JP5473201B2 - Imaging apparatus and control method thereof - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging device such as a digital camera to which an external strobe device can be attached.

  Traditionally, photography is performed under various conditions, such as shooting under natural daylight, so-called strobe shooting in which flash is emitted toward the subject in the dark, and so-called daytime synchro shooting in which natural light and flash are mixed. Has been done.

  In addition to normal shooting under normal conditions (hereinafter referred to as appropriate exposure) under the above-mentioned conditions, for example, for the purpose of photographers performing sophisticated photographic expressions, There is a case where so-called under-correction is performed for slightly exposing. Or, conversely, so-called over-correction may be performed in which exposure is more than appropriate exposure. In view of this point, various imaging devices and external strobe devices having a function of correcting exposure according to various intentions of a photographer have been proposed and are generally used.

  Patent Document 1 proposes an imaging apparatus including an operation member that can arbitrarily set a correction amount (hereinafter referred to as strobe light emission amount) for a strobe light emission amount or a light control calculation value of an external strobe device. . In this proposal, it is assumed that the external strobe device has a function capable of arbitrarily setting the strobe emission amount. In this case, it is proposed that the setting of the strobe light emission amount by the operation member on the imaging device side is made effective only when the strobe light emission amount is not set on the external strobe device side. According to this technology, even if the external strobe device does not have a strobe light emission amount setting function, the strobe light emission amount can be arbitrarily set by an operation on the imaging device side.

Further, Patent Document 2 proposes an imaging device having a display unit that performs display corresponding to the information based on the setting related to the external strobe device received from the external strobe device via the communication unit. According to this proposal, the display of the imaging device and the external strobe device can be matched, so that the strobe device and the imaging device are easy to use.
Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2003-43559 (second page, FIG. 3) JP 2000-258824 A (2nd page)

  If the external flash device has a function that allows the flash output to be set arbitrarily, the user can use the function to set the flash output that is provided on both the imaging device and the external flash device. is there. In Patent Document 1, the setting of the strobe light emission amount is made effective on the imaging device side only when the strobe light emission amount is not set on the external strobe device side. According to this method, the setting from the operation member of the external strobe device is always prioritized over the setting from the operation member of the imaging device, and the user-friendliness is easy to understand. In order to implement such a configuration, the setting value set from the operation member on the external strobe device held by the external strobe device itself and the setting value set from the operation member on the imaging device side are independently set. I have to remember. Otherwise, it should be set only once from the operation member on the imaging device side. The set value set from the operation member on the imaging device side may be stored in the external strobe device or in the imaging device, but may be connected to an imaging device that does not have such an operation member. It is more natural to store it on the imaging device side than to store it on the external strobe device side.

  In the configuration in which the setting on the external strobe device side is prioritized as described above, inconvenience may occur when the display function as proposed in Patent Document 2 is provided.

  The external strobe device can be attached and detached, for example, while the imaging device is in a shooting standby state. Assume that the user finishes shooting while wearing an external strobe device in the imaging standby state of the imaging apparatus and changing the setting of the flash emission amount using the operation member on the imaging apparatus side. At this time, the flash emission amount held on the external flash device side is 0, and the last set value is stored on the imaging device side. The value can be displayed on a display means provided in the imaging apparatus by a user operation.

  After that, it is assumed that the external strobe device is removed, another external strobe device that is not set to anything is mounted, and another attempt is made to take a picture. At this time, since the setting value of the flash emission amount that is held by the imaging device and before remounting remains, the old setting remains even though the user has installed an external flash device that has not been set. It becomes effective. Alternatively, when an external strobe device that has been set to a desired setting before being attached to the imaging device is installed, if the strobe emission amount happens to be the initial setting value, i.e., the setting has not been made, The set value stored on the imaging device side becomes valid. For this reason, there is a possibility that the user may take a picture while an unintended setting is valid.

  In order to solve the above problem, when communication with the external strobe device is interrupted in the imaging apparatus, the stored settings relating to the external strobe device can be cleared. However, if the user wants to take a picture without flash emission while the external strobe device is attached, the user may take a picture while temporarily turning off the power of the external strobe. After such an operation, when the power of the external strobe is turned on to perform strobe photography again, if the items set so far are cleared, it is also inconvenient.

