JPH04320241A - Photograph printing method - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To obtain a photograph printing method by which a print with proper density is obtained from an image photographed by a camera capable of automatically deciding exposure at a high yield. CONSTITUTION:In the case of printing a negative film where the image is photographed by using the AF function and the AE function of the camera, printing processing with average exposure is performed. Namely, photometry is performed with respect to plural image frames of the negative film to obtain the average density of an entire image plane or a partial image plane, and the image frame photographed at photographing magnification equal to or above a specified value is stored(step 112 or 122). Next, the average value of the average density of the plural image frames of the negative film is calculated and printing exposure is decided by using the average value(step 126 and 128). The printing processing is performed to the image frame where the image is photographed at the photographing magnification equal to or above the specified value with the printing exposure(step 132), and the printing processing is performed to the image frame where the image is photographed at the smaller photographing magnification than the specified value after calculating the printing exposure from each average density(step 134 and 136).

Description

[Detailed description of the invention]

0001

[Industrial Application Field] The present invention relates to a photographic printing method, and more particularly to a photographic printing method in which image frames of a film are photometered, a printing exposure amount is automatically determined based on the photometric value, and the image frames are printed onto photographic paper. Regarding.

0002

[Prior Art] In automatic printers that automatically print images recorded on film onto photographic paper, each image on the film is photometered to determine the cumulative transmission density of the entire screen of each image, and this cumulative transmission density is combined with a standard. Slope control and color correction are performed based on the difference in density (for example, the density of an eyeball negative), the printing exposure amount is determined for each image, and printing processing is performed. As a result, variations in exposure during photographing and color feria are corrected, and prints with appropriate density and color balance can be obtained. Note that some methods use the average value of cumulative transmission densities of a large number of images as the reference density.

On the other hand, the so-called multi-point photometry method (divided photometry method,
Various technical improvements have been made in cameras that automatically determine exposure using the evaluative metering method, multi-pattern metering method, or multi-metering method (for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 57-42026, 1-280737, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2-84628, etc.), exposure accuracy has been significantly improved, and exposure variations among various scenes have been significantly reduced.

0004

[Problem to be Solved by the Invention] However, when a film on which images have been taken by the camera that automatically determines exposure is set in the auto printer and subjected to printing processing, the cumulative transmission density of each image is Since the printing exposure amount for each image is determined based on the exposure, the printing exposure amount may be set with excessive compensation for image frames with little exposure variation, and prints with appropriate density may not be obtained. Ta. In particular, when photographing at a high magnification, the main subject generally occupies a large area of the entire screen, so the exposure accuracy increases, and the image is photographed with accurate exposure based on the main subject. Therefore, the amount of correction of the printing exposure amount for variations in exposure may be small. However, with automatic printers, it is difficult to determine the main subject of an image, so as mentioned above, the printing exposure amount is calculated based on the cumulative transmission density of the image, but the cumulative transmission density is affected by the density of the background area. For example, if the density of the background is high, it will be determined that overexposure has occurred, and excessive correction will be made to increase the printing exposure amount. As a result,
The density of the main subject in the finished print is higher than expected.

The present invention has been made in consideration of the above facts, and provides a photographic printing method that can obtain prints with appropriate density at a high yield from images taken with a camera that automatically determines exposure. The purpose is to obtain.

[0006]

[Means for solving the problem] The invention according to claim 1 includes:
When printing a plurality of image frames taken on film onto photographic paper using a camera that has the function of determining exposure by metering different areas on the subject using a plurality of photometering elements, each of the plurality of image frames is photometered. The printing exposure amount is determined based on the average value of the photometric values, and image frames photographed at a photographing magnification of a predetermined value or higher are printed onto photographic paper at the printing exposure amount.

[0007] The invention as claimed in claim 2 is a method for printing a plurality of image frames shot on a film onto photographic paper using a camera having a function of determining exposure by measuring light of different areas on a subject using a plurality of photometering elements. , each image frame photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value is photometered, the printing exposure amount is determined based on the average value of the photometric values, and the image frame photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value is calculated using the printing exposure amount. It is characterized by being printed on photographic paper.

