Image capture device, image capture device control method and program

Abstract

To reduce variations in volume of voice data recorded by a voice memo function without increasing the number of components in an apparatus.SOLUTION: An image pickup apparatus includes: first display means; second display means; eye approach detection means configured to detect user's eye approach which means that a user looks into the second display means and the user's eye approaches the second display means; display destination changing control means for controlling to change a display destination of image data in accordance with a detection result of the eye approach detection means; sound collecting means configured to record a voice of the user; synthesis processing control means for controlling to execute synthesis processing of adding voice data recorded by the sound collecting means to the image data; execution means for executing voice recording by the sound collecting means and functioning also as start means to start the voice recording; and first sound-collecting sensitivity adjustment control means for controlling to execute sound-collecting sensitivity adjustment processing for adjusting sound-collecting sensitivity of the sound collecting means, in a case where user's eye approach is detected by the eye approach detection means and the image data is displayed on the second display means, when the voice recording is started by the start means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, imaging devices (e.g., digital cameras) that record image data and information about the image data (hereinafter referred to as "image information") obtained by performing necessary image processing on an imaging signal (raw image signal) output from an imaging element as a data file have been widely used. Specifically, the imaging device forms an optical image on the imaging element with a photographing lens, performs necessary image processing on a raw image signal obtained by photoelectrically converting the formed optical image by the imaging element, and records (saves) image data in a predetermined file format obtained after image processing on a recording medium. The predetermined file format (image storage format) may be, for example, a JPEG format.

[0003] Some of these imaging devices can capture not only still images but also moving images including audio, and those equipped with a microphone for recording audio are widespread. Some imaging devices equipped with a microphone are equipped with a voice memo function that can attach audio data to image data later. Imaging devices equipped with a voice memo function are equipped with a microphone for recording the audio of a subject (hereinafter referred to as a "subject audio recording microphone"), as well as a microphone for recording the audio of a photographer who operates the imaging device (hereinafter referred to as a "user audio recording microphone").

[0004] Hereinafter, the photographer who operates the imaging device will be referred to as the "user." Moreover, image data recorded (saved) on a recording medium will be simply referred to as the "image data." Furthermore, image data in a predetermined file format acquired for recording (saving) on ​​a recording medium (i.e., image data for recording) will also be referred to as the "image data." Moreover, the image data may be still image data or may be moving image data.

[0005] Meanwhile, imaging devices equipped with multiple display units, such as a liquid crystal display (hereinafter also referred to as "LCD") and an electronic viewfinder (hereinafter also referred to as "EVF"), on the rear side of the imaging device have become widespread in recent years. The EVF is a display unit that the user peers into through the eye. In imaging devices equipped with an LCD and an EVF, image data can be selectively played back and displayed on either the LCD or the EVF. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2010-109614 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] However, when a user uses the voice memo function to attach audio data to image data, the distance between the imaging device and the user's face changes depending on whether the user is playing back and displaying the image data on the LCD or the EVF, which causes variations in the volume of the recorded audio data. That is, when recording using the voice memo function, the volume of the recorded audio data (hereinafter also referred to as "recording volume") varies depending on the posture of the user checking the image data being played back and displayed on the LCD or EVF (hereinafter also referred to as "image checking posture").

[0008] Also, as a related technique, the technique of Patent Document 1 has been proposed. In the technique of Patent Document 1, a recording device capable of recording the sound of multiple scenes has multiple microphones with different directivities, and the microphones are switched depending on the scene selected by the user. However, the technique of Patent Document 1 requires the recording device to be provided with multiple microphones as sound collecting members, which causes problems such as an increase in the number of device parts and an increase in cost.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to reduce the variation in the volume of audio data recorded by a voice memo function without increasing the number of device parts. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In order to achieve the above object, an imaging device according to the present invention comprises: an image pickup device configured to be able to select between a first photographing mode and a second photographing mode having a smaller shutter operation sound than the first photographing mode, the image pickup device comprising: a first display means; a second display means; eye proximity detection means for detecting when a user has looked into the second display means and placed his / her eye close to the second display means; a display destination change control means for controlling to change a display destination of image data based on a detection result of the eye proximity detection means; a sound collection means for recording the user's voice; a synthesis process control means for controlling to perform a synthesis process in which the voice data recorded by the sound collection means is attached to the image data; an execution means for performing voice recording by the sound collection means and also functioning as a start means for starting the voice recording; a third sound collection sensitivity adjustment control means for controlling the sound collection sensitivity adjustment process to adjust the sound collection sensitivity of the sound collection means when the user's eye is detected by the eye proximity detection means, the start of the audio recording is detected by the starting means, and the image data to which the audio recording is to be attached is image data obtained by shooting in the first shooting mode; and a fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment control means for controlling the sound collection sensitivity adjustment process to adjust the sound collection sensitivity of the sound collection means when the user's eye is not detected by the eye proximity detection means, the start of the audio recording is detected by the starting means, and the image data to which the audio recording is to be attached is image data obtained by shooting in the second shooting mode. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the variation in the volume of audio data recorded by the voice memo function without increasing the number of device parts. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are diagrams showing an example of the external configuration of an imaging device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, in which FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the imaging device seen from the front side, and FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the imaging device seen from the rear side. [Diagram 2] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an imaging system when an interchangeable lens type lens device is attached to the imaging device of FIG. 1. FIG. [Diagram 3] 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the imaging device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of an imaging device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] 13 is a flowchart showing the operation of an imaging device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the configurations described in the following embodiments are merely examples, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to the configurations described in the embodiments.

[0014] First Embodiment Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of an imaging device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, in which Fig. 1(A) is a perspective view of the imaging device as seen from the front side, and Fig. 1(B) is a perspective view of the imaging device as seen from the rear side.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1(A) and FIG. 1(B), the imaging device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is an imaging device 1 with interchangeable lenses, for example, an interchangeable lens digital camera such as a digital mirrorless single-lens camera or a digital single-lens reflex camera. The imaging device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is equipped with a voice memo function that can attach voice data to image data being reproduced and displayed (i.e., image data being displayed in a reproduction mode). An outside-finder display unit 4 is provided on the top surface of the imaging device 1, and the outside-finder display unit 4 is a display unit that displays various settings of the imaging device 1, including the shutter speed and aperture. A grip unit 25 for holding the imaging device 1 is formed on the right side of the imaging device 1, and the grip unit 25 is a grip unit formed in a shape that is easy for a photographer (user) to hold with his or her right hand when holding the imaging device 1. A lid 24 is provided on the right wall of the grip unit 25, and the lid 24 is a lid of a slot for storing a recording medium (not shown).

[0016] The shutter button 5 and main electronic dial 8 are located at positions that can be operated with the index finger of the right hand when the user holds the imaging device 1 by gripping the grip portion 25 with the little finger, ring finger, and middle finger of the right hand. The shutter button 5 is an operation unit for receiving shooting instructions from the user. The main electronic dial 8 is a rotating operation member, and the user can change settings such as shutter speed and aperture by rotating the main electronic dial 8.