(Object of invention)
The object of the present invention is that when the power supply of the external strobe device is turned off and then on again, the unexpected setting value becomes effective when the setting value is forgotten or when the external strobe device is remounted. It is an object of the present invention to provide an imaging device that can easily perform strobe shooting using an external strobe device with a desired setting value without causing any trouble.

In order to achieve the above object, an imaging apparatus according to the present invention is an imaging apparatus in which a light-emitting device can be mounted, and communication that performs communication between the light-emitting device and a mounting detection unit that detects the mounting of the light-emitting device. Means, setting means for setting control information relating to control of the light emitting device, storage means for storing the control information set by the setting means, and the mounting detection means in a state where the power of the imaging device is on When the change in the mounting state of the light emitting device is detected by the control unit, the control information stored in the storage unit is cleared, and the user turns on the light emitting device with respect to the light emitting device with the light emitting device mounted. If the operation from the on state so that the off is made, characterized in that it and a control means that is not clear the control information stored in said storage means

Similarly, in order to achieve the above object, an imaging device according to the present invention is an imaging device to which a light emitting device can be attached, and includes communication means for communicating with the light emitting device, and control information relating to control of the light emitting device. Setting means for setting, storage means for storing the control information set by the setting means, and power on the light emitting device being turned on by the user with respect to the light emitting device in a state where the power of the imaging device is on When operated from the state to the off state, the individual identification information of the light emitting device is acquired via the communication means, and the previously acquired individual identification information is different from the newly acquired individual identification information. Control means for clearing the control information stored in the storage means and not clearing the control information stored in the storage means when they are the same. And butterflies.

  According to the present invention, when the power of the external strobe device is turned off and then turned on again, the unexpected setting value becomes effective when the user forgets to set the setting value or re-installs the external strobe device. It is possible to provide an imaging apparatus that can easily perform strobe photography using an external strobe device with a desired set value without causing any trouble.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention is as shown in the following examples.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a circuit configuration of an imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 101 denotes an imaging lens, reference numeral 102 denotes a diaphragm mechanism unit that serves as a restriction and a shutter for the amount of incident light, and reference numeral 103 denotes a diaphragm drive unit that drives the diaphragm mechanism unit 102. Reference numeral 104 denotes a two-dimensional image sensor represented by a CCD or CMOS sensor, and 105 denotes an image sensor driving unit that drives the image sensor 104. 106 is a pre-stage signal processing unit that performs correlated double sampling and AGC (Automatic Gain Control), 107 is an A / D conversion unit that converts an analog signal into a digital signal, and 108 is a camera signal processing unit that processes the digitized signal. is there.

  109 is an image data compression / decompression unit that compresses and decompresses image data, 110 is an image memory, 111 is an image data recording / reproduction unit that records and reproduces compressed image data, and 112 is a recording medium such as a semiconductor memory. It is. Reference numeral 113 denotes a display driving unit that drives a display unit described later, and reference numeral 114 denotes a display unit represented by a liquid crystal or a CRT. Reference numeral 115 denotes a communication control unit that controls communication with the external strobe device 118 attached via the accessory shoe 117. Reference numeral 116 denotes an attachment detection unit for detecting the attachment of the external strobe device 118 provided in the accessory shoe 117, and 119 denotes an operation switch unit on which a shutter button or the like for providing a recording start trigger is arranged. Reference numeral 120 denotes a microprocessor unit (hereinafter referred to as MPU) that controls a series of operations, and includes a memory 120a that stores therein dimming setting values and the like.

  Next, the operation of the imaging apparatus having the above configuration will be described.

  When there is sufficient illuminance to image the subject, the light beam that has passed through the imaging lens 101 is controlled to an appropriate exposure by the aperture mechanism unit 102 and is photoelectrically converted by the imaging device 104. The image sensor 104 has its charge accumulation time controlled by the image sensor driver 105. The upstream signal processing unit 106 performs correlated double sampling and gain control, and the A / D conversion unit 107 converts the analog signal into a digital signal. The digital signal is subjected to processing such as auto white balance and contour enhancement in the camera signal processing unit 108. The signal processed by the camera signal processing unit 108 is transmitted to the MPU 120, and feedback control is performed based on the signal. When the external strobe device 118 is used, the communication control unit 115 establishes communication with the external strobe device 118 in order to obtain setting values set in the external strobe device 118 and to perform settings from the imaging device. doing. In the first place, whether to perform communication is determined based on the result detected by the attachment detection unit 116, which will be described later.