[0008] Furthermore, it is preferable that the camera is a camera that determines exposure when the main subject is in focus.

Furthermore, among the photometric values of a plurality of image frames, the average value of the photometric values can be determined by excluding the photometric values whose values are outside a predetermined range, and the printing exposure amount can be determined based on the average value.

[0010] The invention according to claim 5 is a method for printing a plurality of image frames shot on a film onto photographic paper using a camera having a function of determining exposure by measuring light of different areas on a subject using a plurality of photometering elements. , metering each of the plurality of image frames and grouping them according to shooting conditions;
Calculate the average value of the photometric values for each group, calculate the printing exposure amount for each group based on the average value for each group, and calculate the image frames taken at a shooting magnification equal to or higher than the predetermined value for each group for each group. It is characterized by printing onto photographic paper with a printing exposure of .

[0011]

[Operation] The AE function of the camera has been developed with the aim of obtaining fully satisfactory results even when photographing color reversal film. With color reversal film, exposure variations during shooting cannot be corrected for each frame in post-processing, so AE can always obtain the correct exposure.
Requires functionality. For this purpose, accurate brightness measurement of the main subject is extremely important. The above goal can be achieved if the brightness of the main subject near the focus can be measured when the main subject is in focus. These techniques are disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 56-102837.
No. 1, JP-A-56-102838, JP-A-Sho 61
It is known from Publication No.-38939. However, when the main subject becomes smaller, it becomes difficult for the camera to always accurately measure the brightness near the focal point. That is, when the main subject becomes smaller than the photometry area of the camera, the photometry accuracy deteriorates. This problem reduces the camera's split metering area,
This problem can be solved by increasing the number of photometric points. However, when the divided photometry areas are made smaller, the sensitivity of the sensor decreases, making it difficult to measure in dark places. Furthermore, there are problems such as increased cost, and the above method has its limitations.

On the other hand, when the size of the main subject (which changes depending on the photographic magnification) is equal to or larger than the photometry area of the camera, the method of determining exposure from the brightness measured when the main subject is in focus is as follows: This is extremely preferable since it is possible to obtain the optimum exposure that reflects the photographer's intention with respect to the main subject.

On the other hand, with a printer, it is easier to increase the number of density measurement points on the screen than with a camera, but it is extremely difficult to automatically detect the main subject. Therefore, when determining printing exposure conditions by the printer alone, the main subject remains unknown and the printer must rely on the density measurement data of the screen.

[0014] Furthermore, the camera can measure the brightness of the main subject and its surroundings. On the other hand, with a printer, the contrast of the screen can be determined by density measurement, but the brightness value at the time of photographing cannot be determined.

[0015]Although it is possible to measure the color balance of the screen in printers by dividing the screen, it is extremely difficult to determine the color balance of the main subject. In this way, cameras and printers each have advantages and disadvantages. The present applicant has studied ways to reduce variations in print density by mutually compensating for the shortcomings of cameras and printers, and has accomplished the present invention.

[0016] According to the invention as claimed in claim 1, the camera has a function of determining exposure by measuring light of different areas on a subject using a plurality of photometering elements, and for example, the camera has a function of determining exposure by measuring light of different areas on a subject using a plurality of photometering elements. Each image is photometered, a printing exposure amount is determined based on the average value of the photometric values, and image frames photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value are printed onto photographic paper at the printing exposure amount. With cameras that determine exposure by measuring light in different areas on the subject using multiple photometric elements, there is a high probability that images taken at a magnification higher than a predetermined value will be taken with the correct exposure, resulting in variations in exposure. small. For this reason, by photometering each of multiple image frames and printing them with a printing exposure amount determined based on the average value of the photometric values, image frames taken at a shooting magnification of a predetermined value or higher are printed at the appropriate density. It is possible to obtain prints with appropriate density at a high yield. Note that the photographing magnification can be determined from the lens focal length and photographing distance. In addition, by using the average value of the photometric values of multiple image frames taken on one film as the average value, the average value can be used to compensate for variations in exposure from camera to camera, sensitivity variations from film to film, etc. A more appropriate printing exposure amount can be obtained.

