Abstract:
A printing method for printing an image based on image data, the printing method includes: loading the image data from a storage medium in which the image data is stored; printing an order sheet, wherein the order sheet includes an index image representing the loaded image data to receive from a user entry of information for printing the image; recognizing the information entered in the order sheet via scanning of the printed order sheet; and printing a corrected image made by executing image correction to the image based on the recognized entered information.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATION  
       [0001]     This application relates to and claims priority from the following identified Japanese Patent Applications, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein.  
         [0002]     1. Japanese Patent Application No. P2005-303023, filed on Oct. 18, 2005  
         [0003]     2. Japanese Patent Application No. P2006-223768, filed on Aug. 21, 2006  
       BACKGROUND  
       [0004]     1. Technical Field  
         [0005]     The present invention relates to an image printing technology that prints images.  
         [0006]     2. Related Art  
         [0007]     Image printing technologies include those in which, when image data stored on a storage medium is to be printed using a printing apparatus, image printing is realized based on the image data using an order sheet on which are printed marking space areas that receive instructions regarding the number of printed copies, the paper size or the like using an index image that represents the image data. Such image printing technologies are disclosed in the patent references JP-A-2004-255729, JP-A-2005-111802, JP-A-2005-117328, JP-A-2005-125730 and JP-A-2005-138573.  
       SUMMARY  
       [0008]     However, in the image printing technologies, insufficient consideration has been given to the correction of images to be printed using an order sheet.  
         [0009]     An advantage of some aspects of the invention is to provide an image printing technology by which the convenience of image printing using an order sheet can be improved.  
         [0010]     A apparatus according to an aspect of the invention is a printing apparatus that prints images based on image data and includes an image reader that reads image data from a storage medium on which such image data is stored, an order sheet printing controller that executes control to print an order sheet having entry areas that receive user input of information used for printing of images using index images representing the read image data, a scanning/recognition unit that scans the order sheet and recognizes entry information entered in the entry areas, and a correction/printing controller that performs control to execute printing of corrected images comprising images that have been subjected to image correction based on the recognized entry information. As a result, the user of the printing apparatus can carry out on the printing apparatus using an order sheet requests related to image processing to be performed to images to print. Therefore, the convenience of image printing using an order sheet can be improved. Here, the types of image correction performed based on the recognized entry information may include at least one of the following types: contrast correction, sharpness correction, brightness correction, color temperature correction, color density correction, tone correction, red-eye correction, or trimming correction.  
         [0011]     The printing apparatus described above may take the following forms. For example, it is acceptable if the order sheet printing controller includes an image quality evaluation unit that evaluates the image quality level of the image based on the image data and the image quality level obtained as a result of the evaluation is indicated on the printed order sheet. In this case, the printing apparatus user can execute on the printing apparatus a request related to image processing using the order sheet after taking into consideration the image quality level indicated on the order sheet. The image quality level subjected to evaluation may comprise an image quality level based on at least one of such evaluation items as blur, wobble, degree of exposure or noise.  
         [0012]     It is acceptable if the entry areas in the printed order sheet have multiple marking spaces representing the levels of image correction, the scan recognition unit includes a mark recognition unit that recognizes as entry information marks entered in the marking spaces, and the correction/printing controller performs control to execute printing of a corrected image that has undergone image correction according to the correction levels reflecting the marking spaces in which a mark is recognized. As a result, the user of the printing apparatus can specify the correction levels for the image to be printed using an order sheet.  
         [0013]     It is furthermore acceptable if the image data includes exposure status data that indicates the exposure status, i.e., the status present at the time of exposure to capture the image, and the printed order sheet indicates the results after image correction based on the exposure status data has been carried out to the image. In this case, the user of the printing apparatus can adjust the image correction based on the exposure status data using the order sheet. It is also acceptable if the exposure status data comprises Exif data. In such a case, the printing apparatus can execute appropriate printing correction based on such information as the exposure mode, white balance, shutter speed, aperture and the like pertaining to the digital still camera used.  
         [0014]     It is additionally acceptable if the index images include various sample images that are obtained by carrying out various forms of image correction to the original image, each entry area on the printed order sheet has multiple marking space areas corresponding to each sample image, the scanning/recognition unit includes a mark recognition unit that recognizes marks entered in the marking spaces as entry information, and the correction/printing controller performs control to execute printing of a corrected image that can be obtained by subjecting the original image to image correction to which the sample image corresponding to the marking space in which a mark is recognized was subjected. In this case, the user of the printing apparatus can select the type and degree of image correction with reference to the sample images.  