  In any of the above-described aperture control, charge accumulation time control, and gain control, the MPU 120 includes an aperture drive unit 103, an image sensor drive unit 105, and a pre-stage signal processing unit 106 so that a signal input to the MPU 120 has an appropriate value. Control is performed.

  At the time of recording, the signal processed by the camera signal processing unit 108 is supplied to the display driving unit 113, and a captured image is displayed on the display unit 114 in real time (live image). Simultaneously, recording starts from the operation switch unit 119. The trigger is input. Then, the MPU 120 sets the aperture mechanism unit 102 to the aperture value for shooting by the aperture drive unit 103, and sets the upstream signal processing unit 106 to the sensitivity for shooting.

  Further, the MPU 120 sets the diaphragm mechanism unit 102 to be closed by the diaphragm driving unit 103 in the accumulation time for photographing and to perform a shutter operation. Thereafter, exposure is performed for the accumulation time set by the image sensor 104, and an instruction signal synchronized with the start or end of the exposure period is supplied to the external strobe device 118 via the accessory shoe 117, and the light emitting unit of the external strobe device 118 Emits light.

  Light is shielded by closing the diaphragm mechanism 102 at the end of the accumulation time. The video signal read during light shielding is converted from an analog signal to a digital signal by the A / D conversion unit 107, supplied to the image data compression / decompression unit 109 through the camera signal processing unit 108. The image data compression / decompression unit 109 once stores the image data in the image memory 110, sequentially compresses the image data into a format such as JPEG, and outputs the compressed image data to the image data recording / reproducing unit 111. Is recorded.

  At the time of reproduction, image data is read from the recording medium 112 by the image data recording / reproducing unit 111 and supplied to the image data compression / decompression unit 109. The decompressed image data is temporarily stored in the image memory 110 and then supplied to the display drive unit 113, where it is reproduced as an image on the display unit 114.

  Here, the relationship between the external strobe device 118 and the imaging device will be described in detail.

  FIG. 2 shows a mounting detection sequence of the external strobe device 118 performed by the MPU 120. In step S201, it is determined whether or not the external strobe device 118 is attached (connected) by the attachment detection unit 116 constituted by a mechanical switch. As a result, if the attachment of the external strobe device 118 is not detected, the process proceeds to step S207, and there is no external strobe device.

  On the other hand, if the attachment of the external strobe device 118 is detected, the process proceeds to step S202, and the communication control unit 115 starts communication with the external strobe device 118 via the accessory shoe 117. Then, in the next step S203, it is determined whether or not a desired reply has been received from the external strobe device 118. If there is no reply, the process proceeds to step S208, and the external strobe device 118 is not turned on or is not compatible with communication. Assume that it is an external strobe device.

  If a desired reply is received from the external strobe device 118, the process proceeds to step S204, and it is assumed that communication is established. In the next step S205, various communications are performed to acquire information such as what function the attached external flash device 118 has. If it is determined that the external strobe device 118 is not compatible, the process advances to step S209 to determine that the strobe is not compatible. On the other hand, if it is determined by communication that the external strobe device 118 has one or more compatible functions, the process proceeds to step S206, and it is assumed that the external strobe device 118 is compatible. At this point, the display unit 114 may display that the external strobe device 118 can emit light.

  According to the sequence shown in FIG. 2, in the state where the corresponding external strobe device 118 capable of emitting light according to the instruction from the imaging device is mounted, the external strobe device 118 can be used to perform strobe photography.

  Regarding light emission control in the imaging operation of the imaging apparatus, two light emission modes are provided.

  One is an automatic dimming mode. First, the MPU 120 calculates the light emission amount necessary for shooting (at the time of main light emission) from the increase in the video signal obtained by pre-flashing the external strobe device 118 from the video signal obtained under external light. The result of the calculation is serially communicated through the accessory shoe 117 together with a predetermined command signal from the communication control unit 115, and the automatic light control mode ("auto" in the menu display) is caused to emit light according to the light emission amount calculated at the time of shooting. It is. In the program mode and auto mode of the imaging device, and in the scene mode in which the imaging device automatically performs appropriate exposure and white balance control in various scenes, light emission is usually performed in this automatic light control mode.