In the invention as set forth in claim 2, each image frame photographed at a photographing magnification of a predetermined value or higher is photometered, the printing exposure amount is determined based on the average value of the photometric values, and the image frame is photographed at a photographing magnification of a predetermined value or higher. The photographed image frame is printed on photographic paper at the above-mentioned printing exposure amount. Since image frames photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value have less variation in exposure, a more appropriate average value of photometric values can be obtained. Therefore, image frames photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value can be printed with appropriate density, and prints with appropriate density can be obtained at a high yield.

Furthermore, the present invention is particularly suitable for printing an image taken with a camera that determines exposure and locks the exposure when the main subject is in focus. In the above-mentioned camera, since images are taken with an exposure based on the main subject, the amount of correction of the printing exposure amount for variations in exposure becomes even smaller. Therefore, image frames photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value can be printed with appropriate density, and prints with appropriate density can be obtained at a higher yield.

[0019] Among the photometric values of a plurality of image frames, the average value of the photometric values can be determined by excluding the photometric values whose values are outside a predetermined range, and the printing exposure amount can be determined based on the average value. This makes it possible to eliminate the influence of, for example, under-negative or over-negative on the average value, so that a more appropriate average value of photometric values can be obtained. Therefore, image frames photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value can be printed with appropriate density, and prints with appropriate density can be obtained at a high yield.

In the invention as set forth in claim 5, each of the plurality of image frames is photometered, and the plurality of image frames are measured under different shooting conditions.
For example, group them according to the shooting light source, time of day, season, etc., calculate the average photometric value for each group, calculate the printing exposure amount for each group based on the average value for each group, and Image frames photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value for each group are printed on photographic paper at a printing exposure amount for each group. As a result, an appropriate average value according to the shooting conditions can be obtained from the photometric values of image frames under similar shooting conditions for each group. It is possible to print, and prints with appropriate density can be obtained at a high yield.

[0021]

[Embodiments] [First Embodiment] A first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows a printer to which the present invention can be applied.

As shown in FIG. 2, in this printer, a large number of negative films 20 on which a plurality of images have been taken by a camera (not shown) are spliced together, and are set after being developed, bleached, fixed, washed, and dried. Ru. Further, the back surface of the negative film 20 is coated with a magnetic material (not shown), and the leading edge of the negative film 20 is provided with a magnetic track S1 on which information can be magnetically recorded. A track S2 is provided.

It has a so-called AF function that automatically focuses by measuring the photographing distance (distance from the lens to the subject) using a distance-measuring element, and also has a so-called AF function that measures the light of different areas on the subject using a plurality of photometric elements. The so-called A, which determines exposure using a multi-point metering method.
When an image is photographed on the negative film 20 by a camera equipped with the E function, information indicating that the image was photographed using the AF function and the AE function is magnetically recorded in the magnetic track S1 by the camera. Information about each negative film 20, such as the type of negative film 50 and the type of camera that took the image, is also magnetically recorded. Further, the focal length and shooting distance of the lens at the time of photographing are detected by the camera, and the information is magnetically recorded on the magnetic track S2 corresponding to the photographed image frame 20A.

Note that instead of the information indicating that an image has been taken using the AF function and AE function, information instructing execution of a printing process using average exposure, which will be described later, may be recorded. Further, the AE function may be any one of aperture priority AE, shutter speed priority AE, and program AE. Further, as the camera equipped with the AF function and the AE function, a type that determines exposure and locks the exposure when the focus is locked is preferable.

As shown in FIG. 1, the printer is equipped with a negative carrier 12 for conveying a negative film 20 to a printing section, and below the negative carrier 12 is a mirror box 18.
and a lamp house 10 equipped with a halogen lamp. A light control filter 60 is arranged between the mirror box 18 and the lamp house 10. As is well known, the light control filter 60 is composed of three color correction filters: a C filter, an M filter, and a Y filter.

Above the negative carrier 12 is a lens 22.
, a black shutter 24 and a color paper 26 are arranged in this order, and are illuminated from the lamp house 10 to a dimming filter 60, a mirror box 18 and a negative film 20.
The light rays that have passed through the lens 22 pass through the color paper 26.
It is configured to be imaged onto the image.

