Imaging device, control method, and program

Abstract

This technology provides a way to switch to video recording mode in response to a half-press operation of the control element while shooting in still image mode. [Solution] The present invention provides an imaging device comprising: a first operating member having a non-pressed state, a half-pressed state, and a fully-pressed state; a storage unit that stores setting values ​​for still image shooting and setting values ​​for video shooting, respectively; and a control means that controls the display means to switch to displaying an image shot using the video setting value when the first operating member transitions from the non-pressed state to the half-pressed state while an image shot using the still image setting value is being displayed on the display means, and to start recording a video shot using the video setting value when the first operating member transitions to the fully-pressed state.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] There is known a digital camera that starts video shooting when a video shooting start button is pressed while the camera is set to the still image shooting mode.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which peak display is performed by pressing the shutter button halfway during video shooting, and then still image shooting is performed by pressing the shutter button fully.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Conventionally, there has been no known technique for switching to the video shooting mode in response to a half-press operation of an operation member during shooting in the still image mode.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and an object thereof is to provide a technique for switching to the video shooting mode in response to a half-press operation of an operation member during shooting in the still image mode.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides an imaging device, a first operation member having a non-pressed state, a half-pressed state, and a fully-pressed state, a storage unit that stores setting values for still image shooting settings and setting values for video shooting settings, respectively, While an image captured using the setting value for still images is being displayed on the display means, in response to the first operating member transitioning from the unpressed state to the half-pressed state, the display means switches to displaying an image captured using the setting value for video. In response to the first operating member transitioning to the fully pressed state, recording of the video captured using the video setting value is started. A control means that controls in this manner, The present invention provides an imaging device characterized by comprising the following features. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to switch to video recording mode in response to a half-press operation of the operating element while shooting in still image mode.

[0009] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the accompanying drawings and the description of the embodiments for carrying out the invention below. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] A diagram showing the external appearance of camera 100 (imaging device). [Figure 2] A block diagram showing an example configuration of a camera 100 and an interchangeable lens unit 150. [Figure 3] A flowchart of the processes that camera 100 performs in response to the operation of the AF-ON button 83 when camera 100 is set to still image shooting mode. [Figure 4] A diagram illustrating a specific example of the S304 process. [Figure 5] A flowchart illustrating the process of assigning the function of the AF-ON button 83, used for still image shooting mode, to start video recording. [Figure 6] A flowchart illustrating an example of what happens when the AE lock button 77 (third operating component) is operated, while the camera 100 does not accept other button operations while the first AF switch 84 is pressed. [Figure 7]A flowchart of the processes that camera 100 performs in response to the operation of the AF-ON button 83 when camera 100 is set to video recording mode. [Figure 8] A diagram illustrating a specific example of the S703 process. [Figure 9] A diagram showing the display unit 28 after video recording has started. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention as defined in the claims. While the embodiments describe multiple features, not all of these features are essential to the invention, and the features may be combined in any way. Furthermore, in the attached drawings, identical or similar configurations are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0012] Figure 1 shows the external appearance of the camera 100 (imaging device). The mode selector switch 60 is an operating component for switching between various modes. The main electronic dial 71 is a rotary operating component. By rotating the main electronic dial 71, the user can change settings such as shutter speed and aperture. The power switch 72 is an operating component for switching the power of the camera 100 ON and OFF.

[0013] The sub-electronic dial 73 is a rotary operating component. By rotating the sub-electronic dial 73, the user can move the selection frame (cursor), advance images, etc. The four-way key 74 is configured so that the up, down, left, and right sections can each be pressed. The camera 100 performs processing according to the pressed section of the four-way key 74.

[0014] The SET button 75 is a push button and is mainly used to confirm selections. The video button 76 is used to start and stop video recording. The AE lock button 77 is a push button. The user can lock the exposure state by pressing the AE lock button 77 while in shooting standby mode.

[0015] The zoom button 78 is an operation button for switching between ON and OFF of the zoom mode in the live view display (LV display) of the shooting mode. After turning on the zoom mode, by operating the main electronic dial 71, the live view image (LV image) can be enlarged or reduced. In the playback mode, the zoom button 78 functions as an operation button for enlarging the playback image or increasing its magnification rate.

[0016] The playback button 79 is an operation button for switching between the shooting mode and the playback mode. The user can press the playback button 79 during the shooting mode to shift the camera 100 to the playback mode and display the latest image among the images recorded on the recording medium 185 on the display unit 28.

[0017] The menu button 81 is a push button used to perform an instruction operation to display the menu screen. When the menu button 81 is pressed, a menu screen enabling various settings is displayed on the display unit 28. The user can intuitively perform various settings using the menu screen displayed on the display unit 28, the four-way key 74, and the SET button 75.

[0018] The INFO button 82 is a push button used to switch the information displayed on the display unit 28. When the INFO button 82 is pressed, the information displayed on the display unit 28 is switched.

[0019] The AF-ON button 83 is a push button with a two-stage mechanism. Functions can be assigned respectively for the half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button 83. For example, when photometry / AF start is assigned for the half-press and pupil AF is assigned for the full-press, the user can perform photometry / AF processing on the subject by half-pressing the AF-ON button 83 in the shooting standby state, and then re-perform photometry / AF processing on the subject with the detected pupil by fully pressing the AF-ON button 83.