  The other is a fixed amount light emission mode (“manual” in the menu display) for emitting light as fixed amount light emission that can express the light emission amount as a guide number. This is assumed to be used in a scene where the user wants to emit a strobe with an arbitrary guide number in the manual mode or aperture priority mode of the imaging apparatus. These light emission modes can be set from the user interface (hereinafter referred to as camera UI) of the image pickup apparatus including the operation switch unit 119 and the display unit 114. However, the external strobe device 118 may be provided with a switching member. is there.

  The “strobe control” item can be selected from the menu on the camera UI. FIG. 3 shows an example of a menu screen displayed on the display unit 114 when the MENU button of the operation switch unit 119 of the camera UI is pressed.

  One or more selection items are listed, and for example, a strobe control item, a camera shake correction item, a self-timer setting item, and the like can be selected. By using the up and down buttons of the cross key included in the operation switch unit 119, an item to be set can be selected. Currently, the strobe control item is selected. In this state, by pressing the SET button included in the operation switch unit 119, it is possible to proceed to the setting screen for the selected item. Regarding the menu structure, the setting value and setting state currently set for the item are displayed next to the selected item on the menu screen, and the setting is changed with the horizontal button of the cross key included in the operation switch unit 119. The structure which can be used may be sufficient. Further, an item that advances to the next setting screen depending on the selected item and an item whose setting can be changed with the horizontal button of the cross key may be mixed.

  When the SET button included in the operation switch unit 119 is pressed in the state shown in FIG. 3, a setting screen for strobe control items is displayed. At this time, if it is determined in step S207 in FIG. 2 that there is no external strobe device, an internal strobe menu for setting the light emission of the internal strobe device (not shown) is displayed. Here, for example, it is possible to set the flash mode setting, dimming correction value setting or fixed flash amount setting, and whether the first curtain sync that emits light at the start of exposure or the second curtain sync that emits light just before the end of exposure. . Furthermore, it is a setting of whether or not internal strobe shooting is permitted in shooting at an exposure time longer than a predetermined exposure time. When the strobe control item is selected on the camera UI, if the corresponding external strobe device is selected in step S206 of FIG. 2, a strobe setting menu for the external strobe device is displayed. What can be set here is, for example, a setting of wireless flash, which is a function that can be performed only by an external strobe device, to the strobe control menu item for the internal strobe device.

  When the strobe control item is selected on the camera UI, if the power is turned off or the external strobe device is not supported in step S208 or step S209 of FIG. 2, no desired setting can be made on the external strobe device 118. High nature. Therefore, the strobe control menu is not displayed. However, if the shutter button for providing a recording start trigger included in the operation switch unit 119 is pressed at this time, there is a possibility that an external strobe device capable of emitting light is mounted even if communication with the imaging device cannot be performed. Therefore, the internal strobe device does not emit light, and a light emission instruction signal is given to the external strobe device 118 via the accessory shoe 117 in synchronization with the exposure timing. The menu screen including the flash control menu is configured such that when the shutter button is pressed in a displayed state, the menu display is turned off and a live image is displayed.

  The operation switch unit 119 includes a FUNC button in addition to the MENU button. When the FUNC button is pressed, the FUNC menu is displayed on the display unit 114.

  4A shows a live image displayed on the display unit 114 before the FUNC button is pressed, and FIG. 4B shows a state in which the FUNC menu is displayed by pressing the FUNC button. An example is shown. In FIG. 4B, items A to E are displayed vertically in the left corner of the display unit 114. This is an item of the FUNC menu, and includes, for example, white balance setting, photometry method, and strobe dimming correction. In FIG. 4B, symbols such as A to E are used, but icons indicating menu items may be displayed. The selection item can be changed by operating the up and down buttons of the cross key included in the operation switch unit 119. Here, it is shown that the item C is currently selected.

  Similarly, in FIG. 4B, a scale-like one is displayed at the lower corner of the display unit 114. This is a display for setting the currently selected C FUNC menu item, and indicates that the third setting value from the right is currently selected. The display for selecting the setting value is different for each FUNC menu item in the left corner, and may be displayed in a form suitable for selection of the setting value relating to the item, and is included in the operation switch unit 119 for selecting the setting value. The left and right buttons on the cross key can be operated. As can be seen from FIG. 4B, the FUNC menu is displayed superimposed on the live image, and it is easy to shoot without leaving the FUNC menu display. The display is configured not to disappear.

