Imaging apparatus, control method, and program

Abstract

To enable a personal appearance check within a photographic space.SOLUTION: An imaging apparatus of one aspect of this technology is an imaging apparatus having a photographic space being a space in which a user becomes a subject to perform photographing. The imaging apparatus includes a camera installed in the photographing space to image the user as a subject, a mirror installed in at least either a left side or a right side of the camera on the basis of a standing position of the user, a display part for displaying a guide screen including information for guiding a photographing preparation by using the mirror, and a control part to be started after finishing displaying photographing of a still picture by camera on the guide screen. The technology can be applied to a photograph creation game machine for providing a series of games for printing a photographed image on seal paper.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present technology relates to a photographing device, a control method, and a program that enable grooming checks to be performed within a photographing space. [Background technology]

[0002] Photo sticker machines are known in the art. These machines photograph users, allow them to edit the photographed image, and print the edited image on sticker paper. Photo sticker machines are installed in amusement facilities and the like.

[0003] The flow of a game provided by a photo sticker machine typically involves taking a photo of the user in the photo booth, then moving the user to the editing booth, editing the image according to the operations performed in the editing booth, and printing the edited image on sticker paper.

[0004] Users will check their appearance using a hand mirror or other device before entering the photo booth and starting the photo shoot. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-126389 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] There is a need to check one's appearance immediately before a photo shoot.

[0007] If a mirror for checking appearance were simply installed in the photo booth, people could check their appearance right up until the moment the photo was taken, but the strobe light used during the photo shoot could be reflected by the mirror, which could have a negative effect on the image.

[0008] The present technology has been developed in light of such circumstances, and makes it possible to check personal appearance within a shooting space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] An image capturing device according to one aspect of the present technology is an image capturing device having an image capturing space in which a user is the subject of image capturing, and includes a camera installed in the image capturing space and capturing images of the user as the subject, a mirror installed on at least either the left or right side of the camera based on the user's standing position, a display unit that displays a guidance screen containing information guiding the user to prepare for image capturing using the mirror, and a control unit that causes the camera to start capturing still images after the guidance screen finishes displaying.

[0010] In one aspect of the present technology, a guidance screen including information guiding a user to prepare for photography using a mirror is displayed, and the camera starts capturing a still image after the display of the guidance screen ends. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present technology, it is possible to check appearance within the shooting space. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the exterior of a photo sticker machine according to the present technology; [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the exterior of the photo sticker machine from another angle. [Figure 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 illustrates an example of the configuration of a pre-selection unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of the imaging unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of an imaging unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view showing the configuration around the camera unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the orientation of the mirror. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a standing position mark. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between the direction of the mirror and the standing position of the user. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the colors of curtains. [Figure 12] FIG. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating examples of mirror shapes. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the front side of an editing unit. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a photo sticker machine. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a control unit. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a photographing process of a photo sticker machine. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a guide screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] <<1. Photo Sticker Machine Configuration>> <Overall appearance> 1 and 2 are perspective views showing an example of the external configuration of the photo sticker machine 1. Also, Fig. 3 is a top view of the photo sticker machine 1 seen from above.

[0014] The photo sticker machine 1 is a game machine that provides photographed images and edited images. The photo sticker machine 1 provides images to users by printing the images on sticker paper or by making the images viewable on the user's mobile terminal. The photo sticker machine 1 is installed in amusement facilities such as game arcades and stores.

[0015] The users of the photo sticker machine 1 are mainly young women, including female junior high school and high school students. The photo sticker machine 1 can be enjoyed by groups of two users. Of course, the photo sticker machine 1 can also be enjoyed by one user or by three or more users.

[0016] In the photo sticker machine 1, the user takes a photo of themselves as the subject. The user then edits (also known as doodling) the selected image from the photographed images to combine it with a composite image such as handwritten text or a stamp image. This edits the photographed image into a colorful image. The user then receives a sticker sheet on which the edited image is printed, completing the series of games.

[0017] The photo sticker machine 1 can be said to be a photo creation game machine that provides a photo sticker creation game.

[0018] 1, the photo sticker machine 1 is basically configured by placing a photographing unit 11 and an editing unit 12 in contact with each other. The photographing unit 11 and the editing unit 12 are electrically connected.

[0019] The photographing unit 11 has a box-shaped housing large enough for a person to enter, and is composed of a pre-selection section 21, a photographing section 22, a ceiling section 23, and a background section 24. The pre-selection section 21 is installed on the side of the photographing section 22. The space in front of the pre-selection section 21 becomes a pre-selection space B1 (Figure 3) where the pre-selection work is carried out. The photographing section 22 and the background section 24 are installed a predetermined distance apart, and their upper parts are connected to each other by the ceiling section 23. The space surrounded by the photographing section 22, ceiling section 23, and background section 24 becomes a photographing space B2 where the photographing work is carried out.