[0020] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the camera 100 and the interchangeable lens unit 150. While the lens 103 is typically composed of multiple lenses, Figure 2 simplifies it to show only one lens. Communication terminal 6 is a communication terminal for the lens unit 150 to communicate with the camera 100, and communication terminal 10 is a communication terminal for the camera 100 to communicate with the lens unit 150. The lens unit 150 communicates with the system control unit 50 via these communication terminals 6 and 10. The lens system control circuit 4 inside the lens unit 150 controls the aperture 1 via the aperture drive circuit 2. The lens system control circuit 4 also focuses by changing the position of the lens 103 via the AF drive circuit 3.

[0021] The shutter 101 is a focal-plane shutter that can freely control the exposure time of the imaging unit 22 according to the control of the system control unit 50. The imaging unit 22 is an image sensor composed of a CCD or CMOS element that converts an optical image into an electrical signal. The imaging unit 22 may have an image plane phase difference sensor that outputs defocus amount information to the system control unit 50. The A / D converter 23 converts the analog signal output from the imaging unit 22 into a digital signal.

[0022] The image processing unit 24 performs predetermined processing (such as resizing, pixel interpolation, and color conversion) on the data from the A / D converter 23 or the data from the memory control unit 15. The image processing unit 24 also performs predetermined calculations using the captured image data, and the system control unit 50 performs exposure control and distance measurement control based on the calculation results obtained by the image processing unit 24. This enables through-the-lens (TTL) autofocus (AF), automatic exposure (AE), and flash pre-flash (EF) processing. The image processing unit 24 further performs predetermined calculations using the captured image data and performs TTL auto white balance (AWB) processing based on the obtained calculation results.

[0023] The output data from the A / D converter 23 is written to the memory 32 via the image processing unit 24 and the memory control unit 15. Alternatively, the output data from the A / D converter 23 is written to the memory 32 via the memory control unit 15 without going through the image processing unit 24. The memory 32 stores image data obtained by the imaging unit 22 and converted into digital data by the A / D converter 23, as well as image data for display on the display unit 28 and the electronic viewfinder (EVF 29). The memory 32 has sufficient storage capacity to store a predetermined number of still images, a predetermined amount of video footage, and audio.

[0024] Furthermore, memory 32 also serves as memory for image display (video memory). The D / A converter 19 converts the image display data stored in memory 32 into an analog signal and supplies it to the display unit 28 and EVF 29. In this way, the display image data written to memory 32 is displayed by the display unit 28 and EVF 29 via the D / A converter 19. The display unit 28 and EVF 29 are displays such as LCDs and OLEDs, respectively, and display according to the analog signal from the D / A converter 19. The digital signal that has been A / D converted by the A / D converter 23 and stored in memory 32 is converted into an analog signal by the D / A converter 19 and sequentially transferred to the display unit 28 or EVF 29 for display, thereby enabling live view display (LV). Hereinafter, the image displayed in live view display will be referred to as a live view image (LV image). The user can view the image displayed on the EVF 29 through the eyepiece 16.

[0025] The system control unit 50 is a control unit consisting of at least one processor and / or at least one circuit, and controls the entire camera 100. The system control unit 50 implements each of the processes of this embodiment, which will be described later, by executing a program recorded in the non-volatile memory 56. The system control unit 50 also performs display control by controlling the memory 32, D / A converter 19, display unit 28, EVF 29, etc.

[0026] System memory 52 is, for example, RAM. The system control unit 50 loads constants and variables for the operation of the system control unit 50, as well as programs read from non-volatile memory 56, into system memory 52.

[0027] The non-volatile memory 56 is an electrically erasable and recordable memory, such as an EEPROM. The non-volatile memory 56 stores constants for the operation of the system control unit 50, programs, information on the arrangement of operating members, and the like. The program referred to here is a program for executing various flowcharts described later in this embodiment.

[0028] The system timer 53 is a timekeeping unit that measures the time used for various controls and the time of the built-in clock.

[0029] The communication unit 54 transmits and receives various data such as video signals, audio signals, and commands to and from external devices connected to the camera 100 via wireless or wired cable. The communication unit 54 can also connect to a wireless Local Area Network (LAN) or the Internet. Furthermore, the communication unit 54 can communicate with external devices via Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy. The communication unit 54 can transmit images (including LV images) captured by the imaging unit 22 and images recorded on the recording medium 185, and can receive image data and other various information from external devices.

[0030] The attitude detection unit 55 detects the attitude of the camera 100 relative to the direction of gravity. Based on the attitude detected by the attitude detection unit 55, the system control unit 50 can determine whether the image captured by the imaging unit 22 was taken with the camera 100 held horizontally or vertically. The system control unit 50 can add orientation information corresponding to the attitude detected by the attitude detection unit 55 to the image file of the image captured by the imaging unit 22, or rotate the image before recording. An acceleration sensor or gyro sensor can be used as the attitude detection unit 55. It is also possible to detect the movement of the camera 100 (pan, tilt, lift, whether it is stationary or not, etc.) using the acceleration sensor or gyro sensor in the attitude detection unit 55.

[0031] The external viewfinder display unit 43 displays various settings of the camera 100, including shutter speed and aperture, via the external viewfinder display unit drive circuit 44.

[0032] The power control unit 80 consists of a battery detection circuit, a DC-DC converter, a switch circuit for switching which blocks are energized, and detects whether a battery is installed, the type of battery, and the remaining battery level. The power control unit 80 also controls the DC-DC converter based on the detection results and instructions from the system control unit 50, supplying the necessary voltage to each part, including the recording medium 185, for the required period. The power supply unit 30 consists of primary batteries such as alkaline batteries and lithium batteries, secondary batteries such as NiCd batteries, NiMH batteries, and Li batteries, and an AC adapter.