         [0015]     It is furthermore acceptable if each entry area in the printed order sheet has multiple marking space areas corresponding to types of image correction, the scan recognition unit includes a mark recognition unit that recognizes as entry information marks entered in the marking spaces, and the correction/printing controller performs control to execute printing of a corrected image comprising the index image subjected to image correction of the types indicated by marking spaces in which a mark is recognized. In this case, the user of the printing apparatus can specify the types of image correction using an order sheet. Furthermore, in this case, it is also acceptable if the printing apparatus includes a correction level receiving unit that receives from the user the selection of the correction level for each type of image correction to be performed to the image prior to printing of the corrected image. In this case, the user of the printing apparatus can instruct to the printing apparatus the correction level of each type of image correction after the types of image correction are specified using an order sheet.  
         [0016]     It is furthermore acceptable if the scanning/recognition unit includes an image mark recognition unit that recognizes as entry information marks entered on an index image, and the correction/printing controller includes a correction area specification unit that specifies areas on the image corresponding to the areas indicated by the recognized marks in the index image as the areas on the image to which image correction should be performed based on the recognized entry information. In this case, the user of the printing apparatus can specify correction areas on the image using an order sheet.  
         [0017]     It is furthermore acceptable if the correction/printing controller performs printing the corrected image immediately after the order sheet is scanned and the entry information is recognized. In this case, the user of the printing apparatus can obtain printing of corrected images using a simple procedure.  
         [0018]     It is furthermore acceptable if the printing apparatus includes a display unit that displays the corrected image prior to printing thereof and a modification receiving unit that receives from the user modifications to the corrected image prior to the printing thereof. In this case, the user of the printing apparatus can obtain a printing of an image to which desired image correction is carried out by instructing modifications to such image correction while checking the image to which image correction has been performed.  
         [0019]     It is furthermore acceptable if the correction/printing controller includes a modification determination unit that determines, based on the recognized entry information and prior to printing of the corrected image, whether or not modifications to the corrected image are to be received from the user. In this case, the user of the printing apparatus can decide whether or not he will make modifications to the corrected image using an order sheet.  
         [0020]     The invention is not limited to the form of a printing apparatus, and may be applied, for example, in a printing method for printing an image via a printing apparatus based on image data, a program for realizing via the computer of a printing apparatus the function of printing an image based on image data, or a computer system that includes a personal computer, printing apparatus and scanning device. Furthermore, the invention is not limited to the forms described above, and may naturally be realized in various forms that fall within the essential scope thereof. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0021]     The invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like numbers reference like elements, and in which:  
         [0022]      FIG. 1  is a perspective drawing showing the external configuration of a printing apparatus  10 ;  
         [0023]      FIG. 2  is an explanatory drawing showing the internal configuration of the printing apparatus  10 ;  
         [0024]      FIG. 3  is a flow chart showing an image printing process carried out by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  in a first embodiment;  
         [0025]      FIG. 4  is an explanatory drawing showing an example of an order sheet  910  printed by the printing apparatus  10  of the first embodiment;  
         [0026]      FIG. 5  is an explanatory drawing showing an enlargement of an entry area  9130  of the order sheet  910  shown in  FIG. 4 ;  
         [0027]      FIG. 6  is an explanatory drawing showing an example of the order sheet  910  of  FIG. 4  on which information used to print the image is entered by the user in the first embodiment;  
         [0028]      FIG. 7  is an explanatory drawing showing an enlargement of the entry area  9130  on the order sheet  910  shown in  FIG. 6 ;  
         [0029]      FIG. 8  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of a second embodiment;  
         [0030]      FIG. 9  is an explanatory drawing showing an example of an order sheet  920  printed by the printing apparatus  10  of the second embodiment;  
         [0031]      FIG. 10  is an explanatory drawing showing an enlargement of an entry area  9230  of the order sheet  920  shown in  FIG. 9 ;  
         [0032]      FIG. 11  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of a third embodiment;  
         [0033]      FIG. 12  is an explanatory drawing showing the entry area  9330  of the order sheet of the third embodiment;  
         [0034]      FIG. 13  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of a fourth embodiment;  
         [0035]      FIG. 14  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area  9430  of the order sheet of the fourth embodiment;  
         [0036]      FIG. 15  is an explanatory drawing showing the entry area  9430  shown in  FIG. 14  in which information used to print an image has been entered by the user;  
         [0037]      FIG. 16  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of a fifth embodiment;  
         [0038]      FIG. 17  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area  9530  of the order sheet of the fifth embodiment;  
         [0039]      FIG. 18  is an explanatory drawing showing the entry area  9530  shown in  FIG. 17  in which information used to print an image has been entered by the user;  
         [0040]      FIG. 19  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of a sixth embodiment;  
         [0041]      FIG. 20  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area  9630  of the order sheet of the sixth embodiment;  
         [0042]      FIG. 21  is an explanatory drawing showing the entry area  9630  shown in  FIG. 20  in which information used to print an image has been entered by the user;  
         [0043]      FIG. 22  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of a seventh embodiment;  
         [0044]      FIG. 23  is an explanatory drawing showing an example of an order sheet  970  printed by the printing apparatus  10  of the seventh embodiment;  
         [0045]      FIG. 24  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of an eighth embodiment;  
         [0046]      FIG. 25  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area  9335  of the order sheet of the eighth embodiment;  
         [0047]      FIG. 26  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area  9435  of the order sheet when one type of correction has been specified in the eighth embodiment;  
         [0048]      FIG. 27  is an explanatory drawing showing the entry area  9830  of a different embodiment;  
         [0049]      FIG. 28  is an explanatory drawing showing the entry area  9830  shown in  FIG. 24  on which information used to print an image is entered by the user in the different embodiment;  
         [0050]      FIG. 29  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area  9635  of the order sheet of a still different embodiment on which backlight correction can be specified. 