A two-dimensional image sensor 30 is arranged in a direction oblique to the optical axis of the above-mentioned imaging optical system and at a position where the density of the image frame 20A of the negative film 20 can be measured. The two-dimensional image sensor 30 divides the negative image into a large number of regions and measures each of R, G, and B regions. Further, the magnetic tracks S1 and S2 are provided on the upstream side of the negative carrier 12.
A reading head 52 is provided correspondingly. The image sensor 30 and the reading head 52 are connected to a control circuit 28 made up of a microcomputer. A keyboard 32 is connected to the control circuit 28 for inputting data and the like. Further, a dimming filter 60 is connected to the control circuit 28 via a driver (not shown), and controls the operation of the dimming filter 60.

Next, the operation of the first embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. Note that the flowchart in FIG. 3 is executed when the negative film 20 is set in the printer and execution of the printing process is instructed.

In step 100, the negative film 20 is transported, and information for each negative film 20 is read from the magnetic track S1 of the negative film 20 to be subjected to printing processing. In step 102, based on the read information for each negative film 50, it is determined whether or not to perform the average exposure printing process according to the present invention. This judgment is based on the camera's AF function and AE
The result is affirmative when an image of the negative film 20 is photographed using the function.

If the determination at step 102 is negative, the process moves to step 104, and from step 104 to step 110 normal printing processing is performed. That is, in step 104, the two-dimensional image sensor 30 measures the light of a single image frame 20A, and calculates the average density of the entire screen. In step 106, the printing exposure amount of the image frame 20A is determined based on this average density using the following equation (1).

log Ei =K1i+K2i(D1i−DN
i)+K3i...(1) However, i
represents either R, G, or B, Ei is the printing exposure amount,
DNi is the density of the reference negative (so-called eyeball negative), D1i
is the density of the single image frame 20A obtained in step 104, K1i and K2i are constants determined depending on the type of printer, negative film 20, color paper 26, development processing performance of color paper 26, etc., and K3i is the correction amount. be. The amount of correction is determined by a known method (for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 62-42496,
(See Japanese Patent Publication No. 59-29848, etc.).

In the next step 108, the image of the image frame 20A is printed on the color paper 26 using this printing exposure amount. In step 110, it is determined whether the printing process for one film has been completed. If the determination at step 110 is negative, the process returns to step 104 and the above process is repeated. In this way, for example, when an image is taken with the exposure adjusted manually, or when an image is taken with a low-priced camera that does not have an exposure adjustment function, each single image frame of 20A The printing exposure amount is determined and the printing process is performed. If the determination in step 110 is affirmative, step 10
Return to 0.

On the other hand, if the determination in step 102 is affirmative, the process moves to step 112, where printing processing using average exposure is performed. That is, in step 112, the focal length and shooting distance of the lens at the time of photographing, which are magnetically recorded on the single magnetic track S2, are read, and in step 114, the single image frame 50A corresponding to the magnetic track S2 is read out.
The dimensional image sensor 30 performs photometry to determine the average density of the entire screen or a partial screen for each of R, G, and B, and stores this. Note that the average density of the main portion of the screen may be determined. The main part of the screen can be, for example, the center area of the screen where the main subject is located with a high probability, or the focus area area.

In the next step 116, the photographing magnification at the time of photographing the image frame 20A is calculated from the read lens focal length and photographing distance. In step 118, it is determined whether the photographing magnification is a predetermined value or more, for example, 1/120 or more or 1/60 or more. If the determination in step 118 is affirmative, the frame number of the image frame is stored in step 120. In step 122, it is determined whether processing for one roll of negative film 20 has been completed. If the determination in step 122 is negative, the process returns to step 112, and steps 112 to 122 are repeated until the information reading and photometry of all image frames 20A of the negative film 20 are completed, and the image capturing magnification is equal to or higher than a predetermined value. Memorize frame 20A.