[0033] The recording medium I / F18 is an interface to a recording medium 185 such as a memory card or hard disk. The recording medium 185 is a recording medium such as a memory card for recording captured images, and is composed of semiconductor memory or a magnetic disk.

[0034] The operation unit 70 is an input unit that receives user operations and consists of multiple operating members used to input various operation instructions to the system control unit 50. As shown in Figure 2, the operation unit 70 includes a shutter button 61, an AF-ON button 83, a mode switch 60, a power switch 72, a touch panel 70a, and other operating members 70b. Other operating members 70b include a main electronic dial 71, a sub electronic dial 73, a four-way key 74, a SET button 75, a video button 76, an AE lock button 77, a zoom button 78, a playback button 79, a menu button 81, and the like.

[0035] The shutter button 61 (second operating member) includes a first shutter switch 62 and a second shutter switch 64. The first shutter switch 62 turns ON during the operation of the shutter button 61, so-called half-press (instruction to prepare for shooting), and generates a first shutter switch signal SW1. In response to the first shutter switch signal SW1, the system control unit 50 starts shooting preparation operations (shooting preparation processing) such as autofocus (AF) processing, automatic exposure (AE) processing, automatic white balance (AWB) processing, and flash pre-flash (EF) processing.

[0036] The second shutter switch 64 turns ON when the shutter button 61 is fully pressed (shooting instruction), generating the second shutter switch signal SW2. In response to the second shutter switch signal SW2, the system control unit 50 starts a series of shooting operations, from reading the signal from the imaging unit 22 to writing the captured image as an image file to the recording medium 185. In still image shooting mode, the system control unit 50 performs the above operations in response to the first shutter switch signal SW1 and the second shutter switch signal SW2. That is, in the first setting state described later, the system control unit 50 performs a shooting preparation operation in response to receiving the first shutter switch signal SW1. Then, in response to receiving the second shutter switch signal SW2, the system control unit 50 records a still image taken with the settings for still images. However, in video shooting mode, different operations may be performed in response to the operation of the shutter button 61. For example, in video recording mode, that is, in the second setting state described later, video recording may be started in response to the second shutter switch signal SW2, and video recording may be stopped again in response to the reception of the second shutter switch signal SW2 during video recording.

[0037] The AF-ON button 83 is equipped with a first AF switch 84 and a second AF switch 85. The first AF switch 84 turns ON when the AF-ON button 83 is partially pressed, generating the first AF switch signal AF1. The second AF switch 85 turns ON when the AF-ON button 83 is fully pressed, generating the second AF switch signal AF2. The AF-ON button 83 can be assigned a function selected by the user.

[0038] The mode switch 60 switches the operating mode of the camera 100 (system control unit 50) to one of the following: still image shooting mode, video shooting mode, playback mode, etc. Modes included in the still image shooting mode include auto shooting mode, auto scene detection mode, manual mode, aperture priority mode (Av mode), shutter speed priority mode (Tv mode), program AE mode (P mode), etc. There are also various scene modes and custom modes that provide shooting settings for different shooting scenes. The user can switch directly to any of these modes using the mode switch 60. Alternatively, the user may display a list of shooting modes on the display unit 28 using the mode switch 60, and then selectively switch to one of the displayed modes using another operating element. Similarly, the video shooting mode may also include multiple modes.

[0039] The touch panel 70a is a touch sensor that detects various touch operations on the display surface of the display unit 28 (the operating surface of the touch panel 70a). The touch panel 70a and the display unit 28 can be configured as an integrated unit. For example, the touch panel 70a is configured such that its light transmittance does not interfere with the display of the display unit 28, and is mounted on the upper layer of the display surface of the display unit 28. Then, the input coordinates on the touch panel 70a are associated with the display coordinates on the display surface of the display unit 28. This makes it possible to provide a graphical user interface (GUI) that makes it seem as if the user can directly operate the screen displayed on the display unit 28.

[0040] Here, we will explain the shooting parameters used by camera 100 during shooting. The non-volatile memory 56 stores the setting values ​​for still images and the setting values ​​for video for each of the one or more shooting parameters (one or more setting items of the shooting settings). Examples of one or more shooting parameters include white balance, ISO sensitivity, aspect ratio, and AF frame. The system memory 52 stores the current setting value (the value set to be used during shooting) for each shooting parameter.

[0041] When the operating mode of the camera 100 is set to still image shooting mode by user operation of the mode switching switch 60, the system control unit 50 reads the still image setting values ​​for each shooting parameter from the non-volatile memory 56 and stores them in the system memory 52. ​​As a result, a still image setting value is set for each of the one or more shooting parameters, and a live view image captured with the still image setting values ​​is displayed on the display unit 28 (first setting state).

[0042] When the operating mode of the camera 100 is set to video recording mode by user operation of the mode switching switch 60, the system control unit 50 reads the video setting values ​​for each shooting parameter from the non-volatile memory 56 and stores them in the system memory 52. ​​As a result, a video setting value is set for each of one or more shooting parameters, and a live view image captured with the video setting values ​​is displayed on the display unit 28 (second setting state).