     
    
     DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS  
       [0051]     In order to further clarify the construction and operation of the invention described above, the image printing technology applied in the invention below will now be described according to the following sequence. 
    A. First embodiment (Specification of correction levels)    
 
         [0053]     A-1. Construction of printing apparatus  
         [0054]     A-2. Operation of printing apparatus 
    B. Second embodiment (Presentation of image quality level)     C. Third embodiment (Presentation of type and degree of correction based on exposure status data)     D. Fourth embodiment (Presentation of set of sample images)     E. Fifth embodiment (Specification of types of correction)     F. Sixth embodiment (Specification of correction areas)     G. Seventh embodiment (Modification of correction levels)     H. Eighth embodiment (Specification of types of correction for sample image)     I. Other embodiments    
 
       A. First Embodiment (Specification of Correction Levels)  
       [0063]     A-1. Construction of Printing Apparatus  
         [0064]      FIG. 1  is a perspective drawing showing the external configuration of a printing apparatus  10 .  FIG. 2  is an explanatory drawing showing the internal configuration of the printing apparatus  10 . The printing apparatus  10  shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2  is a so-called multifunction peripheral, i.e., an apparatus that combines such functions as those of a color printer, monochrome printer, scanner and copier. The printing apparatus  10  also has, in addition to these functions, an order sheet printing function comprising a function by which images stored on a storage medium connected to the printing apparatus  10  are printed using an order sheet.  
         [0065]     The printing apparatus  10  includes a main controller  110  that controls the various components of the printing apparatus  10 , a printing unit  120  that performs printing onto a printing medium  900  such as normal paper, photo paper or a postcard, a scanning unit  130  that performs scanning, i.e., reads images on paper and converts them to digital data, a card slot  140  that can read from and write data to a storage medium  810  such as a memory card containing an internal flash memory, a communication connector  150  that can exchange data with an external device  820  that contains an internal storage medium, such as a personal computer, a digital still camera or a digital video camera, a display unit  160  that displays letters and images, and an input button  170  that receives instruction input from the user of the printing apparatus  10 .  
         [0066]     The main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  includes an image reader  112  that reads out image data from the storage medium  810  connected to the card slot  140  or the external device  820  connected to the communication connector  150 , an order sheet printing controller  114  that controls the printing of an order sheet that receives from the user entry of information used to print images based on read-out image data, a scanning/recognition unit  116  that scans the order sheet and recognizes the entry information entered by the user, and a correction/printing controller  118  that performs control to print corrected images comprising original images that have undergone image correction based on the recognized entry information.  
         [0067]     In this embodiment, the main controller  110  comprises an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) that incorporates hardware such as a central processing unit (CPU), a read-only memory (ROM) and a random-access memory (RAM), and software to realize the functions of the image reader  112 , the order sheet printing controller  114 , the scanning/recognition unit  116  and the correction/printing controller  118  is installed in the main controller  110 . The operation of the main controller  110  will be described in detail below.  
         [0068]     The printing unit  120  of the main controller  110  includes a print head unit  210  that discharges printing ink onto the printing medium  900 , a carriage  200  on which the print head unit  210  is mounted, a carriage driver  240  that drives the carriage  200  in the main scanning directions, and a printing medium feeder  250  that feeds the printing medium  900 , as shown in  FIG. 2 . The print head unit  210  of the printing unit  120  has a total of six ink discharge heads  211 - 216 , one for each of the ink colors of black, cyan, light cyan, magenta, light magenta and yellow. Each of the ink discharge heads  211 - 216  discharges ink onto the printing medium  900  via the voltage adjustment of a piezoelectric element (not shown). The ink discharge heads  211 - 216 , carriage driver  240  and printing medium feeder  250  of the printing unit  120  achieve printing onto the printing medium  900  by being moved in tandem based on instructions from the main controller  110 .  
         [0069]     A-2. Operation of Printing Apparatus  
         [0070]      FIG. 3  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of the first embodiment. The main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  begins the image printing process of  FIG. 3  when the storage medium  810  or external device  820  is mounted in the card slot  140  or to the communication connector  150  and a command to execute the order sheet printing function is entered by the user via the input button  170 .  