If the determination in step 122 is affirmative, the process moves to step 124, where the negative film 20 is rewound to the beginning. In the next step 126, the average value of the average density of all the stored image frames of the negative film 20 is calculated. In step 128, the average value of the average density is used to determine the printing exposure amount according to the following equation (2).

log Ei =K1i+K2i(Di −DNi
)+K3i...(2) However, i represents R, G, or B, Ei is the printing exposure amount, and D
Ni is the density of the reference negative (so-called eyeball negative), Di is the average value of the average density of the image frames obtained in step 126, and K
1i and K2i are constants determined depending on the type of printer, negative film 20, color paper 26, development processing performance of color paper 26, etc., and K3i represents a correction amount used as necessary. The printing exposure amount that optimizes print density and color balance is determined by the above equation (2).

[0037] After step 130, a baking process is performed. That is, in step 130, the frame number stored in step 120 is referred to, and the image frame 20 to be subjected to the burning process is selected.
It is determined whether the photographing magnification of A is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. If the determination in step 130 is affirmative, then in step 132, the image frame 20A is printed using the printing exposure amount Ei determined above. That is, image frame 2 of negative film 20
0A is positioned at the printing position of the negative carrier 12, and the unexposed portion of the color paper 26 is positioned at the printing position. Next, the black shutter 24 is opened, and the light rays emitted from the lamp house 10 and transmitted through the light control filter 60, the mirror box 18, and the negative film 20 are imaged on the color paper 26. As a result, image frame 20A
The image is printed on color paper 26. Also, R,
The operation of the light control filter 60 and the black shutter 24 is controlled so that the exposure amount of each of G and B becomes the printing exposure amount Ei.

If the determination in step 130 is affirmative, the photographing magnification of the image frame 20A to be subjected to the printing process is smaller than the predetermined value, so in step 134 the image frame 20A is
Based on the density value of 0A, the printing exposure amount is determined using the above equation (1), and in step 182, printing processing is performed using this printing exposure amount. In step 124, one negative film 20
It is determined whether or not the printing process has been completed for all image frames 20A. If the determination at step 124 is negative, the process returns to step 130 and the above process is repeated. As a result, all the image frames 20A in one negative film 20 whose photographing magnification is equal to or higher than a predetermined value have the same printing exposure amount Ei.
The image frames 20A which are printed with a photographing magnification smaller than a predetermined value are printed with a printing exposure amount corresponding to each density value. If the determination in step 138 is affirmative, the process returns to step 100 and the same process is repeated for the next negative film 20.

In this way, in the first embodiment, the camera's A
When printing a negative film 20 on which an image has been taken using the F function and the AE function, the negative film 20
The average density of each image frame 20A is measured, and the printing exposure amount Ei is determined based on the average value of the average density, and all image frames 2 in the negative film 20 whose photographing magnification is equal to or higher than a predetermined value are
Since 0A is subjected to the printing process with the printing exposure amount Ei, the image frame 20A whose photographing magnification is equal to or higher than a predetermined value is printed with an appropriate density, and prints with an appropriate density can be obtained with a high yield.

In the above embodiment, the average value of the density values of the image frames 20A is calculated for each negative film 20, and the printing exposure amount is calculated for each negative film 20 based on this average value. However, even if there are multiple frames in one roll, the average value of the density values of the image frames 20A of multiple negative films 20 (for example, all the image frames 20A of the roll negative film 20 set in the printer) is calculated. Alternatively, a common printing exposure amount may be determined for a plurality of negative films 20.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the average value of the density values of all the image frames 20A of the negative film 20 is calculated, and the printing exposure amount is determined based on this average value. An average value may be calculated using only the density values of the image frames 20A photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value, and the printing exposure amount may be determined based on this average value. [Second Embodiment] A second embodiment of the present invention will be described below. Note that since the printer and negative film 20 of the second embodiment have the same configuration as the first embodiment, the explanation will be omitted, and FIG.
The operation of the second embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart. Further, in the flowchart of FIG. 4, description of the same parts as those of the flowchart of FIG. 3 will be omitted.