[0017] In addition, the sub electronic dial 11 and the selection member 26 are disposed at positions that can be operated by the thumb of the user's right hand while holding the imaging device 1. The sub electronic dial 11 is a rotary operation member for instructing the movement of a selection frame, image forwarding, etc. In addition, the selection member 26 is a cross key (four-way key) whose up, down, left, and right parts can be pressed, respectively, and an operation can be performed according to the part of the four-way key that is pressed.

[0018] A mode change switch 6 is disposed in the center of the sub electronic dial 11. The mode change switch 6 is an operation unit for switching between various modes. A video button 14 is disposed between the main electronic dial 8 and the mode change switch 6. The video button 14 is used to instruct the start and stop of video shooting (video recording).

[0019] A terminal cover 7 is provided on the left side surface of the imaging device 1 facing the grip part 25, and the terminal cover 7 is a cover for protecting a connector (not shown) such as a connection cable that connects a connection cable with an external device to the imaging device 1. In addition, a power switch 10 is provided on the upper left side of the imaging device 1, and the power switch 10 is an operating member for switching the power of the imaging device 1 ON and OFF.

[0020] A display unit 2 is provided on the rear surface of the imaging device 1, and the display unit 2 is a display unit for displaying various information including image data and image information, and is configured, for example, with a liquid crystal display (LCD). The display surface (i.e., the operation surface) of the display unit 2 is a touch panel 3, and a touch operation on the touch panel 3, which is the display surface (operation surface) of the display unit 2, is detected by an operation detection unit 286, which will be described later.

[0021] An operation unit 9 is provided adjacent to the display unit 2 on the right side of the display unit 2. The operation unit 9 is composed of a number of push buttons and an operation dial 12. The operation dial 12 is a rotary operation member, and the user can change settings such as shutter speed and aperture by rotating the operation dial 12. A SET button 13 is located in the center of the operation dial 12. The SET button 13 is a push button, and is mainly used to confirm selected items, etc.

[0022] A playback button 17 is disposed below the operation dial 12. The playback button 17 is an operation button for switching between a shooting mode and a playback mode. In the shooting mode (when the user is shooting), pressing the playback button 17 causes a transition to the playback mode, and the latest image data among the image data recorded (saved) in a recording medium (not shown) can be displayed on the display unit 2. In addition, when the user is not shooting, pressing the playback button 17 causes a transition to the playback mode, and image data selected by the user using an operation member from the image data recorded (saved) in the recording medium can be displayed on the display unit 2. The recording medium corresponds to a storage unit 284 described later.

[0023] An AE (auto exposure) lock button 15 is disposed above the operation unit 9, and by pressing the AE lock button 15 in a shooting standby state, the exposure state can be fixed. Also, a magnification button 16 is disposed above the operation unit 9 adjacent to the AE lock button 15. The magnification button 16 is an operation button for turning the magnification mode ON and OFF in the live view display in the shooting mode. By turning the magnification mode ON with the magnification button 16 and then operating the main electronic dial 8, the live view image can be enlarged or reduced. Also, the magnification button 16 functions as a magnification button for enlarging the image (playback image) displayed on the display unit 2 in the playback mode and increasing the magnification ratio.

[0024] The EVF 22 is provided above the display unit 2. The EVF 22 is a peer-type electronic viewfinder and has an eyepiece unit 21. A user can view an image displayed on a small display unit (not shown) configured inside the EVF 22 through the eyepiece unit 21. Hereinafter, without any particular distinction between the EVF 22 and the small display unit configured inside the EVF 22, "an image displayed on a small display unit configured inside the EVF 22" will be simply referred to as "an image displayed on the EVF 22".

[0025] The eyepiece detection unit 23 may be disposed near the EVF 22. In the first embodiment, the eyepiece detection unit 23 is disposed below the EVF 22 so as to be adjacent to the EVF 22. The eyepiece detection unit 23 is configured to detect whether or not the user places his / her eye on the eyepiece unit 21 as an eyepiece detection means, and may be configured by an eyepiece detection sensor, for example. In the imaging device 1, when the eyepiece detection unit 23 detects that the user places his / her eye on the eyepiece unit 21, the display unit 2 is hidden and the display is switched to the EVF 22. Hereinafter, the "user places his / her eye on the eyepiece unit 21" is simply referred to as "user's eyepiece". That is, in the imaging device 1, when the eyepiece detection unit 23 detects that the user places his / her eye, the imaging device 1 outputs a user's eyepiece detection signal indicating that the user's eyepiece has been detected to the camera system control unit 281, which will be described later. On the other hand, when the eyepiece detection unit 23 does not detect that the user places his / her eye, the imaging device 1 does not output a user's eyepiece detection signal to the camera system control unit 281.

[0026] A menu button 19 is disposed on the left side of the eyepiece 21. The menu button 19 is a push button, and when the menu button 19 is pressed, a menu screen in which various settings can be made is displayed on the display unit 2. The user can intuitively make various settings using the menu screen displayed on the display unit 2, the operation dial 12, and the SET button 13. A voice recording button 18 is disposed on the left side of the menu button 19 so as to be adjacent to the menu button 19. The voice recording button 18 is a push button as an execution means for recording using a voice memo function that adds voice data to image data being played and displayed in the playback mode (hereinafter simply referred to as "voice memo recording"). The voice recording button 18 is also a voice memo recording start button as a start means for starting voice memo recording (i.e., recording of the user's voice).

[0027] Hereinafter, "image data obtained by attaching voice data to image data later using the voice memo function" is referred to as "image data with voice memo" or "voice-attached image data". In the playback mode, the user selects and displays the image data to which voice data is to be attached, and while continuing to press the voice recording button 18, the user's own voice is recorded by the user voice recording microphone 530 arranged inside the microphone hole 110 as a sound collection hole. The user voice recording microphone 530 is provided on the rear side of the imaging device 1. In more detail, while visually checking the image data (image) being played back and displayed in the playback mode, the user can add the user's own voice to the image as a voice memo, including all information related to the image, such as the shooting conditions of the image and information on the subject. This makes it easier for the user to grasp all information related to the image by the recorded voice in the voice-attached image data when checking the image data thereafter, that is, when checking the voice-attached image data later.

[0028] A lens mount section 28 is provided on the front surface of the imaging device 1. The lens mount section 28 is a section for mounting a lens device (an interchangeable lens type lens device) that is detachable from the imaging device 1. A communication terminal 20 is disposed inside the lens mount section 28, and the communication terminal 20 is a terminal for communicating between the imaging device 1 and the lens device.

[0029] A lock button 27 is disposed adjacent to the lens mount section 28 on the left side of the central portion of the diameter of the lens mount section 28. A retention lock mechanism (not shown) functions when the lens device is attached to the imaging device 1. By pressing the lock button 27, the retention lock mechanism is released, and the lens device can be removed.