         [0071]     When the image printing process of  FIG. 3  is begun, the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  reads out image data from the storage medium  810  or external device  820  mounted to the card slot  140  or communication connector  150  (step S 105 ). The main controller  110  then instructs the printing unit  120  to perform printing of an order sheet based on the read-out image data (step S 110 ), based on which an order sheet is printed.  
         [0072]      FIG. 4  is an explanatory drawing showing an example of an order sheet  910  printed by the printing apparatus  10  of the first embodiment. The order sheet  910  shown in  FIG. 4  has a printing paper specification area  9110  comprising a receiving area to receive user entry of information used to specify the type of printing paper on which images are to be printed based on the image data, as well as a printing style specification area  9120  comprising a receiving area to receive user entry of information used to specify the style of printing for each image based on the image data.  
         [0073]     The printing paper specification area  9110  of the order sheet  910  has multiple marking spaces  9112  that correspond to multiple types of printing paper and receive user entry in order to specify the type of printing paper on which images are to be printed based on image data. In this embodiment, the multiple marking spaces  9112  are blank ovals. In this embodiment, each of the multiple marking spaces  9112  is followed by text indicating the type of printing paper associated with that marking space. In the example shown in  FIG. 4 , in order to indicate the types of printing paper corresponding to each of the multiple marking spaces  9112 , the text ‘Photo paper—L size’ indicating photo paper to realize photo-quality printing on L-size paper, the text ‘Photo paper—2L size’ indicating 2L-size photo paper, the text ‘Photo paper—Card’ indicating card-sized photo paper, the text ‘Photo paper/Postcard all’ indicating postcard-sized photo paper, the text ‘Photo paper—A4’ indicating A4-sized photo paper and the text ‘Format paper—A4’ indicating the default selection of A4-sized printing paper are shown respectively after each marking space.  
         [0074]     The printing style specification area  9120  on the order sheet  910  has entry areas  9130  that receive from the user the entry of information used to specify the printing style for each image based on the image data.  FIG. 5  is an explanatory drawing showing an enlargement of an entry area  9130  on the order sheet  910  shown in  FIG. 4 . Each entry area  9130  of the order sheet  910  has a data name  9132  comprising an identifier to identify the name of the read-out image data item, an index image  9134  indicating an image based on such image data, a marking space area  9136  that receives user entry to specify the number of prints of the image to be printed based on this image data, a marking space area  9142  that receives user entry to specify the correction level for ‘Brightness’ to be carried out to the image to be printed, a marking space area  9144  that receives user entry to specify the correction level for ‘Hue’ to be carried out to the image to be printed, and a marking space area  9146  that receives user entry to specify the correction level for ‘Sharpness’ to be carried out to the image to be printed.  
         [0075]     The image quality of the index image  9134  in the entry area  9130  is identical in this embodiment to that of the image printed normally based on the image data. In this embodiment, the marking space area  9136  of the entry area  9130  contains three blank ovals aligned vertically, and the numbers ‘1’, ‘2’ and ‘3’ are shown in the center of these ovals, respectively, in order to receive specification to indicate whether ‘1’, ‘2’ or ‘3’ prints are to be printed.  
         [0076]     In this embodiment, the marking space areas  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  each comprise five blank ovals that are aligned horizontally. The text ‘High’ is indicated below the leftmost of the five ovals for the marking space areas  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146 , the text ‘Normal’ is indicated below the center of the five ovals for these marking space areas, and the text ‘Low’ is indicated below the rightmost of these five ovals. In this way, five different correction levels for each of the marking space areas  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  may be received.  
         [0077]      FIG. 6  is an explanatory drawing showing an example of the order sheet  910  of  FIG. 4  on which information used to print images is entered by the user in this embodiment.  FIG. 7  is an explanatory drawing showing an enlargement of an entry area  9130  of the order sheet  910  shown in  FIG. 6 . The order sheet  910  of  FIG. 6  has, as information entered by the user in order to print the images, a mark MK comprising a blacking out of one of the multiple marking spaces  9112  in the printing paper specification area  9110  and marks MK comprising the blacking out of various marking spaces in the multiple marking space areas  9136 ,  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  in the printing style specification area  9120 .  
         [0078]     In the example shown in  FIG. 5 , a mark MK is entered in the marking space  9112  corresponding to ‘Photo paper—L size’ in the printing paper specification area  9110 . Within the printing style specification area  9120  shown in  FIG. 5 , in the entry area  9130  pertaining to the data name ‘GD0110’ shown in  FIG. 7 , a mark MK is entered in the oval containing the number ‘ 2 ’ in the marking space area  9136  that receives specification of the number of prints, a mark MK is entered in the second oval from the left in the marking space area  9142  that receives specification of the correction level for ‘Brightness’, a mark MK is entered in the center oval in the marking space area  9144  that receives specification of the correction level for ‘Hue’, and a mark MK is entered in the rightmost oval in the marking space area  9146  that receives specification of the correction level for ‘Sharpness’.  