In the second embodiment, in the printing process using average exposure, the single image frame 20A is photometered to determine the average density, and after this is stored (step 164), in step 166, the density value is determined to be within the reference range. Determining whether it is outside or not. This reference range may be, for example, a density within which the difference from the density value of a reference negative (so-called eyeball negative) is within a predetermined value. Underexposed or overexposed image frame 20A
When photometry is performed, the determination in step 166 is affirmative. If the determination in step 166 is affirmative, step 1
At 68, the frame number of the image frame 20A is stored. Also,
Similarly to the first embodiment, the photographing magnification of each image frame 20A is calculated (step 170), and if the photographing magnification is equal to or higher than a predetermined value (
If the determination in step 172 is affirmative), the frame number of this image frame is stored (step 174). By repeating the above process, one negative film 2
Among the 0 image frames 20A, the frame numbers of all image frames whose density values are outside the reference range and the frame numbers of all image frames 20A whose photographic magnification is equal to or higher than a predetermined value are stored.

In step 180, the average value of the density values of the image frames 20A is calculated, but the frame numbers of the image frames 20A whose stored density values are outside the reference range are referred to, and the density values of the frame numbers are excluded. Calculate the average value. This eliminates the influence of concentration values outside the reference range on the average value, resulting in a more appropriate average value. In the next step 182, using the above average value, step 1 of the flowchart of FIG.
Similarly to 28, the printing exposure amount is determined by equation (2). In the burning processing from step 184 onwards, as in the first embodiment, it is determined whether the imaging magnification of the image frame 20A to be subjected to the burning processing is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (step 184), and for image frames whose imaging magnification is greater than or equal to the predetermined value. performs the printing process using the printing exposure amount determined using the average value (step 18).
6) For the image frame 20A whose photographic magnification is smaller than a predetermined value, the printing exposure amount of the image frame 20A to be subjected to the printing process is determined based on the density value of the image frame 20A (step 188), and this printing exposure amount is used. A baking process is performed (step 190).

In this way, in the second embodiment, the average value is calculated by excluding density values outside the reference range, and the printing exposure amount is determined based on this average value. It is possible to obtain a more appropriate average density value that eliminates the influence of images with extremely high or low values, and it is possible to print image frame 20A, which was taken at a shooting magnification higher than a predetermined value, at an appropriate density. Prints with high density can be obtained with high yield.

[0045] Note that the step 184 of the second embodiment
Then, it is determined whether the image frame 20A to be subjected to the printing process was photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value and the density value is within the reference range, and only if the above determination is affirmative, step 18 is performed.
The printing process may be performed using the printing exposure amount determined using the average value in step 6.

[Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the third embodiment, in addition to the focal length and photographing distance of the lens when each image frame 20A was photographed, the magnetic track S2 includes information representing the photographing conditions of each image frame 20A, such as the photographing light source, the photographing date, etc. , shooting time, etc. are magnetically recorded. Note that the printer has the same configuration as the first and second embodiments, so a description thereof will be omitted.

Next, the operation of the third embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Note that in the flowchart of FIG. 5, descriptions of the same parts as those of the flowchart of FIG. 3 will be omitted.

In the third embodiment, in the average exposure printing process, the lens focal length, photographing distance, and photographing conditions magnetically recorded on a single magnetic track S2 are read (
At step 212), the single image frame 20A corresponding to the magnetic track S2 is photometered to determine the average density of R, G.
, B (step 214), and the read photographing conditions and density values are stored in correspondence (step 216). Also, similarly to the first and second embodiments, the frame number of the image frame 20A photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value is stored (steps 218 to 232).

The above process is performed on all image frames 20A of one negative film 20, and after rewinding the negative film 20 to the beginning in step 236, step 238
Now, based on the photographing conditions of each stored image frame 20A, the image frames are grouped into image frames photographed under similar photographing conditions. This grouping based on shooting conditions can be done, for example, by grouping according to the shooting light source such as strobe, daylight, fluorescent light, etc., by grouping according to the time of day or season when the photo was taken, or by a combination of the above. can do. Step 24
0, 20 image frames belonging to each group for each group
The average value of the density values of A is calculated. As described above, since image frames photographed under similar photographing conditions are grouped into the same group, an appropriate average density value can be obtained for each group according to the photographing conditions. In step 240, the printing exposure amount is determined for each group using the equation (2) above, based on the average density value for each group.