  FIG. 5 shows an example of the strobe control menu screen. The selected items of the strobe control menu are listed, and the set values and setting states currently set for the items are displayed beside them. The setting item can be selected with the up and down buttons of the cross key included in the operation switch unit 119 and the setting can be changed with the left and right buttons. The dimming correction setting item is currently selected, and the current setting value is set to +1 (the setting that emits light +1 step brighter than the dimming calculation result). A triangle is displayed next to the setting value and the left and right buttons This indicates that the setting value can be changed. Immediately before displaying the strobe control menu with the corresponding external strobe device 118 attached, the MPU 120 issues an instruction to the communication control unit 115 to communicate with the external strobe device 118 and is currently set in the external strobe device 118. Get the set value. The external strobe menu displays the acquired current setting of the external strobe device 118 as the current set value.

  Some external strobe devices 118 include an operation member. For example, an external strobe device that can perform light emission mode setting, fixed light emission amount setting or dimming correction setting, synchronization setting, and the like is assumed. The setting value currently set in the external strobe device 118 that is described to be acquired through communication with the external strobe device when the strobe control menu is displayed is, for example, a value previously set from the strobe control menu or the FUNC menu of the imaging device. is there. Alternatively, the external strobe device is set by an operation member provided in the external strobe device 118.

  Here, only for the light adjustment correction value, the setting value set by the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 is always prioritized. Only when the light control correction value is not set (0 is set) by the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118, communication from the imaging device, that is, the strobe control menu or the FUNC menu of the imaging device. It is assumed that setting from is possible.

  FIG. 6 shows a state in which the strobe control menu is displayed in a state where the external strobe device 118 is mounted in the external strobe device 118 and the imaging device having the above-described configuration. FIG. 6 shows a case in which the external flash device 118 has been set with a dimming correction value +2 (a setting that emits light 2 steps brighter than the dimming calculation result) by an operation member provided in the external flash device 118. ing. At this time, the dimming correction setting item is grayed out. In this state, the user cannot select the dimming correction setting item by using the up / down buttons of the operation switch unit 119. In FIG. 5, the dimming correction setting item has been selected. When the dimming correction value is not set by the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 (0 is set), the dimming correction setting item can be selected as shown in FIG. The setting can be changed with the left and right buttons 119. When the dimming correction value is set from the strobe control menu of the image pickup apparatus, it is transmitted to the external strobe device 118 through the communication control unit 115, and the set value is held in the memory 120a in the MPU 120 of the image pickup apparatus. At this time, if the external strobe device 118 has a display unit, a symbol indicating that a dimming correction value is set may be displayed.

  While the strobe control menu screen is displayed, the communication control unit 115 periodically communicates with the external strobe device 118 to monitor the presence or absence of a setting change by an operation member provided in the external strobe device 118. When there is a setting change by an operation member provided in the external strobe device 118, the strobe control menu screen display is cleared and the previous menu screen display is restored. Accordingly, the flash control menu display disappears even when the flash control correction is set from the flash control menu and the flash control setting is subsequently changed by the operation member provided in the external flash device 118. At this time, since the setting value set by the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 is always prioritized, that value becomes the light adjustment correction setting value. Therefore, when the strobe control menu is displayed again, the dimming correction setting item is grayed out, and the setting value set by the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 is displayed.

  In addition, the setting value set from the previous strobe control menu stored in the memory in the imaging apparatus is also overwritten by the setting value acquired from the external strobe device 118. Accordingly, when the flash control value is set to 0 again by the operation member provided in the external flash device 118, the flash control menu disappears by the operation, but when the flash control menu is displayed again, the flash control value is 0. It is in a state that can be set. The setting value stored in the memory in the imaging device is overwritten with the setting value acquired from the external strobe device 118. As a result, it is possible to prevent the old setting from being reflected against the user's intention when the light adjustment correction is performed using the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 and then returned to 0.