         [0079]     Returning to  FIG. 3 , after the order sheet  910  shown in  FIG. 4  is printed (step S 110 ), the order sheet  910  shown in  FIG. 6  is set in the scanning unit  130  of the printing apparatus  10  by the user, and when a request for scanning of the order sheet  910  shown in  FIG. 6  is input by the user via the input button  170 , the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  obtains from the scanning unit  130  a scanned image comprising the scanned order sheet  910  resulting from the issuance of an instruction to the scanning unit  130  to scan the set order sheet  910  (step S 115 ).  
         [0080]     The main controller  110  then recognizes, within the scanned image obtained from the scanning unit  130 , the mark MK entered in the marking space  9112  contained in the printing paper specification area  9110  as well as the marks MK entered in the marking space areas  9136 ,  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  contained in the printing style specification area  9120  (step S 120 ). The recognition of the marks MK may be realized via analysis of the color differences between the printed order sheet  910  and the scanned order sheet  910 , or via extraction of a specific color on the scanned order sheet  910 .  
         [0081]     After each mark MK is recognized from the scanned image (step S 120 ), the main controller  110  determines, after preparation for printing of the initial image according to the sequence shown on the order sheet  910  (step S 130 ), whether or not the prepared image is to be printed (step S 140 ). In this embodiment, where a mark MK is recognized in the marking space area  9136  that receives specification of the number of prints, it is determined that the prepared image will be printed.  
         [0082]     Where it is determined that the prepared image is to be printed (step S 140 ), the main controller  110  determines whether or not marks MK are recognized in the marking space areas  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  that receive specification of the correction levels for the various types of image correction (step S 150 ).  
         [0083]     Where it is determined that marks MK are recognized in the marking space areas  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  (step S 150 ), the main controller  110  instructs the printing unit  120  to print on the printing paper specified in the printing paper specification area  9110 , and using the number of prints specified in the marking space area  9136 , the corrected image according to the image correction levels for which marks MK were recognized in connection with the prepared image (step S 170 ).  
         [0084]     In this embodiment, where marks are not present in one or more of the marking space areas  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  as shown in the entry areas  9130  for the data names ‘GD0112’ and ‘GD0115’ in the order sheet  910  shown in  FIG. 6 , image correction is carried out only for those types of correction for which a mark MK is present. In this embodiment, the types of image correction received using the marking space areas  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  and the correction levels thereof are set in advance, but it is acceptable if the types of image correction and the correction levels thereof vary according to the characteristic amounts of the image data to which image correction is carried out (such as the average value, mode value, dynamic range, edge amount or diffusion amount).  
         [0085]     Returning to  FIG. 3 , where it is recognized that no marks MK are present in the marking space areas  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  (step S 150 ), the main controller  110  instructs the printing unit  120  to print the original image drawn directly from the read-out image data on the printing paper specified in the printing paper specification area  9110  according to the number of prints specified in the marking space  9136  (step S 155 ). After the above processing is carried out as to all images shown on the order sheet  910  (steps S 180 , S 185 ), the main controller  110  ends the image printing process shown in  FIG. 3 .  
         [0086]     According to the image printing technology of the first embodiment described above, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can issue to the printing apparatus an instruction for image processing of images to be printed using the order sheet  910 . Therefore, the convenience of image printing using the order sheet  910  can be improved. Furthermore, because marking space areas  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  to receive entry of the correction levels for the various types of image correction are present on the order sheet  910 , the user of the printing apparatus  10  can specify the correction levels applicable to the images to be printed using the order sheet  910 .  
       B. Second Embodiment (Presentation of Image Quality Level)  
       [0087]     The construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of a second embodiment are identical to the construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of the first embodiment, except that images are printed using an order sheet in which the image quality level for each of the images to be printed is shown.  
         [0088]      FIG. 8  is a flow chart showing the image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of the second embodiment. After the image data is read out in the same manner as in the first embodiment (step S 105 ), the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  analyzes the read-out image data and evaluates the image quality level of the image (step S 207 ). When the image quality level is evaluated, the characteristic amounts regarding the image data (such as the average value, mode value, dynamic range, edge amount or diffusion amount) are calculated, and such factors as blur, wobble, exposure amount and noise are evaluated as determinants of the image quality level of that image based on the calculated characteristic amounts.  
         [0089]     After the image quality level is evaluated (step S 207 ), the main controller  110  instructs the printing unit  120  to print an order sheet on which the evaluated image quality levels are shown (step S 210 ).  
         [0090]      FIG. 9  is an explanatory drawing showing an example of an order sheet  920  printed by the printing apparatus  10  of the second embodiment. Like the order sheet  910  of the first embodiment, the order sheet  920  of the second embodiment has a printing paper specification area  9210  comprising a receiving area to receive user entry of information used to specify the type of printing paper on which images are to be printed based on the image data, as well as a printing style specification area  9220  comprising a receiving area to receive user entry of information used to specify the style of printing for each image based on the image data, but it differs from the order sheet  910  in that the image quality level is indicated in each entry area  9230  of the printing style specification area  9220 .  