[0020] As part of the pre-selection process, the pre-selection unit 21 provides guidance introducing the games provided by the photo sticker machine 1 and performs various settings for the photography process performed in the photography space B2. The pre-selection unit 21 is provided with a coin slot through which users insert payment, a touch panel monitor used for various operations, and the like. The pre-selection unit 21 guides users in the pre-selection space B1 to the photography space B2 depending on the availability of the photography space B2.

[0021] The photographing unit 22 is a device for photographing the user as a subject. The photographing unit 22 is located in front of the user who has entered the photographing space B2. In front of the photographing unit 22 facing the photographing space B2, there are provided a camera CAM, a touch panel monitor used for various operations, a strobe unit that emits light in accordance with the photographing timing, and the like.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 3, the surface of the imaging section 22 facing the imaging space B2 is formed by a semi-cylindrical curved surface C22.

[0023] Assuming that the left side as seen from a user facing forward (camera CAM side) in the photographing space B2 is the left side and the right side is the right side, the left side of the photographing unit 22 is made up of side panel 32A and the right side is made up of side panel 32B. The front of the photographing unit 22 is made up of front panel 31. The above-mentioned pre-selection unit 21 is installed on side panel 32A. The pre-selection unit 21 may also be installed on side panel 32B.

[0024] Background section 24 is composed of rear panel 41, side panel 42A, and side panel 42B. Rear panel 41 is a plate-like member located behind a user facing forward. Side panel 42A is attached to the left end of rear panel 41 and is a plate-like member that is thicker than side panel 32A. Side panel 42B is attached to the right end of rear panel 41 and is a plate-like member that is thicker than side panel 32B.

[0025] As shown in Fig. 3, the surface of the background unit 24 facing the photographing space B2 is formed by a semi-cylindrical curved surface C24. A background curtain is lowered from a curtain unit provided on the ceiling unit 23 on the side of the curved surface C24 facing the photographing space B2. The curtain unit is configured so that a white background curtain is rolled up and stored, and the background curtain is lowered. When the background curtain inside the curtain unit is lowered, the curved surface C24 in the photographing space B2 is covered with the background curtain.

[0026] The outer surfaces of side panel 32A and side panel 42A are generally flush with each other. The tops of side panel 32A and side panel 42A are connected by ceiling portion 23. The outer surfaces of side panel 32B and side panel 42B are also generally flush with each other. The tops of side panel 32B and side panel 42B are also connected by ceiling portion 23.

[0027] The side panel 32A and the side panel 42A are members that surround the left side of the photographing space B2, and the side panel 32B and the side panel 42B are members that surround the right side of the photographing space B2.

[0028] The opening formed by the side panel 32A, the ceiling 23, and the side panel 42A serves as an entrance to the photography space B2. The opening formed by the side panel 32B, the ceiling 23, and the side panel 42B also serves as an entrance to the photography space B2.

[0029] The ceiling portion 23 that constitutes the ceiling of the photographing space B2 is provided with a ceiling sheet made of a vinyl material or a plate-like member, a strobe light emitting tube that emits a strobe light at the timing of photographing, and a ceiling strobe unit that has inside it a constant light source that emits constant light.

[0030] The editing unit 12 is a device for editing the captured images. The editing unit 12 is connected to the photographing unit 11 so that one side of the editing unit 12 is in contact with the front panel 31 of the photographing section 22.

[0031] 1 is the configuration of the front side of the editing unit 12, components used for editing (scribbling) are provided on both the front and rear sides of the editing unit 12. With this configuration, two groups of users can perform editing work simultaneously.

[0032] The front side of the editing unit 12 is mainly composed of a vertical surface 51 and an inclined surface 52 formed above the vertical surface 51. A tablet-integrated monitor and a touch pen are provided on the inclined surface 52 as components used for editing work. A plate-like portion 53 is provided above the inclined surface 52, to which can be attached, for example, a resin sheet with various designs.

[0033] The rear side of the editing unit 12 is basically configured in the same way as the front side of the editing unit 12.

[0034] An editing unit side panel 13, which is a rectangular plate-like member, is provided on the left side of the editing unit 12 (the side opposite to the front panel 31 of the imaging unit 22). The editing unit side panel 13 is formed in the shape of a housing with a thickness of, for example, about 10 cm.

