accessory settings according to the user's setting. The accessory control unit 301 performs update processing for each setting item of the selected setting value information in the subsequent steps S408 to S411.

[0048] In step S408, the accessory control unit 301 determines whether the accessory setting selected in step S407 is a setting value that can be set in its own accessory device 300. If the selected accessory setting is a setting value that can be set, the process proceeds to step S409. On the other hand, if the selected accessory setting is not a setting value that can be set, the process proceeds to step S410.

[0049] In step S409, the accessory control unit 301 reflects the selected first accessory setting in the second accessory setting, thereby enabling the accessory control unit 301 to control the accessory device 300 based on the reflected first accessory setting.

[0050] In step S410, the accessory control unit 301 reflects in the second accessory setting a setting value (predetermined accessory setting) that can be set by the accessory device 300. Here, the second accessory setting before reflection may be set as the predetermined accessory setting, or a predetermined setting value (fixed setting value) may be set as the second accessory setting.

[0051] Here, with reference to FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b), a specific situation in which inconsistencies in accessory setting values occur will be described. FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b) are diagrams showing an example of the first accessory setting notified from the camera body 100 when the accessory device 300 is an external flash device, and an example of the configurable information for external flash device A and external flash device B. External flash device A in FIG. 7(b) is compatible with all of the first accessory setting values in FIG. 7(a) and can reflect all of the setting values in the second accessory setting. On the other hand, external flash device B in FIG. 7(b) does not have a wireless setting and cannot be configured if the light emission amount is 1 / 1024 or less, resulting in inconsistencies. For example, by replacing the wireless setting with a non-wireless setting or clipping the light emission amount to 1 / 1024, it can be used without inconsistencies even in the case of external flash device B.

[0052] 4, the camera control unit 101 or the accessory control unit 301 determines whether or not all first accessory settings (all setting values) have been reflected. If all first accessory settings have been reflected, this flow ends. On the other hand, if the first accessory settings have not been reflected, the process proceeds to step S407, where an unreflected first accessory setting is selected and the subsequent processes are repeated.

[0053] In this embodiment, the accessory control unit 301 can acquire a first setting value of the accessory device 300 stored in the camera body 100 by communicating with the camera body 100, and the accessory storage unit 305 stores a second setting value of the accessory device 300. The accessory control unit 301 also determines whether to prioritize the first setting value or the second setting value as the setting value of the accessory device 300, depending on the user's setting. Note that this determination may be made by the camera control unit 101 instead of the accessory control unit 301. Alternatively, the camera control unit 101 and the accessory control unit 301 may cooperate to make the determination.

[0054] Preferably, when it is determined that the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 are connected, the accessory control unit 301 determines whether to use the first accessory setting or the second accessory setting with priority.

[0055] Preferably, the accessory device 300 has an accessory setting unit (accessory operation unit 303, accessory display unit 304) that sets whether the first set value or the second set value is to be used with priority through a user operation. The accessory control unit 301 determines whether the first set value or the second set value is to be used with priority, according to the setting by the accessory setting unit.

[0056] Alternatively, camera body 100 may have a camera setting unit (camera operation unit 105, camera display unit 106) that sets whether the first setting value or the second setting value is to be used with priority through user operation. In this case, accessory control unit 301 can determine whether the first setting value or the second setting value is to be used with priority through communication with camera body 100.

[0057] Preferably, the accessory control unit 301 determines that the first setting value should be used preferentially, and if it determines that the accessory device 300 cannot set the first setting value, it uses a predetermined setting value (a second setting value or a fixed setting value) that the accessory device 300 can set.

[0058] According to this embodiment, even if a different accessory device 300 is attached to the camera body 100, consistent accessory settings can be notified to the accessory device 300, and image capture can be resumed using the same settings. As a result, it is possible to improve user convenience. [Example]

[0059] Next, the setting process of the accessory device 300 in the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the setting process of the accessory device 300 in this embodiment. Each step in Fig. 8 is mainly executed by the camera control unit 101 or the accessory control unit 301. In this embodiment, a method for updating the accessory setting values held by the camera body 100 when the settings are updated from the accessory function setting screen of the camera display unit 106 in the camera body 100 will be described. Note that this embodiment is premised on the assumption that the camera body 100 and the accessory device 300 are already attached and are capable of communication via the accessory communication unit 108.