In the burning process after step 244, it is determined whether the image frame 20A to be subjected to the burning process was photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value (step 244), and if the above judgment is affirmative, the burning process is performed. The group of image frames 20A to which the image frame 20A is to be subjected to the printing process is determined, and the printing process is performed using the printing exposure amount of the group to which the image frame 20A belongs among the printing exposure amounts for each group determined in step 242. In addition, image frame 2 taken at a shooting magnification smaller than the predetermined value
For 0A, the printing exposure amount of the image frame 20A is determined based on the density value of the image frame 20A (step 24).
8) Perform the printing process using this printing exposure amount (step 25)
0).

In this way, in the third embodiment, the plurality of image frames 20A are divided into groups according to the photographing conditions, the average density value is determined for each group, and each image frame 20A is divided into groups based on the average value for each group. By determining the printing exposure amount for each group,
Image frame 2 where an appropriate average density value was obtained according to the shooting conditions and was shot at a shooting magnification equal to or higher than the predetermined value for each group.
By printing 0A with the printing exposure amount for each group, image frame 20A taken at a photographing magnification of a predetermined value or higher can be printed with an appropriate density, and prints with an appropriate density can be obtained at a high yield rate. Can be done.

In the above embodiment, the focal length of the lens and the shooting distance were recorded using a camera equipped with an AF function and an AE function. It is also possible to record the above information using a camera that uses a focus aid system that performs the process manually. Also,
In a camera that does not use a zoom lens, the focal length of the lens is fixed, and only the shooting distance may be detected and recorded automatically or manually. In addition, in the above embodiment, the focal length and shooting distance of the lens are set by the magnetic track S.
However, in cameras that do not use the zoom lens, the focal length of the lens is magnetically recorded on the magnetic track S1, and only the shooting distance is recorded on the magnetic track S2.
It may also be possible to magnetically record the information.

Further, in the above embodiment, various kinds of information are recorded on the magnetic tracks S1 and S2, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, a bar code expressing various kinds of information is recorded on the negative film 20 or on the negative film 20. The information may be attached to the cartridge containing the film 20, or may be recorded on a memory card or the like separate from the negative film. Alternatively, the information may be input to the printer via the keypad 32.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the average density of the image frame was determined for each of R, G, and B, and the print density and color balance were simultaneously optimized using equation (2). This may be performed separately, independent of the print density correction of the present invention. Also,
After calculating the printing exposure amount with the print density and color balance corrected using equation (2), the R, G,
The color balance may be readjusted as necessary by referring to the average density of each B.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, negative film 2
The determination of the exposure amount when the average exposure printing process according to the present invention is not performed based on the information of 0 is not limited to the method described in this embodiment.

Next, the results of printing by applying the present invention will be compared with those of the conventional method.・Camera: Minolta α-7700i
(manufactured by Minolta, product name) (AF function, multi-point metering AE function, photometry when focusing) ・Film: Fujicolor SHG100 (manufactured by Fuji Film, product name) ・Printer: FAP35
00 (manufactured by Fujifilm, product name) ・Photographic paper: HG paper
(Manufactured by Fuji Film, product name) The above 30 films were photographed using the focus lock function with the above camera, and after being processed, they were set in the above printer, and the shooting magnification calculated from the focal length of the lens and the shooting magnification was Image frames of 1/120 or larger are (a) printed using the printer's density correction function (conventional), (
b) Printing with the printing exposure determined by averaging the photometric values of each image frame of 30 films, (c) Printing the image frame of each film with the printing exposure determined by averaging the photometric values of each film. Three types of prints were made: At this time, image frames with a shooting magnification of 1/120 or higher and 1/1
Among the prints corresponding to 60 or more image frames, the ratio of prints whose density difference is within ±1 key with respect to the appropriate print density is shown below.・Photographing magnification 1/120 or more Print method Ratio of prints with density difference within ±1 key (
a) 5
1% (b)
83% (c)
89%・
Shooting magnification 1/60 or more Print method Ratio of prints with density difference within ±1 key (
a) 4
3% (b)
88% (c)
93% Thus, when the present invention is applied, prints with a density close to the appropriate print density can be obtained at a high yield rate. In addition, by printing image frames taken at a shooting magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value for each film using the printing exposure amount calculated by averaging the photometric values for each film ((c) above), A more appropriate printing exposure amount can be obtained in accordance with variations in sensitivity, etc., and as described above, prints with a print density close to the appropriate print density can be obtained at a higher yield.