  Even during the display of the FUNC menu screen, the communication control unit 115 periodically communicates with the external strobe device 118 to monitor the presence or absence of a setting change by an operation member provided in the external strobe device 118. Unlike the menu screen, the FUNC menu is not deleted even when the setting is changed by the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118. Items relating to the strobe in the FUNC menu include a dimming correction setting item and a flash amount setting item. The flash mode can be set using the flash control menu or the operation member provided in the external flash device 118. However, the flash exposure compensation setting item is displayed when the flash mode is automatic flash mode, and the flash level is set when the flash mode is fixed. The item is displayed. When the FUNC menu screen is displayed and the current setting is the automatic light control mode, and the light control mode has been selected and the flash mode has been switched to the fixed flash mode by the operating member of the external strobe device 118 The dimming correction setting item is switched to the light emission amount setting item.

  Conversely, when the fixed light emission mode is switched to the dimming light emission mode, the light emission amount setting item is similarly switched to the dimming correction setting item. In addition, while the dimming correction setting item or the light emission amount setting item is selected, the power of the external strobe device 118 is turned off or the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 is changed to a non-compatible light emission mode. Suppose that. In this case, the selected dimming correction setting item or light emission amount setting item is grayed out, and the setting cannot be changed. When the external flash device 118 is detached from the accessory shoe 117 while the light adjustment correction setting item or the light emission amount setting item is selected, the control is switched to the light adjustment correction setting item or the light emission amount setting item of the internal strobe.

  In the description of the strobe control menu, it has been described in detail that the setting value set by the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 is always prioritized regarding the dimming correction value, but the same applies to the FUNC menu. is there. The display of the dimming correction setting item in the FUNC menu will be exemplified with reference to FIGS.

  Assume that the setting item C in FIG. 7 indicates a dimming correction setting item. FIG. 7A shows a state in which the external strobe device 118 is attached to the imaging device, the FUNC menu is opened, and the dimming correction setting item is selected. At this time, the external strobe device is in the dimming light emission mode, and is not set in particular, and the dimming correction setting from the FUNC menu is possible.

  FIG. 7B shows a state in which the dimming correction value is set from the FUNC menu. A symbol indicating that a dimming correction value has been set from the imaging device is displayed on the display unit provided in the external strobe device 118. The set dimming correction value is held in the memory 120a in the imaging apparatus.

  FIG. 7C illustrates a case where the light control correction value +2 is set by operating the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 from the state of FIG. 7B. At this time, since the setting value (dimming correction value) set by the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 is always prioritized with respect to the light adjustment correction value, the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 is given priority. The set value set by is valid. Therefore, the set value is also reflected in the FUNC menu display on the imaging apparatus side. In addition, since a setting other than 0 is set from the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118, the dimming correction value cannot be set from the FUNC menu on the imaging device side, and is grayed out. The setting values set in FIG. 7B and stored in the memory 120a in the imaging apparatus are also overwritten by the setting values acquired from the external strobe device 118.

  FIG. 7D shows a case where the dimming correction value is returned to 0 using the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 again from the state of FIG. Since the setting from the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 has become 0, it is possible to set the dimming correction value from the FUNC menu on the imaging device side again. At this time, the set value set in FIG. 7B is invalid and 0 is indicated.

  As described above, the display is configured not to disappear even when shooting is performed. Further, even if the setting is changed with the operation member provided in the external strobe device 118 as described above, it does not disappear. Therefore, the user can easily continue shooting while changing the setting.

  When taking a picture without lighting the external strobe device 118 with the external strobe device 118 attached, this can be realized by turning off the power of the external strobe device 118 and taking a picture. For example, a user who is shooting while changing various settings sets a dimming correction value from the FUNC menu and performs shooting. Then, this time, when the external strobe device 118 is turned off, shooting is performed without emitting light, and the power is turned on again, it is inconvenient if the dimming correction value set immediately before in the FUNC menu is invalid. . On the other hand, when shooting while replacing a plurality of external strobe devices, it is inconvenient if the previously set dimming correction value is reflected in the newly installed external strobe device.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, when communication with the external strobe device 118 is interrupted by the communication control unit 115 or when communication is possible again after the communication is stopped, the dimming stored in the memory 120a in the imaging device. The correction value is held as it is. However, when the attachment detection unit 116 detects that the external strobe device 118 has been inserted / removed, the configuration is cleared. The dimming correction value stored in the memory 120a in the imaging device may be cleared when the attachment detection unit 116 detects the removal of the external strobe device 118, or when the device is attached again from the removed state. It may be when it is detected that

  FIG. 8 shows the detection sequence of the external strobe device 118 shown in FIG. 2 with a process for clearing the dimming correction value stored in the memory 120a in the imaging device when a change in the external strobe device 118 is detected. A sequence is shown.