[0030] Various lenses, such as a full-size compatible lens capable of exposing the entire effective area of ​​the image sensor 90, and an APS-C compatible lens which is a lens with a format having a small exposure area, can be attached as a detachable lens device to the image sensor 1. The image sensor 90 is an image sensor that converts an optical image into an electrical signal, and for example, the image sensor 90 is a so-called 35 mm full-size CMOS sensor having an effective area of ​​approximately 24 mm x 36 mm.

[0031] A microphone hole 30 is disposed on the front of the imaging device 1 and in the upper right part of the lens mount section 28. A subject voice recording microphone 520 is disposed inside the microphone hole 30 as a sound collecting member, and the subject voice recording microphone 520 is used to record the voice of the subject during video (moving image) shooting. A speaker hole 31 is disposed on the front of the imaging device 1 and in the upper left part of the lens mount section 28. A speaker (not shown) is disposed inside the speaker hole 31, and is used to play back the voice of the image data and the built-in voice of the imaging device 1.

[0032] Furthermore, strap insertion members 40 and 41 are provided on the left and right shoulders of the imaging device 1. A user can carry the imaging device 1 by hanging it by inserting a string-like member (not shown) such as a strap through the strap insertion members 40 and 41.

[0033] Next, the overall configuration of an imaging system having an imaging device according to a first embodiment of the present invention and an interchangeable lens type lens device will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an imaging system when an interchangeable lens type lens device is attached to the imaging device of Fig. 1.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 2, the imaging system includes an imaging device 1 with interchangeable lenses and a lens device 270 of an interchangeable lens type, and is, for example, a digital camera with an interchangeable lens attached.

[0035] The lens device 270 has a lens system control unit 272, a lens driving unit 273, and an imaging optical system 274. The imaging optical system 274 has multiple lenses such as a focus lens and a zoom lens, and an aperture, and the optical axis of the imaging optical system 274 is indicated by reference numeral 299. The lens system control unit 272 serves as a lens system control means and controls the operation of the entire lens device 270. The lens driving unit 273 drives multiple lenses such as a focus lens and a zoom lens, and an aperture, in accordance with a control command signal from the lens system control unit 272.

[0036] The imaging device 1 has a camera system control unit 281, an audio control unit 282, an image processing unit 283, a storage unit 284, a first display unit 285, an operation detection unit 286, a shake detection unit 287, a shake correction unit 288, and a shutter mechanism unit 289. The imaging device 1 also has an imaging element 290, a second display unit 291, and an eyepiece detection unit 292. The camera system control unit 281 is connected to the image processing unit 283, the audio control unit 282, the first display unit 285, the second display unit 291, the operation detection unit 286, the shake detection unit 287, the shake correction unit 288, and the shutter mechanism unit 289, respectively. The camera system control unit 281 is also connected to the imaging element 290 via the shake correction unit 288. The camera system control unit 281 is connected to the storage unit 284 via the audio control unit 282 and the image processing unit 283. Furthermore, the camera system control unit 281 is connected to an image processing unit 283 and a storage unit 284 via a sound control unit 282. The camera system control unit 281 is also connected to a lens system control unit 272 of the lens device 270 via the communication terminal 220.

[0037] The camera system control unit 281, as a control unit, controls the operation of the entire imaging system including the imaging device 1 and the lens device 270. The operation detection unit 286, as a user operation detection unit, is configured to detect an operation by a user that reflects a user instruction, and when the operation by the user is detected, outputs a user operation signal corresponding to the detected operation to the camera system control unit 281. The camera system control unit 281 generally controls the operation of each unit of the imaging device 1 and the lens device 270 according to a user operation signal (hereinafter, also simply referred to as an "operation signal") output from the operation detection unit 286. The user operation signal is a signal that reflects a user instruction such as a shooting instruction, that is, a signal corresponding to an operation by a user (hereinafter, simply referred to as a "user operation"). The camera system control unit 281 may be configured by a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The camera system control unit 281 configured by the CPU generally controls the operation of each unit of the imaging system by executing a predetermined computer program, and performs various processes in the imaging system. In addition, the camera system control unit 281 is capable of communicating with the lens system control unit 272 connected via a communication terminal 220 .

[0038] The image sensor 290 receives light from the subject via the imaging optical system 274 and the shutter mechanism 289 to obtain an optical image (subject image), converts the obtained optical image into an electrical signal (raw image signal) by photoelectric conversion, and outputs the electrical signal. The image processing unit 283 obtains the raw image signal output by the image sensor 290, and performs necessary image processing, such as digital development processing, on the obtained raw image signal. Image data obtained after the image processing is stored (recorded) in the storage unit 284. The shutter mechanism 289 is disposed on the subject side of the image sensor 290, and is used to control the exposure time of the image sensor 290.

[0039] The shake detection unit 287 performs a shake detection process to detect a shake of the imaging device caused by hand shake or the like. Specifically, the shake detection unit 287 is configured to detect rotation about the optical axis 299 as a central axis, and detects rotational shake of the imaging device in the pitch direction, yaw direction, and roll direction. For example, the shake detection unit 287 performs a shake detection process using a gyro sensor, and when it detects a shake of the imaging device, it outputs a shake detection signal indicating that a shake of the imaging device has been detected to the camera system control unit 281. On the other hand, when the shake detection unit 287 does not detect a shake of the imaging device, it does not output a shake detection signal to the camera system control unit 281.

[0040] The image blur correction unit 288 corrects image blur of the subject image. Specifically, the image blur correction unit 288 performs an image blur correction operation in accordance with a control command signal from the camera system control unit 281. The image blur correction operation is an operation of performing drive control to drive (move or rotate) the image sensor 290 within a plane perpendicular to the optical axis 299.

[0041] Next, the operation of each part of the imaging device 1 configured as described above will be described.

[0042] Light from the subject passes through the imaging optical system 274 and the shutter mechanism 289 and forms an image on the imaging surface of the imaging element 290. The imaging device 1 acquires a focus evaluation amount and an exposure amount based on a signal from the imaging element 290, and performs optical adjustment processing of the imaging optical system 274 based on the acquired information such as the focus evaluation amount and the exposure amount. That is, after the imaging element 290 is properly exposed by the optical adjustment processing, an imaging signal corresponding to the subject image is output from the imaging element 290.

[0043] The shutter mechanism 289 performs light blocking control for the image sensor 290 by moving the shutter curtain. The shutter mechanism 289 has a mechanical rear curtain (not shown) as a light blocking member, and the completion of exposure to the image sensor 290 is performed by moving the mechanical rear curtain. In the image sensor 290, electronic front curtain processing is performed prior to the mechanical rear curtain running of the shutter mechanism 289. The electronic front curtain processing is a process that controls the timing of exposure start by resetting the charge for each line. In the electronic front curtain mode, the reset operation of the charge of the image sensor 290 and the movement of the mechanical rear curtain of the shutter mechanism 289 are synchronized to control the exposure of the image sensor 290.