[0057]

Effects of the Invention The invention as claimed in claim 1 is a method for metering each of a plurality of image frames photographed on a film using a camera having a function of determining exposure by metering different areas on a subject using a plurality of photometering elements. However, the printing exposure amount is calculated based on the average value of the photometric values, and the image frames taken at a shooting magnification of a predetermined value or higher are printed on photographic paper at the printing exposure amount, so that the shooting magnification of a shooting magnification of a predetermined value or higher is printed. It is possible to print image frames photographed with the camera at an appropriate density, and the excellent effect of obtaining prints at an appropriate density at a high yield rate can be obtained.

According to the second aspect of the invention, each image frame photographed at a photographing magnification of a predetermined value or higher is photometered, the printing exposure amount is determined based on the average value of the photometric values, and the image frame is photometered at a photographing magnification of a predetermined value or higher. Since the photographed image frames are printed on the photographic paper at the above-mentioned printing exposure, the image frames photographed at a photographing magnification of a predetermined value or higher can be printed at an appropriate density.
It is possible to obtain prints with appropriate density at a high yield rate.
This excellent effect can be obtained.

Furthermore, among the photometric values of a plurality of image frames, the average value of the photometric values is determined by excluding the photometric values whose values are outside a predetermined range, and the printing exposure amount is determined based on the average value.
Since a more appropriate average value of photometric values can be obtained, image frames taken at a shooting magnification higher than a predetermined value can be printed with appropriate density, and prints with appropriate density can be obtained with a high yield rate. This excellent effect can be obtained.

According to the fifth aspect of the invention, each of a plurality of image frames is photometered and divided into groups according to photographing conditions, the average value of the photometric values is determined for each group, and the average value of the photometric values for each group is determined. to find the printing exposure amount for each group,
Image frames taken at a shooting magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value for each group are printed onto photographic paper using the printing exposure amount for each group, so image frames taken at a shooting magnification equal to or higher than a predetermined value are printed on photographic paper at an appropriate density. It has the excellent effect of being able to print with appropriate density at a high yield.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a printer according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a negative film according to the first example.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the second embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the third embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

20 Negative film 26 Color paper 28 Control circuit 30 2D image sensor

Claims (5)

[Claims] 1. When printing a plurality of image frames taken on film with a camera having a function of determining exposure by metering different areas on a subject using a plurality of photometric elements onto photographic paper, the plurality of image frames are printed on photographic paper. Photographic printing is characterized in that each photometer is photometered, a printing exposure amount is determined based on the average value of the photometric values, and image frames photographed at a photographing magnification of a predetermined value or higher are printed on photographic paper at the printing exposure amount. Method. [Claim 2] When printing a plurality of image frames taken on film with a camera having a function of determining exposure by measuring light of different areas on a subject using a plurality of photometering elements onto photographic paper, the number of image frames exceeding a predetermined value is Each image frame taken at a magnification is photometered, the printing exposure amount is calculated based on the average value of the photometric values, and the image frames taken at a shooting magnification of a predetermined value or higher are printed onto photographic paper at the printing exposure amount. A photo printing method characterized by the following. 3. The photographic printing method according to claim 1, wherein the camera is a camera that determines exposure when the main subject is in focus. 4. Among the photometric values of the plurality of image frames,
4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the average value of the photometric values is determined by excluding photometric values having values outside a predetermined range, and the printing exposure amount is determined based on the average value. Photo printing method. 5. When printing a plurality of image frames taken on film with a camera having a function of determining exposure by metering different areas on a subject using a plurality of photometric elements onto photographic paper, the plurality of image frames are At the same time, each group is divided into groups according to shooting conditions, the average value of the photometric values is determined for each group, and the printing exposure amount for each group is determined based on the average value for each group. A photographic printing method characterized by printing image frames photographed at a photographing magnification equal to or higher than a value on photographic paper at a printing exposure amount for each group.