[0043] Furthermore, the user can change the settings of the shooting parameters stored in the non-volatile memory 56. The method of change is not particularly limited. For example, when the camera 100's operating mode is still image shooting mode or video shooting mode, the user can change the settings for the type of image (still image or video) corresponding to the current shooting mode by operating the control unit 70. For example, consider the case where "Auto" is stored as the white balance setting for still images in the non-volatile memory 56. In this case, when the camera 100's operating mode is set to video shooting mode, "Auto" is stored in the system memory 52 as the current white balance setting. In this state, the user can change the current white balance setting from "Auto" to "Sunlight" by operating the sub-electronic dial 73. At this time, the white balance setting for still images stored in the non-volatile memory 56 is also changed from "Auto" to "Sunlight".

[0044] (Processing related to the operation of the AF-ON button 83 in still image shooting mode) Figure 3 is a flowchart of the processes that the camera 100 executes in response to the operation of the AF-ON button 83 when the camera is set to still image shooting mode. Unless otherwise specified, each step in this flowchart is performed by the system control unit 50 loading the program recorded in the non-volatile memory 56 into the system memory 52 and executing it. In this flowchart, it is assumed that the function of the AF-ON button 83 for still image shooting mode is assigned to start video recording.

[0045] The processing in this flowchart begins when the operating mode of camera 100 is set to still image shooting mode. Therefore, the shooting parameter settings at the start of the processing in this flowchart are in the first setting state (a state in which a still image setting value is set for each of one or more shooting parameters, and a live view image captured with the still image setting value is displayed on the display unit 28).

[0046] In S301, the system control unit 50 determines whether the first AF switch 84 is pressed (i.e., whether the AF-ON button 83 is half-pressed). The system control unit 50 repeats the determination in S301 until the first AF switch 84 is pressed. Once the first AF switch 84 is pressed, the process proceeds to S302.

[0047] In S302, the system control unit 50 determines whether the camera 100 is recording video. If it is recording video, the process proceeds to S305; otherwise, the process proceeds to S303.

[0048] In S303, the system control unit 50 reads the video setting values ​​for each shooting parameter from the non-volatile memory 56 and stores them in the system memory 52. ​​As a result, the setting state of the shooting parameters becomes the second setting state (a state in which a video setting value is set for each of one or more shooting parameters, and a live view image shot with the video setting values ​​is displayed on the display unit 28). In other words, the system control unit 50 performs setting control to control the transition of one or more shooting parameter settings from the first setting state to the second setting state.

[0049] In S304, the system control unit 50 determines whether the setting value (second setting value) corresponding to the current second setting state for a predetermined shooting parameter (predetermined setting item) is the same as the setting value (first setting value) corresponding to the first setting state before processing in S303. If the second setting value is different from the first setting value, the system control unit 50 displays the second setting value in the first display mode. If the second setting value is the same as the first setting value, the system control unit 50 either displays the second setting value in a second display mode different from the first display mode, or refrains from displaying the second setting value. Note that the predetermined shooting parameter described here is not limited to one, and the system control unit 50 may perform similar processing for each of two or more shooting parameters.

[0050] Here, with reference to Figure 4, a specific example of the processing in S304 will be explained. Here, the predetermined shooting parameter is assumed to be white balance. Figure 4(a) shows the display unit 28 before processing in S303, and the display unit 28 shows a live view image in still image shooting mode (angle of view (aspect ratio) is 3:2). That is, in Figure 4(a), a live view image taken using the settings for still images is being displayed. At this time, the white balance is assumed to be "auto". Figure 4(b) shows the display unit 28 after processing in S304, and a live view image for video shooting (angle of view (aspect ratio) is 16:9) is being displayed. At this time, the white balance is assumed to be "daylight".

[0051] In Figure 4(b), 401 represents a black bar, indicating that this area is not recorded during video recording. 402 is an icon representing the white balance setting, indicating that the white balance is set to sunlight. In this example, the current white balance setting (second setting) is different from the setting before processing in S303 (first setting). Therefore, in S304, the current white balance setting is displayed in the manner indicated by reference numeral 402 in Figure 4(b) (first display mode).

[0052] Here, we consider the case where both the white balance for still images and the white balance for video are set to "daylight." In this case, in S304, the current white balance setting is displayed in the manner indicated by reference numeral 403 in Figure 4(c) (a second display manner different from the first display manner). Alternatively, the system control unit 50 may refrain from displaying the current white balance setting.

[0053] In the examples in Figures 4(b) and 4(c), the display size (size of the mark in icon 402) of the white balance setting value (second setting value) in the first display mode is larger than the display size (size of the mark in icon 403) of the white balance setting value in the second display mode. Also, in the first display mode, the background of icon 402 is emphasized with diagonal lines, whereas in the second display mode, the background of icon 403 does not include diagonal lines.

[0054] As described above, in this embodiment, the white balance setting (in the examples of Figures 4(b) and 4(c), "daylight") is displayed in different ways depending on whether or not the white balance setting has changed in response to the transition of the AF-ON button 83 from an unoperated state to a half-pressed state. Alternatively, if the white balance setting has not changed in response to the transition of the AF-ON button 83 from an unoperated state to a half-pressed state, the setting is not displayed. Therefore, the user can easily recognize whether or not the white balance setting has changed in response to the transition of the AF-ON button 83 from an unoperated state to a half-pressed state.