[0044] The shutter mechanism unit 289 is configured to be selectively changed to a silent shooting mode in which "electronic rear curtain processing is performed without running the mechanical rear curtain," which is different from the above-mentioned normal shutter curtain running mode (normal shooting mode). In the silent shooting mode, the shutter mechanism unit 289 performs electronic rear curtain processing without running the mechanical rear curtain, so that silent shooting can be performed with a shutter sound smaller than a normal shutter operation sound (hereinafter simply referred to as "shutter sound"). The normal shooting mode corresponds to the first shooting mode, and the silent shooting mode corresponds to the second shooting mode. The imaging device 1 is configured to be able to select the first shooting mode and the second shooting mode in which the shutter operation sound is smaller than that of the first shooting mode. When the operation detection unit 286 detects a user operation in which the user selects the silent shooting mode using an operating member (hereinafter simply referred to as a "silent shooting mode selection operation"), it outputs a silent shooting mode signal corresponding to the operation to the camera system control unit 281. The camera system control unit 281 performs silent shooting mode control of the shutter mechanism unit 289 in accordance with the silent shooting mode signal output from the operation detection unit 286. Note that since technology relating to the electronic front and rear curtains is well known, detailed description of the electronic front curtain processing and electronic rear curtain processing will be omitted.

[0045] The image processing unit 283 has an A / D converter (not shown), a white balance adjustment circuit (not shown), a gamma correction circuit (not shown), an interpolation calculation circuit (not shown), etc. The image processing unit 283 generates color image data by, for example, performing color interpolation (demosaicing) processing on a Bayer array raw image signal acquired from the imaging element 290, and outputs the generated color image data to the storage unit 284 as image data for recording. Furthermore, the image processing unit 283 is configured to compress image data (still image data, moving image data) according to an image storage format.

[0046] The audio control unit 282 compresses the audio data recorded by the sound collection member (microphone). The audio control unit 282 is configured to be able to adjust (change) the sound collection sensitivity of the sound collection member (microphone), and by adjusting the sound collection sensitivity of the sound collection member, it is possible to adjust (change) the volume level of the audio data recorded by the sound collection member (hereinafter simply referred to as "recording volume level").

[0047] The image processing unit 283, as a synthesis means, performs synthesis processing to synthesize the audio data compressed by the audio control unit 282 with image data (still image data or moving image data), thereby acquiring audio-accompanying image data, and outputs the acquired audio-accompanying image data to the storage unit 284. The camera system control unit 281, as a synthesis processing control means, controls the image processing unit 283 to perform the synthesis processing (i.e., processing to attach audio data to image data). The storage unit 284, as a recording means, records (saves) various data including image data and audio-accompanying image data, various information including image information, and the like. The storage unit 284 may be configured with a non-volatile memory. The camera system control unit 281 performs a recording process of "recording various data including image data and various information including image information in the storage unit 284" and a first display unit display process of "outputting the image data read out from the storage unit 284 to the first display unit 285 for display". When the first display unit display process is performed and the eye contact detection unit 292 outputs a user eye contact detection signal to the camera system control unit 281, the camera system control unit 281 stops the first display unit display process and performs the second display unit display process to switch the display destination of the image data. That is, the camera system control unit 281, as a display destination change control means, controls to change the display destination of the image data depending on the presence or absence of a user eye contact detection signal (detection result of the eye contact detection unit 292 as an eye contact detection means). Incidentally, the second display unit display process is a process of outputting image data read from the storage unit 284 to the second display unit 291 for display, that is, a process of outputting image data that was displayed on the first display unit 285 to the second display unit 291 for display.

[0048] Note that a first display unit 285 in Fig. 2 corresponds to the display unit 2 in Fig. 1 and functions as a first display means. Also, a second display unit 291 in Fig. 2 corresponds to the EVF 22 in Fig. 1 and functions as a second display means. Furthermore, an eyepiece detection unit 292 in Fig. 2 corresponds to the eyepiece detection unit 23 in Fig. 1.

[0049] The camera system control unit 281 controls various operations and processes based on user instructions, such as a shooting operation for taking an image and a display process for playing back and displaying recorded image data, in accordance with a user operation signal output from the operation detection unit 286.

[0050] Here, the operation of each part of the imaging device 1 when the operation detection unit 286 detects a user operation reflecting a shooting instruction (hereinafter, simply referred to as a "shooting instruction operation") will be described. The shooting instruction operation is an operation performed by the user using an operating member of the imaging device 1, and may be, for example, a user pressing the shutter button 5 or a user pressing the video button 14. The shutter button 5 is composed of a push button type two-stage switch (a first switch and a second switch), and an operation of lightly pressing the shutter button 5 is called a "half press operation", and an operation of further pressing the shutter button 5 to the end is called a "full press operation". In other words, the half press operation is an operation of turning on the first switch (hereinafter, simply referred to as a "first switch operation"), and the full press operation is an operation of turning on the second switch (hereinafter, simply referred to as a "second switch operation"). When the operation detection unit 286 detects a shooting instruction operation, it outputs a shooting instruction signal corresponding to the shooting instruction operation to the camera system control unit 281.

[0051] Hereinafter, the operation of each part of the imaging device 1 when the operation detection unit 286 detects the user's pressing operation of the shutter button 5 will be described. The first switch is turned on by the first switch operation of the shutter button 5. Furthermore, the second switch is turned on by the second switch operation of the shutter button 5. When the camera system control unit 281 receives a shooting instruction signal corresponding to the second switch operation output from the operation detection unit 286, it controls the drive control of the imaging element 290 by the shake correction unit 288, and the image processing and image data compression processing performed by the image processing unit 283. Furthermore, the camera system control unit 281 controls the display screen of the first display unit 285 to display various information including image information. Moreover, when the operation detection unit 286 detects an operation by the user on the operation surface of the first display unit 285 (i.e., the touch panel 3 of the display unit 2 in FIG. 1(B)), it outputs a user operation signal corresponding to the detected operation to the camera system control unit 281.

[0052] Furthermore, the camera system control unit 281 calculates an appropriate focal position and aperture value based on a signal from the imaging element 290. That is, the camera system control unit 281 detects the photometry and focus state based on the signal from the imaging element 290, and determines, for example, the aperture value (F value), shutter speed, etc. as exposure conditions. The camera system control unit 281 performs exposure control of the imaging element 290 by aperture control and shutter control. The camera system control unit 281 transmits a control command signal to the lens system control unit 272 via the communication terminal 220. The lens system control unit 272 controls the lens driving unit 273 according to the control command signal from the camera system control unit 281.