  Steps S801 to S809 are the same as steps S201 to S209 in FIG. Here, in order to detect that the external strobe device 118 has changed from the removed state to the attached state, “external presence flag = present” and “external presence flag = none” for indicating the current state. "Is prepared.

  If it is determined in step S801 that the external strobe device 118 is not mounted as a result of the determination of whether or not the external strobe device 118 is mounted by the mounting detector 116 configured by a mechanical switch, the process advances to step S813. In step S813, since it is detected that the external strobe device 118 is not attached, “external flag = none” is set.

  When the attachment detection unit 116 detects that the external strobe device 118 is attached, the process proceeds to step S810, and an external flag is determined. As a result of the determination, if “external flag = present”, the processing from step S802 is immediately executed.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that “external flag = none”, this indicates that the state has changed in the current detection, and that the external strobe device 118 has been newly installed. This is because if it is detected in the previous detection that the external strobe device 118 is attached, the process proceeds to step S811, where “external flag = present” is set. When it is determined that the external strobe device 118 has been newly installed due to a change in state, the process proceeds to step S811 as described above, and “external presence flag = present” is set. The dimming correction value stored in the memory 120a is cleared.

  Each of the external strobe devices has a different ID, and the ID can be acquired by the imaging device through communication with the external strobe device. In this case, the memory 120a stores only when the ID currently stored in the imaging device (the ID of the external strobe device that was previously attached and removed) and the ID newly acquired from the external strobe device are different. The dimming correction value being used may be cleared. With such a configuration, even when an external strobe device connected via a device such as an off-camera shoe cord is replaced with another external strobe device, an external strobe attached directly to the accessory shoe 117 is used. The behavior is the same as when the device is changed. Also, the setting value remains even when the user accidentally removes the external strobe device and attaches it again.

  Also, the dimming correction value stored in the memory 120a in the imaging device is cleared when the imaging device is turned off or when the imaging device is turned on. By doing this, it is possible to prevent past dimming correction values not intended by the user from becoming effective when the external strobe device 118 is attached and shooting is performed after a few days or more.

  The imaging device in the above embodiment has the following configuration.

  A mounting detection unit 116 for detecting the mounting of the external strobe device 118 and a communication control unit 115 for communicating with the external strobe device 118 are provided. Furthermore, an operation switch unit 119 for setting a setting value for the external strobe device 118 via the communication control unit 115, and a memory 120a for storing the setting value (dimming correction value) set by the operation switch unit 119. And have. Furthermore, it has MPU120 which hold | maintains or clears the setting value memorize | stored in the memory 120a by the communication state with the external strobe device 118. FIG.

  Specifically, the MPU 120 performs the following control. When communication with the external strobe device 118 is possible by the communication control unit 115, communication with the external strobe device 118 by the communication control unit 115 is temporarily stopped, or communication is possible again after the communication is stopped. To do. In such a case, the set value stored in the memory 120a is stored as it is. When the attachment detection unit 116 detects that the external strobe device 118 has been removed, the setting value is cleared.

  Alternatively, when communication with the external strobe device 118 is possible by the communication control unit 115, the MPU 120 is once disconnected from the communication with the external strobe device 118 by the communication control unit 115 or again after the communication is stopped. Assume that communication is possible. In such a case, the set value stored in the memory 120a is stored as it is. When the attachment detector 116 detects that the external strobe device 118 is attached, the set value is cleared.

  Alternatively, when the MPU 120 is changed from a state in which communication with the external strobe device 118 by the communication control unit 115 is impossible, the MPU 120 is connected to the external strobe device 118 from the external strobe device 118 via the communication control unit 115. An ID which is individual identification information of the device 118 is acquired. When the previously stored ID and the newly acquired ID are different, the communication control unit 115 sets the operation switch unit 119 and stores it in the memory 120a when communication with the external flash device 118 is possible. Clear the set value.