         [0091]      FIG. 10  is an explanatory drawing showing an enlargement of an entry area  9230  of the order sheet  920  shown in  FIG. 9 . Like the entry area  9130  of the first embodiment, the entry area  9230  of the order sheet  920  has a data name  9232  comprising an identifier to identify the name of each read-out image data item, an index image  9234  indicating an image based on such image data item, and a marking space area  9236  that receives user entry to specify the number of the number of prints of the image to be printed based on this image data, as well as marking space areas  9242 ,  9244 ,  9246  that receive specification of the correction levels for image correction to be carried out to the image to be printed, but it differs from the entry area  9130  of the first embodiment in that the image quality level of the original image is indicated in the marking space areas  9242 ,  9244 ,  9246 .  
         [0092]     In this embodiment, the evaluated image quality level is converted into evaluation values corresponding to correction levels for image correction represented in the marking space areas  9242 ,  9244 ,  9246 , and a current value mark  9250  that indicates the converted evaluation value are entered in the marking space areas  9242 ,  9244 ,  9246  to indicate the correction levels corresponding to these evaluation values. The current value marks  9250  are printed in a color that enables such marks to be clearly distinguished from marks MK during recognition of the marks MK (step S 120 ). In the example shown in  FIG. 10 , a current value mark  9250  is entered in the leftmost oval indicating the ‘High’ level in the marking space area  9242  corresponding to the image quality level for ‘Brightness’, a current value mark  9250  is entered in the second oval from the right in the marking space area  9244  corresponding to the image quality level for ‘Hue’, and a current value mark  9250  is entered in the center oval indicating the ‘Normal’ level in the marking space area  9246  corresponding to the image quality level for ‘Sharpness’. In this embodiment, the index image  9234  is the original image drawn directly from the read-out image data.  
         [0093]     Returning to  FIG. 8 , after the order sheet  920  shown in  FIG. 9  is printed (step S 210 ), the main controller  110  executes the processing including and following the scanning of the order sheet  920  (step S 115 ) in the same manner as in the image printing process of  FIG. 3  in connection with the first embodiment.  
         [0094]     According to the image printing technology of the second embodiment described above, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can instruct the printing apparatus  10  to perform image processing of images to be printed using the order sheet  920 . In addition, because current value marks  9250  expressing the current image quality level are shown in the marking space areas  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  of the order sheet  920 , the user of the printing apparatus  10  can instruct the printing apparatus  10  to perform image processing based on the order sheet  920  with reference to the image quality levels indicated thereon. Therefore, the convenience of image printing using the order sheet  910  can be improved.  
       C. Third Embodiment (Presentation of Form of Correction Based on Exposure Status Data)  
       [0095]     The construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of the third embodiment are identical to the construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of the first embodiment, except that the images are printed using an order sheet on which the form of image correction based on exposure status data included in the image data is shown.  
         [0096]      FIG. 11  is a flow chart showing the image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of the third embodiment. After the image data is read out in the same manner as in the first embodiment (step S 105 ), the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  instructs the printing unit  120  to print an order sheet on which the form of image correction based on the exposure status data included in the read-out image data is shown (step S 310 ).  
         [0097]      FIG. 12  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area  9330  of the order sheet of the third embodiment. Like the entry area  9130  of the first embodiment, the entry area  9330  of the order sheet of the third embodiment has a data name  9332  comprising an identifier to identify the name of each read-out image data item, an index image  9334  indicating an image based on such image data item, and a marking space area  9336  that receives user entry to specify the number of the number of prints of the image to be printed based on this image data, as well as marking space areas  9342 ,  9344 ,  9346  that receive specification of the correction levels for image correction to be carried out to the image to be printed, but it differs from the entry area  9130  of the first embodiment in that the index image  9334  is an image that has undergone image correction based on exposure status data included in the image data and the form of image correction that has been performed to this index image  9334  is shown in the marking space areas  9242 ,  9244 ,  9246 .  
         [0098]     In this embodiment, the exposure status data included in the image data is Exif (Exchangeable Image File Format) data, and in the case of a digital still camera, such information as the exposure mode, the white balance, the shutter speed and the aperture value are included in the exposure status data as exposure-related information pertaining to the image data. In this embodiment, the main controller  110  executes image correction according to the exposure status data based on a preset standard.  
         [0099]     In this embodiment, a correction value mark  9350  indicating the correction level for image correction carried out to the index image  9334  is formed in the marking space areas  9342 ,  9344 ,  9346  used to indicate such correction level. The correction value marks  9350  are printed in a color that enables such marks to be clearly distinguished from marks MK during recognition of marks MK. In the example shown in  FIG. 12 , a correction value mark  9350  is entered in the second oval from the right indicating the ‘Lower’ level in the marking space area  9342  corresponding to the image correction level for ‘Brightness’, a correction value mark  9350  is entered in the leftmost oval indicating ‘High’ in the marking space area  9344  corresponding to the image correction level for ‘Hue’, and a correction value mark  9350  is entered in the center oval indicating the ‘Normal’ level in the marking space area  9346  corresponding to the image correction level for ‘Sharpness’.  