[0055] Similarly, if a predetermined shooting parameter is an aspect ratio, the system control unit 50 may display the setting value in a different display manner depending on whether or not the aspect ratio setting value has changed in response to the AF-ON button 83 transitioning from an unoperated state to a half-pressed state. For example, the system control unit 50 may display an icon containing the text "16:9" in a different display manner depending on whether or not the aspect ratio setting value has changed in response to the AF-ON button 83 transitioning from an unoperated state to a half-pressed state. Alternatively, if the aspect ratio setting value has not changed in response to the AF-ON button 83 transitioning from an unoperated state to a half-pressed state, the system control unit 50 may refrain from displaying the setting value.

[0056] In the example shown in Figure 4(a), the white balance setting is not displayed before the AF-ON button 83 transitions from an unoperated state to a half-pressed state. However, the system control unit 50 may display the white balance setting when the live view display shown in Figure 4(a) is active. The manner in which the white balance setting is displayed at this time is not particularly limited.

[0057] Different shooting parameters may be used for still image shooting and video shooting. However, with conventional technology, it was not easy for the user to recognize whether the shooting parameters would change when shooting a type of image different from the type of image corresponding to the current shooting mode (for example, when starting video shooting while set to still image shooting mode).

[0058] In contrast, this embodiment makes it possible to help the user recognize whether or not the setting value of a predetermined shooting parameter (setting item) changes when taking an image of a different type than the image of the current shooting mode.

[0059] In S305, the system control unit 50 determines whether the first AF switch 84 is released or not. If the first AF switch 84 is released, the process proceeds to S311; otherwise, the process proceeds to S306.

[0060] In S306, the system control unit 50 determines whether the second AF switch 85 is pressed (i.e., whether the AF-ON button 83 is fully pressed). If the second AF switch 85 is pressed, the process proceeds to S307; otherwise, the process returns to S305.

[0061] In S307, the system control unit 50 determines whether the camera 100 is recording video. If it is recording video, the process proceeds to S310; otherwise, the process proceeds to S308.

[0062] In S308, the system control unit 50 determines whether a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) has elapsed since the first AF switch 84 was pressed. If the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to S309; ​​otherwise, the process returns to S306.

[0063] In S309, the system control unit 50 starts video recording. Figure 9 shows the display unit 28 after video recording has started. Because S308 precedes S309, if the AF-ON button 83 transitions from a half-pressed state to a fully pressed state before the half-pressed state of the AF-ON button 83 continues for a predetermined time, the system control unit 50 refrains from recording video in the second setting state for video. Therefore, the user can check the screen in Figure 4(b) or Figure 4(c) for at least a predetermined time before video recording starts. Thus, the process in S308 improves the likelihood that the user will recognize whether or not the setting value of a predetermined shooting parameter (e.g., white balance) has changed.

[0064] In S310a, the system control unit 50 stops video recording. S310a is a process that is performed when video recording has started in S309 and is currently in progress. In other words, after the AF-ON button 83 has been fully pressed to start video recording, if the AF-ON button 83 is fully pressed again, the process of stopping video recording in S310a is executed.

[0065] In S310b, the system control unit 50 reads the still image setting values ​​for each shooting parameter from the non-volatile memory 56 and stores them in the system memory 52. ​​As a result, the shooting parameter settings become the first setting state (a still image setting value is set for each of one or more shooting parameters, and a live view image captured with the still image setting value is displayed on the display unit 28).

[0066] In S311, the system control unit 50 determines whether the camera 100 is recording video. If it is recording video, the process returns to S301; otherwise, the process proceeds to S312.

[0067] The processing in S312 is the same as the processing in S310b.

[0068] In S313, the system control unit 50 returns the display on the display unit 28 to the state it was in before processing in S304. At this time, the display on the display unit 28 transitions from the display in Figure 4(b) to the display in Figure 4(a).

[0069] Figure 5 is a flowchart of the process of assigning the function of the AF-ON button 83 for still image shooting mode to start video recording. Unless otherwise specified, each step of this flowchart is performed by the system control unit 50 loading the program recorded in the non-volatile memory 56 into the system memory 52 and executing it.

[0070] In S501, the system control unit 50 performs a customization process for the function of the second AF switch 85 for still image shooting mode, in accordance with user instructions via the operation unit 70.

[0071] In S502, the system control unit 50 determines whether the function of the second AF switch 85, which was customized in S501, is the function to start video recording. If the function of the second AF switch 85 is the function to start video recording, the process proceeds to S503; otherwise, the process in this flowchart ends.

[0072] In S503, the system control unit 50 assigns the function of switching to video shooting mode to the function of the first AF switch 84 for still image shooting mode. Furthermore, in this embodiment, in S503, the function of switching to still image shooting mode is assigned to the function of the first AF switch 84 for video shooting mode, and the function of still image shooting is automatically assigned to the function of the second AF switch 85 for video shooting mode. At this time, it is advisable to notify the user that the function of still image shooting has been assigned to the function of the AF-ON button 83 for video shooting.

[0073] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of processing when the AE lock button 77 (third operating member) is operated, in a case where the camera 100 does not accept other button operations while the first AF switch 84 is pressed. Unless otherwise specified, the processing of each step in this flowchart is achieved by the system control unit 50 loading the program recorded in the non-volatile memory 56 into the system memory 52 and executing it.

[0074] In S601, the system control unit 50 determines whether the AE lock button 77 is pressed or not. The system control unit 50 repeats the determination in S601 until the AE lock button 77 is pressed. When the AE lock button 77 is pressed, the process proceeds to S602.

[0075] In S602, the system control unit 50 determines whether the first AF switch 84 is pressed (i.e., whether the AF-ON button 83 is half-pressed). If the first AF switch 84 is pressed, the process in this flowchart ends; if the first AF switch 84 is not pressed, the process proceeds to S603.