[0053] The camera system control unit 281 controls the operation of each unit of the imaging device 1 in response to a shooting instruction operation, thereby controlling the shooting operation for shooting a still image or a moving image. That is, when the operation detection unit 286 detects a shooting instruction operation, the camera system control unit 281 controls the shooting operation for shooting a still image or a moving image in accordance with a shooting instruction signal output from the operation detection unit 286. The camera system control unit 281 calculates a target value based on a shake detection signal output from the shake detection unit 287, and drives the shake correction unit 288 based on the calculated target value. That is, the camera system control unit 281 is responsible for calculating the target value based on the shake detection signal and controlling the drive control by the shake correction unit 288. Incidentally, the "control of the drive control by the shake correction unit 288" performed by the camera system control unit 281 means controlling the image shake correction operation performed by the shake correction unit 288 in response to shooting conditions, exposure conditions, etc.

[0054] Here, the flow of drive control by the shake correction unit 288 will be described. When the operation detection unit 286 detects a first switch operation by the user, a shooting preparation operation is started under the control of the camera system control unit 281. During a so-called aiming operation for determining a composition, an image blur correction operation is performed by the shake correction unit 288 to facilitate the user's composition. That is, the image sensor 290 is driven (moved or rotated) by drive control by the shake correction unit 288 based on a shake detection signal from the shake detection unit 287. After that, when the operation detection unit 286 detects a second switch operation by the user, a shooting operation (image recording operation) is started under the control of the camera system control unit 281. At this time, in order to correct image blur of the subject image acquired by the exposure operation, the camera system control unit 281 controls the shake correction unit 288 based on the shake detection signal from the shake detection unit 287 to perform an image blur correction operation for driving the image sensor 290. When a certain time has elapsed after exposure, the camera system control unit 281 controls the image blur correction unit 288 to stop the image blur correction operation.

[0055] Next, the operation of the imaging device according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment. In the following description, S means step.

[0056] First, in S301, in the imaging device 1, when the operation detection unit 286 detects "pressing of the play button 17" (hereinafter simply referred to as "play button pressing operation"), an operation signal corresponding to the detected play button pressing operation is output to the camera system control unit 281. Hereinafter, the operation signal corresponding to the play button pressing operation is simply referred to as the "play button pressing operation signal."

[0057] Next, in S302, the camera system control unit 281 that has received the playback button pressing operation signal determines whether or not to transition to a playback mode in which image data is played back and displayed, and if it is determined to transition to the playback mode, proceeds to S303. On the other hand, in S302, if the camera system control unit 281 determines not to transition to the playback mode, that is, if it is determined that the mode is not the playback mode, it ends the process.

[0058] In S303, the eyepiece detection unit 292 determines whether or not the user's eye is placed in contact with the object. When the eyepiece detection unit 292 determines that the user's eye is placed in contact with the object (hereinafter referred to as a "user's eyepiece detection state"), the eyepiece detection unit 292 outputs a user's eyepiece detection signal indicating the user's eyepiece detection state, which is the detection result by the eyepiece detection unit 292, to the camera system control unit 281, and the process proceeds to S304. At this time, since the detection result by the eyepiece detection unit 292 is the user's eyepiece detection state, the user's posture is one in which the user is peering into the second display unit 291.

[0059] In S304, the camera system control unit 281, which has received the user's eye proximity detection signal, performs second display unit display processing to play back and display the image data on the second display unit 291, and the user can check the image data played back and displayed on the second display unit 291. In other words, the user's image checking posture is a posture in which the image data is checked with the imaging device 1 and the user's face in close proximity (hereinafter also referred to as the "image checking posture in close proximity"). When the image data is played back and displayed on the second display unit 291 (EVF 22), the camera system control unit 281 advances the process to S305.

[0060] In S305, the operation detection unit 286 detects whether the voice record button 18 has been pressed, that is, determines whether the user has pressed the voice record button. If the operation detection unit 286 detects that the voice record button 18 has been pressed, it outputs an operation signal corresponding to the voice record button pressing operation (hereinafter referred to as a "voice memo recording operation signal") to the camera system control unit 281, and the process proceeds to S306. On the other hand, if the operation detection unit 286 does not detect that the voice record button 18 has been pressed in S305, that is, if it determines that the voice record button pressing operation has not been performed, the camera system control unit 281 ends the process.

[0061] In S306, the camera system control unit 281, having received the voice memo recording operation signal, causes the audio control unit 282 to perform a first sound collection sensitivity adjustment process for lowering the sound collection sensitivity (recording volume level) of the user voice recording microphone 530, and then proceeds to the process at S307. In S306, the camera system control unit 281 functions as a first sound collection sensitivity adjustment control means, and controls the audio control unit 282 as a sound collection sensitivity adjustment means to perform the first sound collection sensitivity adjustment process. The first sound collection sensitivity adjustment process is a process for lowering the recording volume level by a first predetermined ratio (for example, a ratio of 10% to 30%) compared to the recording volume level at which voice memo recording is started when the user moves his / her face away from the imaging device 1 (i.e., in the case of YES in S309).

[0062] In S307, the camera system control unit 281 performs control to start voice memo recording. While the voice recording button 18 is pressed, the user can record the user's own voice while viewing the image (image data) being played back and displayed on the second display unit 291 (EVF 22). In other words, while the voice recording button 18 is pressed, it functions as an execution unit for performing voice memo recording (recording of the user's voice by the user voice recording microphone 530). When the user releases the voice recording button 18, the camera system control unit 281 performs control to end the voice memo recording.

[0063] On the other hand, in S303, when the eyepiece detection unit 292 determines that the user's eye is not detected (hereinafter referred to as a "user's eyepiece non-detected state"), the process proceeds to S308 because the detection result by the eyepiece detection unit 292 is the user's eyepiece non-detected state. At this time, because the detection result by the eyepiece detection unit 292 is the user's eyepiece non-detected state, the user's posture is one in which the face is away from the imaging device 1.

[0064] In S308, the camera system control unit 281 performs a first display unit display process for playing back and displaying the image data on the first display unit 285, and the user can check the image data being played back and displayed on the first display unit 285. That is, the image checking posture of the user is a posture in which the image data is checked with the face away from the imaging device 1 (hereinafter also referred to as "image checking posture in a distant state"). When the image data is played back and displayed on the first display unit 285 (display unit 2), the camera system control unit 281 advances the process to S309.

[0065] In S309, the operation detection unit 286 detects whether the voice recording button 18 has been pressed, that is, determines whether the user has pressed the voice recording button. If the operation detection unit 286 detects that the voice recording button 18 has been pressed, the process proceeds to S307, and the camera system control unit 281 controls to start voice memo recording. While the user is pressing the voice recording button 18, the user can record the user's own voice while viewing the image (image data) being reproduced and displayed on the first display unit 285 (display unit 2). When the user releases the voice recording button 18, the camera system control unit 281 controls to end the voice memo recording.

[0066] On the other hand, in S309, if the operation detection unit 286 does not detect that the voice recording button 18 has been pressed, that is, if it determines that the voice recording button pressing operation has not been performed, the camera system control unit 281 terminates the processing.