[0060] First, in step S801, the camera control unit 101 determines whether or not the user has performed an operation to select one of the accessory functions on the accessory function setting screen of the camera body 100. FIGS. 9(a) to 9(d) show an example of screen transitions of the accessory function setting screen displayed on the camera display unit 106 when the accessory device 300 is an external flash device. In FIG. 9(a), the item currently selected by the cursor (in the display example of FIG. 9(a), the flash mode is selected by the cursor) is shaded in black, and it is possible to move the cursor to another accessory function by operating the camera operation unit 105. By operating an operation member of the camera operation unit 105 that prompts the user to make a decision, it is possible to transition to a setting change screen for the accessory function item currently selected by the cursor, and this operation is considered to be an operation to select one of the accessory functions.

[0061] If it is determined in step S801 that an operation to select one of the accessory functions (a setting selection operation by the user) has been performed, the process proceeds to step S802. On the other hand, if it is determined that a setting selection operation by the user has not been performed, the process returns to step S801, and the camera control unit 101 monitors whether an operation to select one of the accessory functions has been performed.

[0062] In step S802, the camera control unit 101 acquires the configurable information of the accessory device 300 via the accessory communication unit 108. For example, in the light emission modes of FIG. 7(b), external strobe device A can be set to ETTL / Manual / MULTI / Gr. On the other hand, external strobe device B can be set to only two setting values, ETTL / Manual. By displaying a setting screen on the camera display unit 106 of the camera body 100 according to the configurable information of the attached accessory device 300, it is possible to prompt the user to make settings without confusion.

[0063] Next, in step S803, the camera control unit 101 displays the setting values that can be set by the accessory device 300 based on the setting availability information acquired in step S802 (transitioning to a setting change screen for each function). Fig. 9(b) is an example of a light emission mode selection screen to which transition occurs when a light emission mode is selected in Fig. 9(a). By operating the camera operation unit 105 within this selection screen, the user can prompt the user to change the setting to the setting value that the user desires.

[0064] Next, in step S804, the camera control unit 101 determines whether or not the setting value has been changed by a user operation (whether or not there has been a setting change). If it is determined that there has been a setting change, the process proceeds to step S805. On the other hand, if it is determined that there has not been a setting change, the process returns to step S804, and the camera control unit 101 monitors whether or not the setting value has been changed. By operating the camera operation unit 105 as shown in FIG. 9(c), it is possible to move the cursor selection of the setting value of the accessory function to be selected, and by operating an operation member of the camera operation unit 105 that prompts the user to make a decision, it is possible to transition to the setting value change processing from step S805 onwards.

[0065] In step S805, the camera control unit 101 acquires the changed setting value information based on the output of the camera operation unit 105 in step S804. For example, if the camera operation unit 105 is operated to prompt a decision at the position shown in Fig. 9(c), the changed setting value information for the light emission mode will be Manual mode, and the display of the light emission mode will be changed to Manual mode as shown in Fig. 9(d).

[0066] Subsequently, in step S806, the camera control unit 101 acquires accessory setting priority information from the accessory device 300 via the accessory communication unit 108. The accessory setting priority information is information indicating whether the first accessory setting (first setting value) or the second accessory setting (second setting value) is to be given priority in setting.

[0067] Next, in step S807, the camera control unit 101 determines whether the accessory setting priority information acquired in step S806 indicates the first accessory setting priority. If it is determined that the accessory setting priority information indicates the first accessory setting priority, the process proceeds to step S808. On the other hand, if it is determined that the accessory setting priority information does not indicate the first accessory setting, the process proceeds to step S809.

[0068] In step S808, the camera control unit 101 stores the changed setting value information acquired in step S805 in the camera storage unit 107, and the process proceeds to step S809.

[0069] In step S809, the camera control unit 101 notifies the accessory device 300 of the changed setting value information acquired in step S805 via the accessory communication unit 108, and ends this flow. When the accessory device 300 receives communication of the accessory setting change, it updates the setting value.