[0076] In S603, the system control unit 50 performs AE lock processing (a predetermined process).

[0077] As described above, according to this embodiment, the camera 100 is equipped with an AF-ON button 83 (first operating member) that has a non-pressed state, a half-pressed state, and a fully pressed state. The camera 100 is also equipped with a non-volatile memory 56 (storage unit) that stores setting values ​​for still images and setting values ​​for video for each of one or more shooting parameters (one or more setting items of the shooting settings). In still image shooting mode, the camera 100 is in a first setting state in which the setting value for still images is set, and in this state, when the AF-ON button 83 transitions from the non-pressed state to the half-pressed state, the camera controls it to transition to a second setting state in which the setting value for video is set. While the AF-ON button 83 is in the half-pressed state, if the second setting value (e.g., "daylight") corresponding to the second setting state differs from the first setting value (e.g., "auto") corresponding to the first setting state for a predetermined setting item (e.g., white balance), the camera 100 displays the second setting value in the first display mode. Furthermore, while the AF-ON button 83 is half-pressed, if the second setting value (e.g., "Sunlight") is the same as the first setting value (e.g., "Sunlight"), the camera 100 controls itself to either display the second setting value in a second display mode different from the first display mode, or to refrain from displaying the second setting value. The camera 100 then records a video in the second setting state in response to the transition of the AF-ON button 83 from half-pressed to fully pressed.

[0078] Thus, in still image shooting mode, the setting value is displayed in a different way depending on whether or not the setting value of a predetermined shooting parameter has changed in response to the transition of the AF-ON button 83 from an unoperated state to a half-pressed state. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the shooting mode can be temporarily changed by operating the AF-ON button 83. Furthermore, it is possible to help the user recognize whether or not the setting value of a predetermined shooting parameter (setting item) has changed when shooting an image of a different type than the image of the current shooting mode.

[0079] (Processing related to the operation of the AF-ON button 83 in video recording mode) In the camera 100 of this embodiment, video recording was performed by operating the AF-ON button 83 in still image shooting mode, but still image shooting is performed by operating the AF-ON button 83 in video shooting mode.

[0080] In the camera 100 of this embodiment, if the function of the AF-ON button 83 for still image shooting mode is assigned to start video recording, the function of the AF-ON button 83 for video recording will be automatically assigned to still image shooting.

[0081] Figure 7 is a flowchart of the processes that the camera 100 executes when the AF-ON button 83 for still image shooting mode is assigned the function of starting video recording. Unless otherwise specified, each step in this flowchart is performed by the system control unit 50 loading the program recorded in the non-volatile memory 56 into the system memory 52 and executing it. As described above, in this flowchart, still image shooting is assigned the function of the AF-ON button 83 for video recording mode.

[0082] The processing in this flowchart begins when the operating mode of camera 100 is set to video recording mode. Therefore, the shooting parameter settings at the start of the processing in this flowchart are in the second setting state (a state in which video settings are set for each of one or more shooting parameters, and a live view image captured with video settings is displayed on the display unit 28).

[0083] In S701, the system control unit 50 determines whether the first AF switch 84 is pressed (i.e., whether the AF-ON button 83 is half-pressed). The system control unit 50 repeats the determination in S701 until the first AF switch 84 is pressed. Once the first AF switch 84 is pressed, the process proceeds to S702.

[0084] In S702, the system control unit 50 reads the still image setting values ​​for each shooting parameter from the non-volatile memory 56 and stores them in the system memory 52. ​​As a result, the setting state of the shooting parameters becomes the first setting state (a still image setting value is set for each of one or more shooting parameters, and a live view image captured with the still image setting value is displayed on the display unit 28). In other words, the system control unit 50 performs setting control to control the transition of one or more shooting parameter settings from the second setting state to the first setting state.

[0085] The process in S703 is the same as the process in S304.

[0086] Here, we will explain a specific example of the processing of S703 with reference to Figure 8. Here, the predetermined shooting parameters are assumed to include ISO sensitivity and AF frame. Figure 8(a) is a diagram showing the display unit 28 before processing by S702, displaying a live view image in video shooting mode (angle of view (aspect ratio) is 16:9). Figure 8(b) is a diagram showing the display unit 28 after processing by S703, displaying a live view image for still image shooting (angle of view (aspect ratio) is 3:2). Here, we assume that the ISO sensitivity setting has been changed from "Auto" to "100" and the AF frame setting has been changed from "Zone" to "Single Point" by processing by S702. 801 is an icon representing the ISO sensitivity setting, indicating that "100" is set as the ISO sensitivity. 802 is a frame representing the AF frame setting, indicating a single-point AF frame.

[0087] Here, consider the case where both the ISO sensitivity for video and the ISO sensitivity for still images are set to "100", and both the AF frame for video and the AF frame for still images are set to "one point". In this case, as shown by reference numerals 803 and 804 in Figure 8(c), the current settings for the ISO sensitivity and AF frame are displayed in a different manner than in Figure 8(b). Alternatively, the system control unit 50 may refrain from displaying the current settings for one or both of the ISO sensitivity and AF frame.

[0088] In S704, the system control unit 50 determines whether the first AF switch 84 is released or not. If the first AF switch 84 is released, the process proceeds to S709; otherwise, the process proceeds to S705.