[0067] As described above, even if the user records a voice memo at a constant speaking volume with the image capture device 1 and the user's face close to each other, the process of lowering the recording volume level has already been performed before recording, so the recording volume level is approximately the same as when the user's face is away from the image capture device 1. The process of lowering the recording volume level is the first sound collection sensitivity adjustment process of S306. Therefore, even if the user records a voice memo at a constant speaking volume regardless of the image confirmation posture, the variation in the recording volume can be reduced.

[0068] Furthermore, the user may arbitrarily adjust the recording volume level in the first sound collection sensitivity adjustment process performed in S306 using an operation member of the imaging device 1. The adjustment rate of the recording volume level in the first sound collection sensitivity adjustment process (i.e., the first predetermined rate for lowering the recording volume level) is not limited to the rate of 10% to 30% described above.

[0069] In the first embodiment, the user voice recording microphone 530 is provided on the rear side of the imaging device 1, but as long as it is a position where the user voice can be collected, the user voice recording microphone 530 may be located, for example, on the top, front, or side of the imaging device 1. In the first embodiment, the user voice recording microphone 530 is used as a sound collection means (sound collection member) that records the user's voice, but as long as it is a member that can collect the user voice, for example, the subject voice recording microphone 520 may be used as a sound collection member that records the subject's voice.

[0070] <Second embodiment> A second embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0071] The configuration of the imaging device according to the second embodiment of the present invention is similar to the configuration of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1(A), 1(B) and 2, so the description will be omitted.

[0072] Here, the operation of the imaging device according to the second embodiment will be described using each unit of the imaging device 1. Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the imaging device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] First, in S400, when the operation detection unit 286 detects a shooting instruction operation, the camera system control unit 281 controls the shooting operation so as to make the imaging device shoot an image according to the shooting instruction signal output from the operation detection unit 286, and proceeds to the process at S401. In S401, when the operation detection unit 286 detects a play button press operation, it outputs a play button press operation signal to the camera system control unit 281.

[0074] Next, in S402, the camera system control unit 281 that has received the playback button pressing operation signal determines whether or not to transition to a playback mode in which image data is played back and displayed, and if it is determined to transition to the playback mode, proceeds to S403. On the other hand, in S402, if it is determined not to transition to the playback mode, the camera system control unit 281 ends the process.

[0075] In S403, the operation detection unit 286 detects whether or not the voice record button 18 has been pressed. If the operation detection unit 286 detects that the voice record button 18 has been pressed, it outputs a voice memo recording operation signal to the camera system control unit 281 and proceeds to S404. On the other hand, if the operation detection unit 286 does not detect that the voice record button 18 has been pressed in S403, the camera system control unit 281 ends the process.

[0076] In S404, the camera system control unit 281 determines whether the image shooting performed in S400 was performed in silent shooting mode (hereinafter referred to as "silent shooting"). As described above, the shutter sound in silent shooting mode is smaller than the shutter sound in normal shooting mode. In S404, when the camera system control unit 281 determines that the image shooting performed in S400 was not silent shooting, the process proceeds to S406, and controls to start voice memo recording. While the user is pressing the voice recording button 18, the user can record his / her own voice. When the user releases the voice recording button 18, the camera system control unit 281 controls to end the voice memo recording.

[0077] On the other hand, in S404, when the camera system control unit 281 determines that the image shooting performed in S400 was silent shooting, the process proceeds to S405. In S405, the camera system control unit 281, which has received the voice memo recording operation signal, causes the audio control unit 282 to perform a second sound collection sensitivity adjustment process to increase the sound collection sensitivity (recording volume level) of the user voice recording microphone 530, and then proceeds to S406. In S405, the camera system control unit 281 functions as a second sound collection sensitivity adjustment control unit, and controls the audio control unit 282 as a sound collection sensitivity adjustment unit to perform the second sound collection sensitivity adjustment process. The second sound collection sensitivity adjustment process is a process of increasing the sound collection sensitivity by a second predetermined ratio (for example, a ratio of 10% to 30%) compared to the recording volume level at which voice memo recording is started when it is determined that the image shooting in S400 was not silent shooting (i.e., when NO in S404).

[0078] In S406, the camera system control unit 281 performs control to start voice memo recording. The user can record the user's own voice while pressing the voice recording button 18. When the user releases the voice recording button 18, the camera system control unit 281 performs control to end the voice memo recording.

[0079] As described above, when the user wants to use the voice memo function in a scene where silent shooting has been performed, the process of increasing the recording volume level (the second sound collection sensitivity adjustment process in S405) has already been performed before recording, so even if the user speaks softly, the recorded volume level will increase. Therefore, even if the user performs voice memo recording in a scene where silent shooting has been performed (i.e., a scene where they do not want to make noise) with the speaking volume lowered out of consideration for the surroundings, the variation in the recorded volume can be reduced.

[0080] Also, the user may arbitrarily adjust the recording volume level in the second sound collection sensitivity adjustment process performed in S405 using the operation member of the imaging device 1. The adjustment rate of the recording volume level in the second sound collection sensitivity adjustment process (i.e., the second predetermined rate for increasing the recording volume level) is not limited to the rate of 10% to 30% described above.

[0081] In the second embodiment as well, the user voice recording microphone 530 is provided on the back side of the imaging device 1, but as long as it is a position where the user voice can be collected, the user voice recording microphone 530 may be located, for example, on the top, front or side of the imaging device 1. In the second embodiment as well, the user voice recording microphone 530 is used as a sound collection means (sound collection member) that records the user's voice, but as long as it is a member that can collect the user voice, for example, the subject voice recording microphone 520 may be used as a sound collection member that records the subject's voice.

[0082] <Third embodiment> A third embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0083] The configuration of the imaging device according to the third embodiment of the present invention is similar to the configuration of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1(A), 1(B) and 2, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0084] Here, the operation of the imaging device according to the third embodiment will be described using each unit of the imaging device 1. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the imaging device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] First, in S500, when the operation detection unit 286 detects a shooting instruction operation, the camera system control unit 281 controls the shooting operation so as to make the imaging device shoot an image according to the shooting instruction signal output from the operation detection unit 286, and proceeds to the process at S501. In S501, when the operation detection unit 286 detects a play button press operation, it outputs a play button press operation signal to the camera system control unit 281.

[0086] Next, in S502, the camera system control unit 281 that has received the playback button pressing operation signal determines whether or not to transition to a playback mode in which image data is played back and displayed, and if it is determined to transition to the playback mode, proceeds to S503. On the other hand, in S502, if it is determined not to transition to the playback mode, the camera system control unit 281 ends the process.