[0035] The side surface (edge ​​surface) of editing unit side panel 13 on the front side of editing unit 12 shown in Fig. 1 is substantially flush with side panel 32A and side panel 42A. The side surface (edge ​​surface) of editing unit side panel 13 on the rear side of editing unit 12 shown in Fig. 2 is substantially flush with side panel 32B and side panel 42B. Furthermore, the top surface (ceiling surface) of editing unit side panel 13 is substantially flush with the top surfaces of shooting section 22, ceiling section 23, and background section 24 that constitute shooting unit 11.

[0036] With this structure, the photo sticker machine 1 is configured to have a housing having a rectangular parallelepiped shape as a whole.

[0037] Curtain frames 61A and 61B are provided above the editing unit 12. One ends of the curtain frames 61A and 61B, which are provided parallel to each other, are fixed to the upper ends of the side panels 32A and 32B, respectively. The other ends of the curtain frames 61A and 61B are joined to the upper ends of both side surfaces of the editing unit side panel 13, respectively.

[0038] Curtains (not shown) are attached to the curtain frames 61A, 61B to prevent the spaces in front and behind the editing unit 12 from being seen from the outside. The spaces in front and behind the editing unit 12, surrounded by the curtains, the front panel 31 of the imaging unit 22, and the editing unit side panel 13, respectively, become editing spaces B3-1, B3-2 where users can perform editing work.

[0039] A sticker outlet for providing printed sticker sheets to the user is provided on the editing unit side panel 13. The space in front of the editing unit side panel 13 becomes a print waiting space B4 where the user waits for the printed sticker sheets to be provided.

[0040] Next, the configuration of each part that constitutes the photo sticker machine 1 will be described.

[0041] <Configuration of pre-selection section> FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the pre-selection unit 21. As shown in FIG.

[0042] A touch panel monitor 71 is provided above the pre-selection unit 21 installed on the side panel 32A. The touch panel monitor 71 is composed of a monitor such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and a touch panel stacked on it. The touch panel monitor 71 has the function of displaying various GUIs (Graphical User Interfaces) and accepting selection operations by the user. The touch panel monitor 71 displays a screen used to select the number of users, etc.

[0043] A speaker 72 is provided below the touch panel monitor 71. The speaker 72 outputs voice guidance for the pre-selection process, background music (BGM), sound effects, etc. Next to the speaker 72, a coin slot 73 is provided where users can insert coins.

[0044] Moreover, above the pre-selection section 21 on the side panel 32A, an illumination section 74 made up of fluorescent tubes is provided.

[0045] <Composition of the filming department> Fig. 5 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of the imaging unit 22. Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the imaging unit 22.

[0046] The photographing section 22 is configured so as to be surrounded by a front panel 31 and side panels 32A and 32B provided so as to be in contact with both left and right ends of the front panel 31.

[0047] Curved panels 81-1, 81-2, and 81-3 that form the curved surface C22 are provided on the front side of the imaging unit 22. The curved panel 81-1 forms the left side of the curved surface C22 when it is vertically divided into three, the curved panel 81-2 forms the center side of the curved surface C22 when it is vertically divided into three, and the curved panel 81-3 forms the right side of the curved surface C22 when it is vertically divided into three.

[0048] The curved panels 81-1, 81-2, and 81-3 are made of acrylic resin. Specifically, the curved panels 81-1 and 81-3 are made of opaque, for example, black acrylic resin. On the other hand, the curved panel 81-2 is made of translucent, for example, black acrylic resin.

[0049] A camera unit 82 is provided on curved panel 81-2 at a location that is approximately the center of the front side of imaging unit 22. Camera unit 82 is made up of a camera 91, a touch panel monitor 92, and a smartphone holder 93.

[0050] Camera 91 is, for example, a single-lens reflex camera, and is built into camera unit 82 so that the lens is exposed. Camera 91 has an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor, and captures images of users in the shooting space. Moving images (hereinafter also referred to as live view images) captured by camera 91 are displayed in real time on touch panel monitor 92. Still images captured by camera 91 at the timing of shooting, such as when a shooting instruction is issued, are saved as captured images.

[0051] The touch panel monitor 92 is built into the camera unit 82 below the camera 91 so that its display surface is exposed. The touch panel monitor 92 is composed of a monitor such as an LCD and a touch panel laminated on it. The touch panel monitor 92 has a function as a live view monitor that displays moving images captured by the camera 91, and a function that displays various GUIs and accepts user operations. The touch panel monitor 92 displays moving images (live view images) and still images (captured images) captured by the camera 91.