[0070] According to this embodiment, it is possible to update the first accessory setting even when the setting value is changed on the accessory setting screen of the camera body 100. Therefore, even when a different accessory device 300 is attached, it is possible to resume image capture without changing the setting value to one that the user does not intend. [Example]

[0071] Next, a setting process of the accessory device 300 in the third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing the setting process of the accessory device 300 in the third embodiment. Each step in Fig. 10 is mainly executed by the camera control unit 101 or the accessory control unit 301. In the present embodiment, a method for updating the second accessory setting when the connection between the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 is disconnected will be described.

[0072] First, in step S1001, the accessory control unit 301 detects a change in the connection status with the camera body 100 and determines whether the connection between the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 has been disconnected. One method for detecting a change in the connection status is for the user to operate the accessory lock unit 307 from the locked position to the unlocked position, and for the connection to be disconnected to be detected by detecting the output of the accessory connection detection unit 308 that has changed as a result of that operation. Another detection method is for the camera control unit 101 to monitor the power status of the camera body 100, and if the power is turned off, notify the accessory control unit 301 of the camera power off state via the camera startup state notification unit 109, and determine the disconnection based on that output. While this embodiment is assumed to include both detection methods, either one of the detection methods may be employed, or a detection method different from the above-described detection method may also be employed.

[0073] If the connection between the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 is disconnected in step S1001 (if it is determined that the accessory device 300 has been removed from the camera body 100), the process proceeds to step S1002. On the other hand, if it is determined that the connection between the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 has not been disconnected, the accessory control unit 301 repeats the determination in step S1001.

[0074] In step S1002, the accessory control unit 301 determines whether the accessory setting priority setting value set in the accessory device 300 is the first accessory setting priority. If it is determined in step S1002 that the first accessory setting is the priority setting, the process proceeds to step S1003. On the other hand, if the accessory setting priority setting value is not the first accessory setting (first setting value), that is, if the second accessory setting (second setting value) is the priority setting, the process ends. Note that if it is determined in step S1002 that the first accessory setting is the priority setting, the first accessory setting is set in the accessory device 300.

[0075] In step S1003, the accessory control unit 301 determines whether the second accessory setting set in the accessory device 300 is set to be automatically updated. If the second accessory setting is set to be automatically updated, the process proceeds to step S1004. On the other hand, if the second accessory setting is not set to be automatically updated, the process proceeds to step S1005.

[0076] In step S1004, the accessory control unit 301 stores the first accessory setting in the accessory storage unit 305. At this time, the first accessory setting is set in the accessory device 300. By storing the first accessory setting in the accessory storage unit 305 again, it becomes possible to continue using the setting as the second accessory setting even when the accessory device 300 is powered off.

[0077] In step S1005, the accessory control unit 301 acquires the second accessory setting stored in advance in the accessory storage unit 305, and reflects the second accessory setting in the setting of the accessory device 300. This enables the accessory control unit 301 to change the setting from the first accessory setting to the second accessory setting.

[0078] In this embodiment, when the connection between the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 is disconnected while the first accessory setting is set, the accessory control unit 301 changes the setting value of the accessory device 300 from the first accessory setting to the second accessory setting.

[0079] According to this embodiment, when the accessory device 300 is detached from the camera body 100, it is possible to reflect the second accessory setting before attachment to the camera body 100 in the accessory device 300. Furthermore, even after the accessory device 300 is detached, it is possible to use the accessory device 300 while maintaining the first accessory setting.

[0080] (Other Examples) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described 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 (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0081] According to each embodiment, when an accessory device is reattached to another accessory device, imaging can be resumed using the same settings as the accessory device before attachment, without having to reset the individual accessory functions. Furthermore, imaging can be resumed using the setting values set in each accessory device. Therefore, according to each embodiment, an accessory device, an imaging device, a control method therefor, and a program therefor that are more convenient for users can be provided.