[0087] In S503, the eyepiece detection unit 292 determines whether or not the user's eye is placed in contact with the camera. If the eyepiece detection unit 292 determines that the user's eye is in a close-to-eye position, the eyepiece detection unit 292 outputs a user's eyepiece detection signal indicating the user's eyepiece detection state, which is the detection result by the eyepiece detection unit 292, to the camera system control unit 281, and the process proceeds to S504. At this time, since the detection result by the eyepiece detection unit 292 indicates the user's eyepiece detection state, the user's posture is one in which the user is peering into the second display unit 291.

[0088] In S504, the camera system control unit 281 that has received the user's eye proximity detection signal performs second display unit display processing for playing back and displaying the image data on the second display unit 291, and the user can check the image data being played back and displayed on the second display unit 291. In other words, the user's image checking posture is the image checking posture in the close-up state. When the image data is played back and displayed on the second display unit 291 (EVF 22), the camera system control unit 281 advances the process to S505.

[0089] In S505, the operation detection unit 286 detects whether the voice record button 18 has been pressed, that is, determines whether the user has pressed the voice record button. If the operation detection unit 286 detects that the voice record button 18 has been pressed, it outputs a voice memo recording operation signal to the camera system control unit 281 and proceeds to S506. On the other hand, if the operation detection unit 286 does not detect that the voice record button 18 has been pressed in S505, that is, if it determines that the voice record button has not been pressed, the camera system control unit 281 ends the process.

[0090] In S506, the camera system control unit 281 determines whether the image shooting performed in S500 was silent shooting or not, and if it is determined that the image shooting performed in S500 was silent shooting, the process proceeds to S507.

[0091] In S507, the camera system control unit 281, which has received the voice memo recording operation signal, causes the audio control unit 282 to perform a third sound collection sensitivity adjustment process for increasing the sound collection sensitivity (recording volume level) of the user voice recording microphone 530, and then proceeds to the process at S513. In S507, the camera system control unit 281 functions as a third sound collection sensitivity adjustment control unit, and controls the audio control unit 282 as a sound collection sensitivity adjustment unit to perform the third sound collection sensitivity adjustment process. The third sound collection sensitivity adjustment process is a process for increasing the recording volume level by a third predetermined ratio compared to the recording volume level at which voice memo recording is started when the user has moved his / her face away from the imaging device 1 and it is determined that the image shooting in S500 is not silent shooting (i.e., when NO in S511). The third predetermined ratio for increasing the recording volume level is, for example, a ratio between 10% and 20%.

[0092] On the other hand, in S506, if the camera system control unit 281 determines that the image capturing performed in S500 was not silent capturing, the process proceeds to S508.

[0093] In S508, the camera system control unit 281, which has received the voice memo recording operation signal, causes the audio control unit 282 to perform a fourth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process to lower the sound collection sensitivity (recording volume level) of the user voice recording microphone 530, and then proceeds to S513. In S508, the camera system control unit 281 functions as a fourth sound collection sensitivity adjustment control unit, and controls the audio control unit 282 as a sound collection sensitivity adjustment unit to perform the fourth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process. The fourth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process is a process of lowering the recording volume level by a fourth predetermined ratio compared to the recording volume level at which voice memo recording is started when the user has moved his / her face away from the imaging device 1 and it is determined that the image shooting in S500 is not silent shooting (i.e., when NO in S511). The fourth predetermined ratio by which the recording volume level is lowered is, for example, a ratio between 10% and 30%.

[0094] In S513, the camera system control unit 281 performs control to start voice memo recording. In both cases where S513 is performed after S507 and S513 is performed after S508, the user can record his / her own voice while viewing the image being reproduced and displayed on the second display unit 291 while pressing the voice recording button 18. When the user releases the voice recording button 18, the camera system control unit 281 performs control to end the voice memo recording.

[0095] Returning to the description of S503, in S503, when it is determined that the user's eye is in a non-detected state, the eyepiece detection unit 292 advances the process to S509 because the detection result by the eyepiece detection unit 292 is the user's eyepiece non-detected state. At this time, because the detection result by the eyepiece detection unit 292 is the user's eyepiece non-detected state, the user's posture is one in which the face is away from the imaging device 1.

[0096] In S509, the camera system control unit 281 performs a first display unit display process for playing back and displaying the image data on the first display unit 285, and the user can check the image data played back and displayed on the first display unit 285. That is, the user's image checking posture is an image checking posture in a separated state. When the image data is played back and displayed on the first display unit 285 (display unit 2), the camera system control unit 281 advances the process to S510.

[0097] In S510, the operation detection unit 286 detects whether or not the voice record button 18 has been pressed, and if it detects that the voice record button 18 has been pressed, the process proceeds to S511. On the other hand, if the operation detection unit 286 does not detect that the voice record button 18 has been pressed in S510, the camera system control unit 281 ends the process.

[0098] In S511, the camera system control unit 281 determines whether or not the image shooting performed in S500 was silent shooting, and if it is determined that the image shooting performed in S500 was silent shooting, the process proceeds to S512.

[0099] In S512, the camera system control unit 281, which has received the voice memo recording operation signal, causes the audio control unit 282 to perform a fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process for increasing the sound collection sensitivity (recording volume level) of the user voice recording microphone 530, and then proceeds to the process at S513. In S512, the camera system control unit 281 functions as a fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment control means, and controls the audio control unit 282 as a sound collection sensitivity adjustment means to perform the fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process. The fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process is a process for increasing the recording volume level by a fifth predetermined ratio compared to the recording volume level at which voice memo recording is started when the user has moved his / her face away from the imaging device 1 and it is determined that the image shooting in S500 is not silent shooting (i.e., when NO in S511). The fifth predetermined ratio for increasing the recording volume level is, for example, a ratio between 20% and 30%. The fifth predetermined ratio for increasing the recording volume level is set to be greater than the third predetermined ratio for increasing the recording volume level.

[0100] In S511, if the camera system control unit 281 determines that the image capture performed in S500 was not silent capture, it advances the process to S513 and controls to start voice memo recording. In both cases of S513 which is advanced to after S511 and S513 which is advanced to after S512, the user can record his / her own voice while viewing the image being played back and displayed on the first display unit 285 while pressing the voice recording button 18. When the user releases the voice recording button 18, the camera system control unit 281 controls to end the voice memo recording.

[0101] As described above, if the user wants to use the voice memo function for a scene in which silent shooting has been performed, the third sound collection sensitivity adjustment process of S507 or the fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process of S512 has already been performed before recording, so even if the user speaks softly, the recorded volume level will increase. Both the third sound collection sensitivity adjustment process of S507 and the fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process of S512 are processes that increase the recording volume level.

[0102] Furthermore, when the user wishes to use the voice memo function in a scene where silent shooting has been performed and the user has moved his / her face away from the imaging device 1, the recorded volume level will increase even if the user speaks softly because the process of increasing the recording volume level has already been performed before recording. The process of increasing the recording volume level is the fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process of S512. As described above, the fifth predetermined ratio is set to be greater than the third predetermined ratio, so the fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process, which increases the recording volume level by a larger fifth predetermined ratio compared to the third sound collection sensitivity adjustment process, can increase the recording volume level more.