[0052] A smartphone holder 93 for placing a smartphone (portable terminal) is provided on the front surface of camera unit 82 to the right of the lens of camera 91. Smartphone holder 93 is formed to be long enough to place a smartphone in landscape orientation.

[0053] The user places his / her smartphone in the smartphone holder 93 and can have the smartphone take moving or still images of himself / herself playing the game.

[0054] On the curved panel 81-2, an upper strobe unit 83 is installed above the camera unit 82, with its curved light-emitting surface facing the user. The upper strobe unit 83 shines light from above and in front of the user, in an area centered on the user's face. The upper strobe unit 83 incorporates a strobe light-emitting tube capable of strobe emission and an LED bulb. The upper strobe unit 83 constantly illuminates the shooting space and emits light at the timing of shooting, irradiating the user, who is the subject, with strobe light.

[0055] Above the camera unit 82, at positions that sandwich the upper strobe unit 83 from the left and right when viewed from the front, multiple ambient light sources 84 are provided. The ambient light sources 84 are arranged in a vertical line on the back side of the curved panel 81-2. The ambient light sources 84 are formed, for example, from LED bulbs.

[0056] A box-shaped strobe unit 85, which is formed to have approximately the same width as the curved panel 81-2 and protrudes from the curved panel 81-2, is provided below the camera unit 82. The box-shaped strobe unit 85 emits light onto the lower body and feet of the user. The box-shaped strobe unit 85 also incorporates a strobe light-emitting tube capable of strobe emission and an LED bulb. The box-shaped strobe unit 85 constantly illuminates the shooting space and emits light at the timing of shooting, irradiating the user, who is the subject, with strobe light.

[0057] Box-shaped portions 86A and 86B are formed between box-shaped strobe unit 85 and side panel 32A, and between box-shaped strobe unit 85 and side panel 32B, respectively. The front surfaces of box-shaped portions 86A and 86B are substantially flush with the front surface of box-shaped strobe unit 85. The top surface (upper surface) of each of box-shaped portions 86A and 86B is fan-shaped and is used as a luggage storage area for users performing photography work to place their baggage, etc.

[0058] <About Mirror> Mirror Orientation FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view showing the configuration around the camera unit 82. As shown in FIG.

[0059] 7, a mirror 87 is installed above the box-shaped portion 86A at approximately the same height as the camera unit 82. Because it is installed on the top surface 86A-1 of the box-shaped portion 86A, which is used as a luggage rack, the user will notice the mirror 87 when entering the photography space B2 and placing their luggage there. The mirror 87 is used by the user to check their appearance before starting photography work.

[0060] The mirror 87 is installed in a state where it protrudes from the curved panel 81-1 so that the mirror surface faces the center of the imaging space B2.

[0061] FIG. 8 is a plan view showing the orientation of the mirror 87. As shown in FIG.

[0062] 8, mirror 87 is attached to a rectangular pillar-shaped support part 88. Support part 88 is fixed to front panel 31, side panel 32A, etc., and passes through curved panel 81-1 to be exposed on the front side beyond the surface of curved panel 81-1.

[0063] 8 indicates the optical axis of the camera 91. The dashed line L2 indicates the perpendicular line passing through the center of the mirror surface of the mirror 87.

[0064] Since the mirror 87 is installed obliquely toward the center of the photographing space B2, a perpendicular line passing through the center of the mirror surface of the mirror 87 intersects with the optical axis of the camera 91 in a plan view.

[0065] A floor sheet 25 is attached to the floor of the shooting space B2. A standing position mark 25A is printed at a position slightly forward of the center of the floor sheet 25 (a position closer to the camera 91). A position P1 on the standing position mark 25A, which is on the optical axis of the camera 91 in a plan view, is the center position of the standing position during shooting.

[0066] The intersection point between a perpendicular line (dashed line L2) passing through the center of the mirror surface of mirror 87 and the optical axis (chain line L1) of camera 91 is closer to camera 91 than position P1, which is the center of the standing position. In other words, mirror 87 is installed obliquely in a direction different from the direction of the center of the standing position so that it faces a position forward of the center of the standing position.

[0067] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of the standing position mark 25A.

[0068] The upward direction in the diagram indicated by the outline arrow is the direction of the camera 91. With position P1 as the center, standing position P11 is set on the left side, and standing position P12 is set on the right side.

[0069] Standing position P11 is the standing position of a user standing on the left side as viewed from camera 91. Standing position P12 is the standing position of a user standing on the right side as viewed from camera 91. In the example of FIG. 9, standing positions P11 and P12 are each represented by a triangular mark. It is possible to represent each standing position using a mark of another shape, etc.