[0082] The disclosure of each embodiment includes the following configurations and methods. (Configuration 1) An accessory device that is detachable from an imaging device, an accessory control unit capable of acquiring a first setting value of the accessory device stored in the imaging device through communication with the imaging device; an accessory storage unit that stores a second setting value of the accessory device; The accessory device is characterized in that the accessory control unit determines, depending on a user's setting, whether to prioritize the first setting value or the second setting value as the setting value of the accessory device. (Configuration 2) further comprising an accessory setting unit configured to set whether the first setting value or the second setting value is to be used with priority, according to a user operation; The accessory device described in configuration 1 is characterized in that the accessory control unit determines whether to use the first setting value or the second setting value preferentially, depending on the setting by the accessory setting unit. (Configuration 3) The accessory control unit of the accessory device described in configuration 1 is characterized in that it determines whether to prioritize the first setting value or the second setting value through communication with the imaging device, which has a camera setting unit that sets whether to prioritize the first setting value or the second setting value through user operation. (Configuration 4) An accessory device described in any of configurations 1 to 3, characterized in that when the accessory control unit determines that the first setting value should be used preferentially and when it determines that the accessory device cannot set the first setting value, the accessory control unit uses a predetermined setting value that the accessory device can set. (Configuration 5) The accessory device according to configuration 4, wherein the predetermined setting value is the second setting value or a fixed setting value. (Configuration 6) The accessory device described in any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that when the accessory control unit sets the first setting value, it changes the second setting value stored in the memory unit to the first setting value and stores the second setting value in the memory unit again. (Configuration 7) an accessory setting unit that sets whether or not the second setting value stored in the accessory storage unit is to be automatically updated by a user operation; The accessory device described in configuration 6, characterized in that the accessory control unit stores the second setting value in the memory unit when the second setting value is set not to be automatically updated. (Configuration 8) The accessory device described in configuration 6 is characterized in that when the accessory control unit determines not to automatically update the second setting value through communication with the imaging device having a camera setting unit that sets whether or not to automatically update the second setting value stored in the accessory storage unit through user operation, the accessory control unit stores the second setting value in the storage unit. (Configuration 9) The accessory device described in any one of configurations 1 to 8, characterized in that when it is determined that the accessory device and the imaging device are connected, the accessory control unit determines whether to use the first setting value or the second setting value with priority. (Configuration 10) The accessory device described in any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that when the accessory control unit determines that the connection between the accessory device and the imaging device has been disconnected while the first setting value is set, it changes the setting value of the accessory device from the first setting value to the second setting value. (Configuration 11) An accessory device described in any one of configurations 1 to 10, characterized in that the setting values include values related to at least one of the light emission mode, wireless setting, dimming compensation value, light emission amount, irradiation angle, shutter synchronized light emission setting, and custom function setting of the accessory device. (Configuration 12) 12. The accessory device according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, wherein the accessory device is a lighting device. (Configuration 13) An imaging device to which an accessory device can be attached or detached, a camera storage unit that stores a first setting value of the accessory device; a camera control unit that transmits the first setting value to the accessory device through communication with the accessory device; The imaging device is characterized in that the camera control unit determines, depending on the user's settings, whether to prioritize using the first setting value or the second setting value stored in the accessory device as the setting value of the accessory device. (Configuration 14) The imaging device described in configuration 13 is characterized in that, when the first setting value is changed by a user operation in a setting in which the first setting value is used preferentially, the camera control unit stores the changed first setting value in the camera memory unit. (Method 1) A control method for an accessory device detachable from an imaging device, comprising: determining whether to use a first setting value stored in the imaging device or a second setting value stored in the accessory device as a setting value of the accessory device in accordance with a user setting; acquiring the first setting value through communication with the imaging device when it is determined that the first setting value is to be used; and setting the first setting value as the setting value of the accessory device. (Method 2) A control method for an imaging device to which an accessory device can be attached, comprising: determining whether to use a first setting value stored in the imaging device or a second setting value stored in the accessory device as a setting value of the accessory device in accordance with a user setting; a step of transmitting the first setting value through communication with the accessory device when it is determined that the first setting value is to be used. (Configuration 15) A program that causes a computer to execute the accessory device control method described in Method 1. (Configuration 16) A program causing a computer to execute the method for controlling an imaging device according to Method 2.