[0089] In S705, the system control unit 50 determines whether the second AF switch 85 is pressed (i.e., whether the AF-ON button 83 is fully pressed). If the second AF switch 85 is pressed, the process proceeds to S706; otherwise, the process returns to S704.

[0090] In S706, the system control unit 50 determines whether a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) has elapsed since the first AF switch 84 was pressed. If the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to S707; otherwise, the process returns to S705.

[0091] In S707, the system control unit 50 starts photometering and autofocus.

[0092] In S708, the system control unit 50 performs still image capture processing. After that, the process returns to S704.

[0093] In S709, the system control unit 50 reads the video setting values ​​for each shooting parameter from the non-volatile memory 56 and stores them in the system memory 52. ​​As a result, the shooting parameter settings become the second setting state (a video setting value is set for each of one or more shooting parameters, and a live view image captured with the video setting value is displayed on the display unit 28).

[0094] In S710, the system control unit 50 returns the display on the display unit 28 to the state it was in before processing in S703. At this time, the display on the display unit 28 transitions from the display in Figure 8(b) to the display in Figure 8(a).

[0095] As described above, according to this embodiment, the camera 100 is equipped with an AF-ON button 83 (first operating member) that has a non-pressed state, a half-pressed state, and a fully pressed state. The camera 100 is also equipped with a non-volatile memory 56 (storage unit) that stores setting values ​​for still images and setting values ​​for video for each of one or more shooting parameters (one or more setting items of the shooting settings). When the function of the AF-ON button 83 for still image shooting mode is assigned to start video recording, the function of the AF-ON button 83 for video recording is automatically assigned to start still image recording. Therefore, in video recording mode, the camera 100 is controlled to transition to a first setting state in which a setting value for still images is set, in response to the transition of the AF-ON button 83 from a non-pressed state to a half-pressed state in a second setting state in which a setting value for video is set. While the AF-ON button 83 is half-pressed, if the first setting value (e.g., "100") corresponding to the first setting state differs from the second setting value (e.g., "Auto") for a predetermined setting item (e.g., ISO sensitivity) among the setting items, the camera 100 displays the first setting value in the first display mode. Also, while the AF-ON button 83 is half-pressed, if the first setting value (e.g., "100") is the same as the second setting value (e.g., "100"), the camera 100 controls itself to either display the first setting value in a second display mode different from the first display mode, or to refrain from displaying the second setting value. When the AF-ON button 83 transitions from half-pressed to fully pressed, the camera 100 takes a still image in the first setting state.

[0096] Therefore, even in video recording mode, the shooting mode can be temporarily changed by operating the AF-ON button 83, just as in still image shooting mode. This also helps the user recognize whether the settings of predetermined shooting parameters (setting items) change when shooting an image of a different type than the type corresponding to the shooting mode.

[0097] [Other embodiments] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0098] [summary] The embodiments described above disclose, but are not limited to, the inventions shown in at least the following items. (Item 1) An imaging device, A first operating member having a non-pressed state, a half-pressed state, and a fully pressed state, A memory unit that stores the shooting settings for still images and the shooting settings for video, While an image captured using the setting value for still images is being displayed on the display means, in response to the first operating member transitioning from the unpressed state to the half-pressed state, the display means switches to displaying an image captured using the setting value for video. In response to the first operating member transitioning to the fully pressed state, recording of the video captured using the video setting value is started. A control means that controls in this manner, An imaging device characterized by comprising: (Item 2) Further comprising a second operating member, The control means controls the recording of a still image taken using the still image setting value when the second operating member is operated while the image taken using the still image setting value is displayed on the display means. The imaging device described in item 1, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 3) The second operating member is a shutter button having a non-pressed state, a half-pressed state, and a fully pressed state. The control means controls the display means to execute a shooting preparation process when the second operating member is in the half-pressed state while an image captured using the still image setting value is displayed on the display means, and to record the still image captured using the still image setting value when the second operating member is in the fully pressed state. The imaging device described in item 2, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 4) The control means, in response to the first operating member transitioning to the fully pressed state, displays an image captured using the video setting value on the display means and starts recording the video captured using the video setting value. After starting the video recording, in response to the first operating member transitioning to the fully pressed state again, it stops recording the video and displays an image captured using the still image setting value on the display means. An imaging device according to any one of items 1 to 3, characterized in that it is an imaging device. (Item 5) The system has a switching means that, in response to a mode switching operation, switches the operating mode of the imaging device from a plurality of modes, including still image shooting mode and video shooting mode. Even in the still image shooting mode, the control means displays an image captured using the video setting value on the display means when the first operating member is in the half-pressed state, and starts recording a video captured using the video setting value when the first operating member transitions to the fully pressed state. An imaging device according to any one of items 1 to 4, characterized in that it is an imaging device. (Item 6) The control means, while displaying an image captured using the video setting on the display means, switches to displaying an image captured using the still image setting on the display means in response to the first operating member transitioning from the unpressed state to the half-pressed state, and then controls the first operating member to execute a shooting preparation process using the still image setting in response to the first operating member transitioning to the fully pressed state. An imaging device according to any one of items 1 to 5, characterized in that it is an imaging device. (Item 7) While an image captured using the setting value for still images is displayed on the display means, the control means responds to the transition of the first operating member from the unpressed state to the half-pressed state by: If the setting value for the video differs from the setting value for the still image, the setting value for the video is displayed in the first display mode. If the setting value for video is the same as the setting value for still images, the setting value for video will be displayed in a second display mode different from the first display mode, or the display of the setting value for video will be withheld. An imaging device according to any one of items 1 to 6, characterized in that it is an imaging device. (Item 8) The display size of the setting value for the video in the first display mode is larger than the display size of the setting value for the video in the second display mode. The imaging device according to item 7, characterized by the features described herein. (Item 9) If the first operating member transitions from the half-pressed state to the fully pressed state before the half-pressed state of the first operating member continues for a predetermined time, the control means refrains from starting the recording of the video captured using the video setting value. An imaging device according to any one of items 1 to 8, characterized in that it is an imaging device. (Item 10) A third operating member, Processing means for performing a predetermined process in response to the operation of the third operating member, wherein if the third operating member is operated while the first operating member is in the half-pressed state, the processing means refrains from performing the predetermined process. An imaging device according to any one of items 1 to 9, further comprising the following: (Item 11) A control method performed by an imaging device, The imaging device is A first operating member having a non-pressed state, a half-pressed state, and a fully pressed state, A memory unit that stores the shooting settings for still images and the shooting settings for video, Equipped with, The control method described above is While an image captured using the setting value for still images is being displayed on the display means, in response to the first operating member transitioning from the unpressed state to the half-pressed state, the display means switches to displaying an image captured using the setting value for video. In response to the first operating member transitioning to the fully pressed state, recording of the video captured using the video setting value is started. A control process that controls in this manner, A control method characterized by comprising: (Item 12) A program for causing a computer to function as one of the means of an imaging apparatus described in any one of items 1 to 10.