[0070] As will be described later, during photography, guidance to guide each user to their respective standing positions is provided using the screen display of the touch panel monitor 92. The two users will follow the guidance to align their standing positions and begin photography.

[0071] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between the direction of the mirror 87 and the standing position of the user.

[0072] 10 shows a situation in which user U1 is standing at position P11 and user U2 is standing at position P12. User U1 and user U2 are playing the game on the photo sticker machine 1 together.

[0073] Since the mirror 87 is installed facing in a direction different from the direction of the center position of the standing positions, when the users U1 and U2 are standing in their respective positions, the images of the users U1 and U2 are less likely to be reflected in the mirror 87.

[0074] Furthermore, even if the figures of users U1 and U2 are captured in the image, it is difficult to see them from where users U1 and U2 are standing.

[0075] In this way, the mirror 87 is installed so that when the user stands in the standing position, the user's own image is unlikely to be reflected in the mirror and the user's reflected image is unlikely to be seen.

[0076] This allows users to concentrate on taking pictures. If users' reflections in mirror 87 were easily visible from their standing positions, they would become concerned about their own reflection and be unable to concentrate on the display on touch panel monitor 92, but this can be prevented.

[0077] Furthermore, when a photographic image is taken, each strobe device emits light, and the user is irradiated with strobe light. If the mirror 87 were installed facing the user's standing position, direct light and reflected light from the strobe light would be reflected on the mirror surface of the mirror 87, and light other than direct strobe light from the strobe unit (strobe device) would be irradiated onto the user, which could adversely affect the appearance of the photographic image. However, this can be prevented.

[0078] When the strobe light reflected from the mirror surface of the mirror 87 shines on the user, the strobe light is reflected in the user's eyes as an unwanted catch light, adversely affecting the image. As such, when taking photos in a photography space where a strobe unit is installed, it is usually difficult to install a mirror in the photography space because of the various adverse effects on the image. The photo sticker machine 1 can be said to be a device that installs a mirror in the photography space while solving these difficulties.

[0079] Furthermore, the color of the inner surface of the curtain 43B attached to the entrance (the entrance on the right side of the photographing space B2) in the direction of the perpendicular line to the mirror surface of the mirror 87 is black as shown in FIG.

[0080] When viewed from each standing position, the mirror 87 mainly reflects the black curtain 43B, so the user is less bothered by the reflection of the mirror 87 than when the user's own image or a colorful object is reflected, which also enables the user to concentrate on taking pictures.

[0081] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the inner surface (on the side of the photographing space B2) of the curtain 43B attached to the entrance.

[0082] 11, colored portions are black portions. Various low-brightness colors such as gray and navy blue can be used for the color of the inside of curtain 43B as long as they can suppress reflection of strobe light and are not noticeable even if reflected in mirror 87. The color of the inside surface of curtain 43A (FIG. 10) attached to the entrance on the left side of photography space B2 is also the same color as curtain 43B.

[0083] Mirror shape FIG. 12 is a front view of the mirror 87.

[0084] As shown in Fig. 12, mirror 87 has an asymmetric, distorted, and generally cloud-like shape. The outline of mirror 87 is formed by connecting a straight line portion 87-1 that forms the bottom side with a curved line portion 87-2 that forms the rest of the mirror. Curved line portion 87-2 is formed by a wave-like shape that connects a gentle concave curved line portion and a convex curved line portion. Note that center position P21 of mirror surface 87A is, for example, the center position of a rectangle that surrounds the outline of mirror 87.

[0085] Here, a box-shaped strobe unit 85 is located near the mirror 87 (see, for example, Figure 7). By making the bottom side straight, it is possible to reduce the area of ​​the mirror surface that reflects the strobe light from the box-shaped strobe unit 85 toward the user.

[0086] It is possible to adopt a shape other than a cloud shape as the shape of mirror 87. For example, it is possible to eliminate the straight line portion 87-1 and have the entire outline of mirror 87 formed by a gentle wave shape that connects a concave arc curved portion and a convex arc curved portion.

[0087] 13A to 13C, the outline shape of mirror 87 can also be circular, elliptical, or rectangular. Mirrors having the shapes shown in Figures 13A to 13C are also installed facing obliquely, like mirror 87.

[0088] <Editing unit composition> FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the front side of the editing unit 12 (the editing space B3-1 side in FIG. 3).