[0103] Therefore, even if the user records a voice memo in a silent shooting scene (i.e., a scene where noise is not desired) with the voice volume lowered out of consideration for the surroundings, the variation in the recorded volume can be reduced.

[0104] Furthermore, even if the user records a voice memo at a constant speaking volume with the image capture device 1 and the user's face close to each other, the process of lowering the recording volume level has already been performed before recording, so the recording volume level will be approximately the same as when the user's face is away from the image capture device 1. The process of lowering the recording volume level is the fourth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process of S508. Therefore, even if the user records a voice memo at a constant speaking volume regardless of the image confirmation posture, the variation in the recording volume can be reduced.

[0105] In addition, the user may use the operation member of the imaging device 1 to arbitrarily adjust the recording volume level in the third sound collection sensitivity adjustment process of S507, the fourth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process of S508, and the fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process of S512. The adjustment ratio of the recording volume level in the third sound collection sensitivity adjustment process (i.e., the third predetermined ratio for increasing the recording volume level) is not limited to the ratio of 10% to 20% described above. The adjustment ratio of the recording volume level in the fourth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process (i.e., the fourth predetermined ratio for decreasing the recording volume level) is not limited to the ratio of 10% to 30% described above. The adjustment ratio of the recording volume level in the fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process (i.e., the fifth predetermined ratio for increasing the recording volume level) is not limited to the ratio of 20% to 30% described above.

[0106] In the third embodiment as well, the user voice recording microphone 530 is provided on the rear side of the imaging device 1, but as long as it is a position where the user voice can be collected, the user voice recording microphone 530 may be located, for example, on the top, front or side of the imaging device 1. In the third embodiment as well, the user voice recording microphone 530 is used as a sound collection means (sound collection member) that records the user voice, but as long as it is a member that can collect the user voice, for example, the subject voice recording microphone 520 may be used as a sound collection member that records the subject's voice.

[0107] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention. In addition, the imaging device according to the embodiment of the present invention can be applied to imaging devices such as smartphones with a camera function, mobile terminals such as tablet terminals, digital video cameras, and digital audio players with an image playback function.

[0108] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of each of the above-mentioned embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors of a computer in the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 1. Imaging device 18 Audio Recording Button 220 Communication terminal 270 Lens device 272 Lens system control unit 273 Lens drive unit 274 Imaging Optical System 299 Optical axis 281 Camera system control unit 282 Audio control section 283 Image Processing Unit 284 Storage section 285 First display section 286 Operation detection unit 287 Shake detection unit 288 Image Stabilizer 289 Shutter mechanism 290 Image sensor 291 Second display section 292 Eyepiece detector 520 Microphone for recording subject voice 530 User voice recording microphone

Claims

1. An imaging device configured to be able to select a first imaging mode and a second imaging mode having a smaller shutter operation sound than the first imaging mode, A first display means; A second display means; an eye-placement detection means for detecting when a user has placed his / her eye on the second display means; and a display destination change control means for controlling a display destination of image data to be changed according to a detection result of the eye-placement detection means. A sound collection means for recording the user's voice; a synthesis processing control means for controlling a synthesis processing to attach the voice data recorded by the sound collecting means to the image data; an execution means for recording the sound by the sound collection means and also functioning as a start means for starting the sound recording; a third sound collection sensitivity adjustment control means for controlling a sound collection sensitivity adjustment process to adjust the sound collection sensitivity of the sound collection means when the eye proximity detection means detects a user's eye proximity detection state, the start means detects the start of the audio recording, and the image data to which the audio recording is to be added is image data obtained by photographing in the second photographing mode; and a fourth sound collection sensitivity adjustment control means for controlling a sound collection sensitivity adjustment process to adjust the sound collection sensitivity of the sound collection means when the eye proximity detection means detects a user's eye proximity detection state, the start means detects the start of the audio recording, and the image data to which the audio recording is to be added is image data obtained by photographing in the first photographing mode; and a fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment control means for controlling a sound collection sensitivity adjustment process to adjust the sound collection sensitivity of the sound collection means when the eye proximity detection means detects a user's eye proximity non-detection state, the start means detects the start of the audio recording, and the image data to which the audio recording is to be added is image data obtained by photographing in the second photographing mode; and An imaging device comprising:

2. The imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that the sound collection sensitivity adjustment process controlled by the third sound collection sensitivity adjustment control means is a third sound collection sensitivity adjustment process that increases the recording volume level of the sound collection means by a third predetermined rate.

3. 3. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the sound collection sensitivity adjustment process controlled by the fourth sound collection sensitivity adjustment control means is a fourth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process that reduces the recording volume level of the sound collection means by a fourth predetermined ratio.

4. The imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the sound collection sensitivity adjustment process controlled by the fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment control means is a fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment process that increases the recording volume level of the sound collection means by a fifth predetermined ratio.

5. 5. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the fifth predetermined ratio is set to be larger than the third predetermined ratio.

6. 6. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second display means is an electronic viewfinder.

7. 7. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the eye proximity detection means is disposed in the vicinity of the second display means.

8. 8. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the sound collecting means is disposed on a rear side of the imaging device.

9. A first photographing mode and a second photographing mode having a smaller shutter operation sound than the first photographing mode can be selected, A first display means; A second display means; an eye-close detection means for detecting that a user has placed his / her eye close to the second display means; and a sound collection means for recording the user's voice. an execution means for recording the sound by the sound collection means and also functioning as a start means for starting the sound recording; A control method for an imaging apparatus comprising: a display destination change control step of controlling so as to change a display destination of image data based on a detection result of the eye position detection means; a synthesis processing control step of controlling a synthesis processing for attaching the voice data recorded by the sound collecting means to the image data; a third sound collection sensitivity adjustment control step of controlling a sound collection sensitivity adjustment process to adjust the sound collection sensitivity of the sound collection means when the eye proximity detection means detects a user's eye proximity detection state, the start means detects the start of the audio recording, and the image data to which the audio recording is to be added is image data obtained by photographing in the second photographing mode; and a fourth sound collection sensitivity adjustment control step of controlling a sound collection sensitivity adjustment process to adjust the sound collection sensitivity of the sound collection means when the eye proximity detection means detects a user's eye proximity detection state, the start means detects the start of the sound recording, and the image data to which the sound recording is to be added is image data obtained by shooting in the first shooting mode; a fifth sound collection sensitivity adjustment control step of controlling a sound collection sensitivity adjustment process to adjust the sound collection sensitivity of the sound collection means when the eye proximity detection means detects a state in which the user's eye is not detected, and further when the start means detects the start of the audio recording, and the image data to which the audio recording is to be attached is image data obtained by shooting in the second shooting mode.

10. A program for causing a computer to execute each means of the imaging device described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

Images