[0099] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, claims are attached to disclose the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 22...Imaging unit, 28...Display unit, 50...System control unit, 52...System memory, 56...Non-volatile memory, 70...Operation unit, 83...AF-ON button, 100...Camera, 150...Lens unit

Claims

1. An imaging device, A first operating member having a non-pressed state, a half-pressed state, and a fully pressed state, A memory unit that stores the shooting settings for still images and the shooting settings for video, While an image captured using the setting value for still images is being displayed on the display means, in response to the first operating member transitioning from the unpressed state to the half-pressed state, the display means switches to displaying an image captured using the setting value for video. In response to the first operating member transitioning to the fully pressed state, recording of the video captured using the video setting value is started. A control means that controls in this manner, An imaging device characterized by comprising:

2. Further comprising a second operating member, The control means controls the recording of a still image taken using the still image setting value when the second operating member is operated while the image taken using the still image setting value is displayed on the display means. The imaging apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The second operating member is a shutter button having a non-pressed state, a half-pressed state, and a fully pressed state. The control means controls the display means to perform a shooting preparation process when the second operating member is in the half-pressed state while an image captured using the still image setting value is displayed on the display means, and to record the still image captured using the still image setting value when the second operating member is in the fully pressed state. The imaging device according to feature 2.

4. The control means, in response to the first operating member transitioning to the fully pressed state, displays an image captured using the video setting value on the display means and starts recording the video captured using the video setting value. After starting the video recording, in response to the first operating member transitioning to the fully pressed state again, it stops recording the video and controls the display means to display an image captured using the still image setting value. The imaging apparatus according to feature 1.

5. The system has a switching means that, in response to a mode switching operation, switches the operating mode of the imaging device from a plurality of modes, including a still image shooting mode and a video shooting mode. Even in the still image shooting mode, the control means displays an image captured using the video setting value on the display means when the first operating member is in the half-pressed state, and starts recording a video captured using the video setting value when the first operating member transitions to the fully pressed state. The imaging apparatus according to feature 1.

6. The control means, while displaying an image captured using the video setting on the display means, switches to displaying an image captured using the still image setting on the display means in response to the first operating member transitioning from the unpressed state to the half-pressed state, and then controls the first operating member to execute a shooting preparation process using the still image setting in response to the first operating member transitioning to the fully pressed state. The imaging apparatus according to feature 1.

7. While the image captured using the setting value for still images is being displayed on the display means, the control means responds to the transition of the first operating member from the unpressed state to the half-pressed state by: If the setting value for the video differs from the setting value for the still image, the setting value for the video is displayed in the first display mode. If the setting value for video is the same as the setting value for still images, the setting value for video will be displayed in a second display mode different from the first display mode, or the display of the setting value for video will be withheld. The imaging apparatus according to feature 1.

8. The display size of the setting value for the video in the first display mode is larger than the display size of the setting value for the video in the second display mode. The imaging apparatus according to feature 7.

9. If the first operating member transitions from the half-pressed state to the fully pressed state before the half-pressed state of the first operating member continues for a predetermined time, the control means refrains from starting the recording of the video captured using the video setting value. The imaging apparatus according to feature 1.

10. A third operating member, Processing means for performing a predetermined process in response to the operation of the third operating member, wherein if the third operating member is operated while the first operating member is in the half-pressed state, the processing means refrains from performing the predetermined process. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising the following:

11. A control method performed by an imaging device, The imaging device is A first operating member having a non-pressed state, a half-pressed state, and a fully pressed state, A memory unit that stores the shooting settings for still images and the shooting settings for video, Equipped with, The control method described above is While an image captured using the setting value for still images is being displayed on the display means, in response to the first operating member transitioning from the unpressed state to the half-pressed state, the display means switches to displaying an image captured using the setting value for video. In response to the first operating member transitioning to the fully pressed state, recording of the video captured using the video setting value is started. A control process that controls in this manner, A control method characterized by comprising:

12. A program for causing a computer to function as one of the means of an imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

Images