[0089] A tablet-built-in monitor 161 is provided approximately in the center of the slope 52. A touch pen 162L is provided on the left side of the tablet-built-in monitor 161. A touch pen 162R is provided on the right side of the tablet-built-in monitor 161. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the touch pen 162L and the touch pen 162R, they will be collectively referred to as touch pen 162.

[0090] In the plate-like portion 53 provided above the slope 52, a transparent acrylic plate 163 to which, for example, a resin sheet with various designs can be attached is supported by support frames 164A, 164B, and 164C.

[0091] The rear side of the editing unit 12 (the editing space B3-2 side in FIG. 3) is basically configured in the same way as the front side of the editing unit 12.

[0092] An LED fluorescent tube is provided between the acrylic plate 163 on the front side of the editing unit 12 and the acrylic plate 163 on the rear side of the editing unit 12. A transparent sheet with a predetermined design is attached to the acrylic plate 163, and the LED fluorescent tube is made to emit light from the rear side of the sheet, thereby making the design on the sheet stand out.

[0093] <Photo sticker machine configuration block diagram> Fig. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the photo sticker machine 1. In Fig. 15, the same components as those described above are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted where appropriate.

[0094] 15, the photo sticker machine 1 is configured by connecting a pre-selection unit 302, a photographing unit 304, editing units 305A and 305B, and a printing unit 306 to a PC (Personal Computer) unit 301 via an external input / output interface 303. The PC unit 301 as an information processing device is mounted inside the housing of the editing unit 12, for example.

[0095] The PC section 301 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 311, a read only memory (ROM) 312, and a random access memory (RAM) 313, which are interconnected by a bus 314.

[0096] The CPU 311 executes a predetermined program and controls the overall operation of the photo sticker machine 1. The ROM 312 stores the programs and data executed by the CPU 311. The RAM 313 temporarily stores the data and programs processed by the CPU 311.

[0097] An input / output interface 315 is further connected to the bus 314. A storage unit 316, a communication unit 317, and a drive 318 are connected to the input / output interface 315.

[0098] The storage unit 316 is a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk or flash memory. The storage unit 316 stores various setting information and the like supplied from the CPU 311. The information stored in the storage unit 316 is read out by the CPU 311 as appropriate.

[0099] The communication unit 317 is an interface for a network such as the Internet. The communication unit 317 communicates with external devices under the control of the CPU 311. The communication unit 317 transmits an image selected by a user to an image management server managed by, for example, the manufacturer of the photo sticker machine 1. The image transmitted from the communication unit 317 is allocated a predetermined storage area and stored therein, and is then displayed on or downloaded to a mobile terminal that has accessed the image management server.

[0100] Removable media 319, such as an optical disk or semiconductor memory, is appropriately attached to the drive 318. Programs and data read from the removable media 319 by the drive 318 are supplied to the CPU 311, where they are stored in the storage unit 316 or installed.

[0101] An external input / output interface 303 is connected to the input / output interface 315. The PC unit 301 controls each unit via the external input / output interface 303.

[0102] The pre-selection unit 302 performs pre-selection processing for users in the pre-selection space B1. The pre-selection unit 302 is configured to include a touch panel monitor 71, a speaker 72, and a coin processing unit 321.

[0103] The touch panel monitor 71 displays various selection screens and accepts user operations on the selection screens under the control of the PC unit 301. An input signal representing the content of the user operation is supplied to the PC unit 301, and various settings are made.

[0104] The coin processing unit 321 detects the insertion of coins into the coin insertion slot 73. When the coin processing unit 321 detects that a predetermined amount of coins has been inserted, it outputs a start signal to the PC unit 301 to instruct the start of the game.

[0105] The photographing unit 304 is configured to include a camera 91 , a touch panel monitor 92 , a lighting device 331 , a curtain unit 332 , and a speaker 333 .

[0106] The camera 91 takes a photograph in accordance with shutter control by the PC section 301, and outputs the photographed image (image data) obtained by the photographing to the PC section 301.

[0107] The lighting device 331 is a strobe unit and a constant light source within the shooting space B2, and emits light in accordance with a lighting control signal supplied from the PC section 301. The lighting device 331 includes an upper strobe unit 83, a constant light source 84, a box-type strobe unit 85, and the like.

[0108] The curtain unit 332 is provided in the background section 24 in the photographing space B2. The curtain unit 332 raises and lowers a background curtain in accordance with a lift control signal supplied from the PC section 301.

[0109] The speaker 333 is configured by a speaker provided at a predetermined position in the imaging space B2.