[0083] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0084] 100 Camera body (imaging device) 300 Accessory Equipment 301 Accessory control unit 305 Accessory Memory Unit

Claims

1. An accessory device that is detachable from an imaging device, an accessory control unit capable of acquiring a first setting value of the accessory device stored in the imaging device through communication with the imaging device; an accessory storage unit that stores a second setting value of the accessory device; The accessory device is characterized in that the accessory control unit determines, in accordance with a user setting, whether to use the first setting value or the second setting value as a setting value for the accessory device with priority.

2. an accessory setting unit configured to set whether the first setting value or the second setting value is to be used with priority, in response to a user operation; The accessory device according to claim 1 , wherein the accessory control unit determines whether to use the first set value or the second set value with priority, depending on the setting by the accessory setting unit.

3. The accessory device described in claim 1, characterized in that the accessory control unit determines whether to use the first setting value or the second setting value with priority through communication with the imaging device having a camera setting unit that sets whether to use the first setting value or the second setting value with priority through user operation.

4. The accessory device described in claim 1, characterized in that when the accessory control unit determines that the first setting value should be used preferentially and when it determines that the accessory device cannot set the first setting value, it uses a predetermined setting value that the accessory device can set.

5. The accessory device according to claim 4 , wherein the predetermined setting value is the second setting value or a fixed setting value.

6. The accessory device described in claim 1, characterized in that when the accessory control unit sets the first setting value, it changes the second setting value stored in the memory unit to the first setting value and stores the second setting value in the memory unit again.

7. an accessory setting unit that sets whether or not the second setting value stored in the accessory storage unit is to be automatically updated by a user operation; The accessory device according to claim 6 , wherein the accessory control unit stores the second setting value in the storage unit when the second setting value is set not to be automatically updated.

8. The accessory device described in claim 6, characterized in that when the accessory control unit determines not to automatically update the second setting value through communication with the imaging device having a camera setting unit that sets whether or not to automatically update the second setting value stored in the accessory memory unit through user operation, the accessory control unit stores the second setting value in the memory unit.

9. The accessory device according to claim 1, characterized in that, when it is determined that the accessory device and the imaging device are connected, the accessory control unit determines whether to use the first setting value or the second setting value preferentially.

10. The accessory device described in claim 1, characterized in that when the accessory control unit determines that the connection between the accessory device and the imaging device has been disconnected while the first setting value is set, it changes the setting value of the accessory device from the first setting value to the second setting value.

11. An accessory device as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the setting values include values related to at least one of the light emission mode, wireless setting, dimming compensation value, light emission amount, illumination angle, shutter synchronized light emission setting, and custom function setting of the accessory device.

12. The accessory device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the accessory device is a lighting device.

13. An imaging device to which an accessory device can be attached or detached, a camera storage unit that stores a first setting value of the accessory device; a camera control unit that transmits the first setting value to the accessory device through communication with the accessory device; An imaging device characterized in that the camera control unit determines, depending on the user's settings, whether to prioritize using the first setting value or the second setting value stored in the accessory device as the setting value of the accessory device.

14. The imaging device according to claim 13, characterized in that, when the first setting value is changed by a user operation in a setting in which the first setting value is used preferentially, the camera control unit stores the changed first setting value in the camera memory unit.

15. A control method for an accessory device detachable from an imaging device, comprising: determining whether to use a first setting value stored in the imaging device or a second setting value stored in the accessory device as a setting value of the accessory device in accordance with a user setting; acquiring the first setting value through communication with the imaging device when it is determined that the first setting value is to be used; and setting the first setting value as the setting value of the accessory device.

16. A control method for an imaging device to which an accessory device can be attached, comprising: determining whether to use a first setting value stored in the imaging device or a second setting value stored in the accessory device as a setting value of the accessory device in accordance with a user setting; and transmitting the first setting value through communication with the accessory device when it is determined that the first setting value is to be used.

17. A program causing a computer to execute the accessory device control method according to claim 15.

18. A program causing a computer to execute the method for controlling an imaging device according to claim 16.

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