         [0100]     Returning to  FIG. 11 , after the order sheet is printed (step S 310 ), the main controller  110  performs processing including and following scanning of the order sheet (step S 115 ) in the same manner as during the image printing process of  FIG. 3  in connection with the first embodiment.  
         [0101]     According to the image printing technology of the third embodiment described above, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can request that the printing apparatus  10  perform image processing of images to be printed using the order sheet  920 . In addition, because current value marks  9250  expressing the current image quality level are formed in the marking space areas  9342 ,  9344 ,  9346  of the entry areas  9330  of the order sheet, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can instruct the printing apparatus  10  to adjust the image correction based on the exposure status data using the order sheet. Therefore, the convenience of image printing using the order sheet  910  can be improved.  
       D. Fourth Embodiment (Presentation of Set of Sample Images)  
       [0102]     The construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of a fourth embodiment are identical to the construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of the first embodiment, except that images are printed using an order sheet on which a set of sample images comprising the original image subjected to various types and levels of image correction are performed is shown.  
         [0103]      FIG. 13  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of the fourth embodiment. After the image data is read out in the same manner as in the first embodiment (step S 105 ), the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  instructs the printing unit  120  to print an order sheet on which is shown sets of sample images comprising images based on the read-out image data to which various types and levels of image correction have been performed (step S 410 ).  
         [0104]      FIG. 14  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area  9430  of the order sheet of the fourth embodiment. The entry area  9430  of the order sheet of the fourth embodiment, like the entry area  9130  of the first embodiment, has a data name  9432  comprising an identifier to identify the name of each read-out image data item and a marking space area  9436  that receives user entry to specify the number of prints of the image to be printed based on this image data, but differs from the entry area  9130  of the first embodiment in that it also has a set of sample images  9440  comprising the image based on the read-out image data that has been subjected to various types and levels of image correction, as well as marking spaces  9450  corresponding to the sample images  9440 .  
         [0105]     In the example of  FIG. 14 , the set of sample images  9440  is configured in a 5×5 matrix, such that a total of 25 sample images  9440  are shown. With respect to the type of image correction applicable to each sample image  9440 , the correction level for ‘Hue’ image correction increases as one moves rightward in each row of sample images, while the correction level for ‘Brightness’ image correction increases as one moves downward in each column of sample images.  
         [0106]      FIG. 15  is an explanatory drawing showing the entry area  9430  of  FIG. 14  in which information used to print an image is entered by the user. In the example of  FIG. 15 , a mark MK indicating that two prints are to be printed is entered in the marking space area  9136  that receives specification of the number of prints to be printed, and a mark MK indicating the image in the third row, fourth column of the set of sample images  9440  is entered in the marking space  9450  that receives the specification of the type and level of correction applicable to the image to be printed. In this case, the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  prints two prints of a corrected image that has undergone correction according to the correction levels corresponding to the third row, fourth column of the set of sample images (step S 170 ).  
         [0107]     According to the image printing process of the fourth embodiment described above, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can request that the printing apparatus  10  perform image processing of images to be printed using an order sheet. In addition, because the order sheet entry area  9430  has sets of sample images indicating various combinations of correction types and levels as well as marking spaces  9450  corresponding to these sample images  9440 , the user of the printing apparatus  10  can select the types and levels of image correction with reference to the sample images. Therefore, the convenience of image printing using the order sheet  910  can be improved.  
       E. Fifth Embodiment (Specification of Types of Correction)  
       [0108]     The construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of a fifth embodiment are identical to the construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of the first embodiment, except that specification of the correction levels is received from the user after the correction types are specified via the order sheet.  
         [0109]      FIG. 16  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of the fifth embodiment. After the image data is read out in the same manner as in the first embodiment (step S 105 ), the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  instructs the printing unit  120  to print an order sheet that receives specification of the types of image correction to be carried out based on the read-out image data (step S 510 ).  
         [0110]      FIG. 17  is an explanatory drawing showing the entry area  9530  of the order sheet of the fifth embodiment. Like the entry area  9130  of the order sheet of the first embodiment, the entry area  9530  of the order sheet of the fifth embodiment has a data name  9532  comprising an identifier to identify the name of the read-out image data item, an index image  9534  that indicates the image based on the image data and a marking space area  9536  that receives specification of the number of prints of the image to be printed based on the image data, but it differs from the entry area  9130  of the order sheet of the first embodiment in that instead of the marking space areas  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  that receive specification of correction levels, it has a marking space area  9540  that receives specification of the types of image correction to be performed to the image to be printed. In the example of  FIG. 17 , the marking space area  9540  that receives specification of the types of image correction comprises four ovals corresponding to the four types of image correction‘Brightness’, ‘Hue’, ‘Sharpness’ and ‘Trimming’.  