[0110] Editing unit 305A is configured to include tablet built-in monitor 161, touch pens 162L and 162R, and speaker 341. Editing unit 305B performs editing processing for users in editing space B3-2 and has the same configuration as editing unit 305A. Hereinafter, editing units 305A and 305B will be collectively referred to as editing unit 305 as appropriate.

[0111] The tablet built-in monitor 161 displays an editing screen (doodle screen) and accepts user operations on the editing screen under the control of the PC unit 301. An input signal representing the content of the user's operation is supplied to the PC unit 301, and the captured image to be edited is edited.

[0112] The printing section 306 is configured to include a printer 351. A sticker paper unit 352 is attached to the printer 351.

[0113] Printer 351 drives built-in head 361 and prints an image on rolled sticker paper 363 stored in sticker paper unit 352 based on print data supplied from PC section 301. Printer 351 also cuts sticker paper 363 with the printed image at a predetermined cutting position using cutter 362 and discharges it into a sticker outlet. As the printing medium, various media other than sticker paper on which photos can be printed can be used.

[0114] <Functional configuration of the control unit> 16 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the control unit that controls the overall operation of the photo sticker machine 1. Each functional block in FIG.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 16, the control unit 400 is realized by a pre-selection processing unit 401, a photography processing unit 402, an editing processing unit 403, a printing processing unit 404, and a transmission processing unit 405.

[0116] The pre-selection processing unit 401 performs pre-selection processing by controlling the individual units of the pre-selection unit 302. The pre-selection processing unit 401 supplies the shooting processing unit 402 with selection information indicating the content of the user's selection.

[0117] The shooting processing unit 402 performs shooting processing by controlling each unit of the shooting unit 304 based on the selection information from the pre-selection processing unit 401. The shooting processing unit 402 supplies the multiple shot images obtained by multiple shootings to the editing processing unit 403.

[0118] The editing processing unit 403 performs editing processing by controlling each unit of the editing unit 305. The editing processing unit 403 generates print data in which the edited image obtained by editing the captured image is arranged in a predetermined layout, and supplies the print data to the print processing unit 404. The editing processing unit 403 also supplies image data such as the captured image and the edited image to the transmission processing unit 405.

[0119] The print processing unit 404 performs print processing by controlling each unit of the printing unit 306. The print processing unit 404 inputs print data to the printer 351, thereby printing an edited image on sticker paper 363 and ejecting it from the sticker outlet.

[0120] The transmission processing unit 405 controls the communication unit 317 to transmit the image data to the image management server.

[0121] <<2. Shooting process>> Here, the operation of the photo sticker machine 1 having the above configuration will be described.

[0122] The photographing process of the photo sticker machine 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 17. The photographing process in Fig. 17 starts, for example, when a user who has paid money and started the game completes the pre-selection task in the pre-selection space B1 and enters the photographing space B2.

[0123] In step S1, the photographing processing unit 402 displays a guidance screen on the touch panel monitor 92, and guides the user to check their appearance using the mirror 87. In the photographing process, time is secured for checking their appearance.

[0124] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the guide screen.

[0125] 18, the guidance screen displays a message encouraging users to check their appearance using mirror 87. After seeing this guidance, users will bring their faces close to mirror 87 to fix their bangs or check the state of their makeup.

[0126] Also, the guidance screen displays a message informing the user that by touching the touch panel monitor 92, the appearance check will be completed and photography can begin.

[0127] A mirror 87 is provided in the photographing space B2, so that the user can check the state of their appearance immediately before the photographing without worrying about the eyes of those around them.

[0128] While the appearance is being checked, instructions on how to proceed with the photography may be presented, or advertisements may be displayed. Instructions on how to proceed with the photography may be presented using a display on the touch panel monitor 92 or audio output from the speaker 333 installed in the photography space B2.

[0129] A predetermined time, such as 30 seconds, is set as the time for checking the appearance. When the time limit for checking the appearance has elapsed, subsequent processing is initiated. Furthermore, when the user touches the touch panel monitor 92, the appearance check ends and subsequent processing is initiated. The photography processing unit 402 functions as a control unit that starts photography in response to an instruction from the user who has finished checking the appearance in preparation for photography.

[0130] During the grooming check, the photography processing unit 402 causes the fixed light sources, including the fixed light sources 84 provided on the left and right sides of the upper strobe unit 83, the fixed light source within the upper strobe unit 83, and the fixed light source within the box-type strobe unit 85, to emit light. The fixed light sources continue to emit light until the grooming check is completed. This ensures sufficient brightness for the grooming check.