  The operation switch unit 119 can set the external strobe device 118 via the communication control unit 115 only when the external strobe device 118 is in a state where setting values can be set from the imaging device. .

  Further, when the setting of the external strobe device 118 is changed by an operation member provided in the external strobe device 118, the MPU 120 acquires the set value via the communication control unit 115. Then, the setting value stored in the memory 120a is updated to the acquired setting value setting value. The operation switch unit 119 can set the external strobe device 118 via the communication control unit 115 only when the external strobe device 118 is in a state where setting values can be set from the imaging device. It is. Note that when the external strobe device 118 is in a state in which the setting value can be set from the imaging device, the setting value by the operation member is zero.

  By using the imaging apparatus as described above, when the external strobe device 118 is turned off and then turned on again, the setting value is unexpected when the setting value is forgotten or when the external strobe device is remounted. Will not be enabled. Therefore, it is possible to easily perform flash photography using an external flash device with a desired set value.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation when detecting the mounting of an external strobe device according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the menu screen in one Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the FUNC menu in one Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of the flash control menu screen in one Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a strobe control menu screen when the light control correction value is set with the external strobe device concerning one Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the behavior at the time of the light control correction value operation in the FUNC menu display in one Example of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process which clears the light control correction value memorize | stored in the imaging device at the time of the mounting change detection of the external strobe apparatus concerning one Example of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

114 Display Unit 115 Communication Control Unit 116 Attachment Detection Unit 117 Accessory Shoe 118 External Strobe Device 119 Operation Switch Unit 120 Microprocessor Unit (MPU)

Claims (6)

An imaging device to which a light emitting device can be attached,
A mounting detection means for detecting the mounting of the light emitting device;
A communication means for communicating with the light emitting device;
Setting means for setting control information relating to control of the light emitting device;
Storage means for storing the control information set by the setting means;
In a state where the power supply of the imaging device is on, when the change of the mounting state of the light emitting device is detected by the mounting detection unit, the control information stored in the storage unit is cleared and the light emitting device is mounted And a control unit that does not clear the control information stored in the storage unit when the user operates the light-emitting device so that the power source of the light-emitting device is switched from an on state to an off state. An imaging apparatus comprising: An imaging device to which a light emitting device can be attached,
A communication means for communicating with the light emitting device;
Setting means for setting control information relating to control of the light emitting device;
Storage means for storing the control information set by the setting means;
When the power source of the imaging device is turned on and the user operates the light emitting device from the on state to the off state, the light emission is performed via the communication unit. The device identification information is acquired, and when the previously acquired individual identification information is different from the newly acquired individual identification information, the control information stored in the storage unit is cleared, and when they are the same, stored in the storage unit. And a control means that does not clear the control information. The said control means clears the said control information memorize | stored in the said memory | storage means, when operation which changes the control information regarding the control of the said light-emitting device with respect to the said light-emitting device is made by the user. Item 3. The imaging device according to Item 1 or 2.   4. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit clears the control information stored in the storage unit when a power state of the image pickup apparatus is changed. 5. A method for controlling an imaging apparatus, which can be mounted with a light emitting device and has a communication means for communicating with the light emitting device,
A mounting detection step for detecting the mounting of the light emitting device;
A setting step for setting control information relating to control of the light emitting device;
A storage step for storing the control information set in the setting step;
In the state where the power supply of the imaging device is on, when the change of the mounting state of the light emitting device is detected in the mounting detection step, the control information stored in the storage step is cleared and the light emitting device is mounted A control step that does not clear the control information stored in the storing step when the user performs an operation on the light emitting device so that the power of the light emitting device is switched from an on state to an off state. A control method for an imaging apparatus, comprising: A method for controlling an imaging apparatus, which can be mounted with a light emitting device and has a communication means for communicating with the light emitting device,
A setting step for setting control information relating to control of the light emitting device;
A storage step for storing the control information set in the setting step;
In a state where the power of the imaging device is turned on, if the user performs an operation on the light emitting device so that the power of the light emitting device is turned off from the on state , the communication device The individual identification information of the light emitting device is acquired, and when the previously acquired individual identification information is different from the newly acquired individual identification information, the control information stored in the storage step is cleared. And a control step for not clearing the stored control information.

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