[0131] Furthermore, before taking the first photograph, the photographing processing unit 402 stops the emission of at least the ambient light source 84. This makes it possible to prevent light from the ambient light source 84 located near the mirror 87 from being reflected by the mirror 87 and adversely affecting the appearance of the image.

[0132] 17, when the appearance check is completed, in step S2, the photography processing unit 402 displays a guidance screen on the touch panel monitor 92 to guide the subject as to where to stand during photography. A screen guiding the subject to stand at the position of the standing position mark 25A is displayed as the guidance screen.

[0133] In step S3, the photographing processing unit 402 controls the camera 91 to start capturing a live view image.

[0134] In step S4, the shooting processing unit 402 displays a live view screen including a live view image on the touch panel monitor 92. After a predetermined time has elapsed since the display of the live view screen began, shooting of a still image begins.

[0135] In step S5, the image capturing processing unit 402 captures a still image and generates a captured image by performing retouching, etc. The still image is captured multiple times, and multiple captured images are generated.

[0136] For example, when five still images have been captured, in step S6, the capture processing unit 402 guides the user to move to the editing space B3-1 or B3-2, for example, by using the display on the touch panel monitor 92. After that, the capture processing ends, and the editing processing unit 403, the printing processing unit 404, and the transmission processing unit 405 perform processing.

[0137] <Modification> ·When to check your appearance Although the time for checking appearance is set aside before capturing a still image, it may be set aside not only before capturing but also during capturing, in which case multiple times for checking appearance are set aside during one capture process.

[0138] For example, if five still images are taken, the guidance screen may be displayed again when the third image is taken, to guide the user to check their appearance. Also, if a moving image is taken following the still image capture in the capture process, the guidance screen may be displayed again when the still image capture is completed, to guide the user to check their appearance.

[0139] The user may be able to stop multiple consecutive shots and check their appearance while the shots are stopped. In this case, for example, a button to be operated to stop the shots is displayed on the live view screen.

[0140] Mirror installation example While mirror 87 is installed on the left side facing camera 91, it may also be installed on the right side, or on both the left and right sides. Mirror 87 is installed on at least one of the left and right sides facing camera 91. Similar to mirror 87, the mirror installed on the right side is also installed at an angle so that the mirror surface faces in a direction different from the direction of the user's standing position.

[0141] The embodiments of the present technology are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present technology.

[0142] For example, each step described in the above flowchart can be executed by one device, or can be shared and executed by multiple devices.

[0143] Furthermore, when one step includes multiple processes, the multiple processes included in that one step can be executed by one device or can be shared and executed by multiple devices. [Explanation of symbols]

[0144] 1 Photo sticker machine, 82 Camera unit, 83 Upper flash unit, 84 Constant light source, 87 Mirror, 91 Camera, 92 Touch panel monitor, 161 Tablet built-in monitor, 162 Touch pen, 400 Control unit, 401 Pre-selection processing unit, 402 Photography processing unit, 403 Editing processing unit, 404 Print processing unit, 405 Transmission processing unit

Claims

1. A photographing device having a photographing space in which a user is a subject and takes photographs, a camera installed in the photography space for photographing the user as a subject; a mirror installed on at least one of the left and right sides of the camera with respect to the standing position of the user; a display unit that displays a guidance screen including information guiding users to prepare for photography using the mirror; a control unit that starts capturing a still image by the camera after display of the guidance screen is completed; An imaging device comprising:

2. The mirror is installed with the mirror surface facing obliquely. The imaging device according to claim 1 .

3. The camera further includes a light emitting unit that irradiates the photographing space with constant light during preparation for photographing.

3. The imaging device according to claim 1.

4. The light emitting unit stops emitting light before the camera starts capturing a first still image. The imaging device according to claim 3 .

5. A photography space is provided in which users can take photographs as subjects, a camera installed in the photography space for photographing the user as a subject; a strobe device that emits light in synchronization with the timing of photographing by the camera; a mirror installed on at least one of the left and right sides of the camera with respect to the standing position of the user; Display and An imaging device comprising: displaying a guidance screen on the display unit, the guidance screen including information for guiding the user to prepare for photography using the mirror; The camera starts taking a still image after the display of the guide screen is finished. Control method.

6. A photography space is provided in which users can take photographs as subjects, a camera installed in the photography space for photographing the user as a subject; a mirror installed on at least one of the left and right sides of the camera with respect to the standing position of the user; Display and A computer that controls an imaging device including: displaying a guidance screen on the display unit, the guidance screen including information for guiding the user to prepare for photography using the mirror; The camera starts taking a still image after the display of the guide screen is finished. A program for executing a process.

Images