         [0111]      FIG. 18  is an explanatory drawing showing the entry area  9530  of  FIG. 17  in which information used to print the image is entered. In the example of  FIG. 15 , a mark MK indicating one print is entered in the marking space area  9536  that receives specification of the number of prints, while a mark MK indicating ‘Trimming’ is entered as the type of image correction in the marking space area  9540 .  
         [0112]     Returning to  FIG. 16 , when it is decided that the prepared image is to be printed (step S 140 ), the main controller  110  determines whether or not one or more marks MK is recognized in the marking space area  9540  that receives specification of the types of image correction (step S 550 ). If it is determined that one or more marks MK is recognized in the marking space area  9540  (step S 550 ), the main controller  110  displays on the display unit  160  a screen used to receive from the user specification of the correction level regarding each type of image correction represented by the mark(s) MK entered in the marking space area  9540  and receives from the user via the input button  170  specification of the correction level(s), correction areas or the like (step S 572 ). The main controller  110  then performs printing of the corrected image that underwent the type(s) of image correction represented by the mark(s) MK entered in the marking space area  9540  according to the correction level(s) received from the user (step S 574 ).  
         [0113]     According to the image printing process of the fifth embodiment described above, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can request that the printing apparatus  10  perform image processing of images to be printed using an order sheet. In addition, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can specify the types of image correction using the order sheet. Furthermore, after specifying the types of image correction using the order sheet, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can issue an instruction to the printing apparatus  10  regarding the correction level for each specified type of image correction. Therefore, the convenience of image printing using the order sheet  910  can be improved.  
       F. Sixth Embodiment (Specification of Correction Areas)  
       [0114]     The construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of a sixth embodiment are identical to the construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of the first embodiment, except that specification regarding the areas to be corrected on the image can be received using an order sheet.  
         [0115]      FIG. 19  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of the sixth embodiment. After the image data is read out in the same manner as in the first embodiment (step S 105 ), the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  instructs the printing unit  120  to print an order sheet that receives specification of the types of image correction to be performed to the image drawn based on the read-out image data (step S 610 ).  
         [0116]      FIG. 20  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area  9630  of the order sheet of the sixth embodiment. Like the entry area  9130  of the first embodiment, the entry area  9630  of the order sheet of the sixth embodiment has a data name  9632  indicating an identifier for the image data, an index image that indicates the image based on the image data, and a marking space area that receives specification of the number of prints of the image to be printed based on the image data, but it differs from the entry area  9130  of the order sheet of the first embodiment in that instead of the marking space areas  9142 ,  9144 ,  9146  that receive specification of correction levels, it has a marking space area  9640  that receives specification of the types of image correction to be performed to the image to be printed. In the example of  FIG. 20 , the marking space area  9640  that receives specification of the types of image correction comprises three ovals that are aligned vertically and correspond to the three types of image correction ‘Trimming’, ‘Red-eye Correction’, and ‘White point specification’, respectively.  
         [0117]      FIG. 21  is an explanatory drawing showing the entry area  9630  of  FIG. 20  in which information used to print the image is entered by the user. In the example of  FIG. 21 , a mark MK indicating two prints is entered in the marking space area  9636  that receives specification of the number of prints, a mark MK indicating ‘Red-eye correction’ is entered as the type of image correction in the marking space area  9640  that receives specification of the types of image correction, and round marks MKc that surround the correction areas on the image that are to undergo ‘Red-eye correction’ are entered directly onto the index image  9634 . In the example of  FIG. 21 , the marks MKc surround both eyes in the image shown in the index image  9634 . The marks MKc are not limited to a circular configuration, and the marks MKc may have a rectangular configuration, for example, such as where ‘Trimming’ is selected as the type of image correction.  
         [0118]     Returning to  FIG. 19 , after the order sheet is scanned (step S 115 ), the main controller  110  recognizes the marks MK entered in the various marking spaces and the marks MKc entered on the index image  9634  (step S 620 ). The marks MKc may be recognized via analysis of the color differences between the printed order sheet and the scanned order sheet, or via extraction of a specific color on the scanned order sheet.  
         [0119]     When it is decided to print the prepared image (step S 140 ), the main controller  110  determines whether or not one or more marks MK are recognized in the marking space area  9640  that receives specification of the types of image correction (step S 650 ). If it is determined that one or more marks MK are recognized in the marking space area  9640  (step S 650 ), the main controller  110  prints the corrected image comprising the index image  9634  that has undergone image correction corresponding to the mark(s) MK entered in the marking space area  9640  at the correction areas indicated by the marks MKc entered thereon (step S 670 ).  
         [0120]     According to the image printing process of the sixth embodiment described above, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can request that the printing apparatus  10  perform image processing of images to be printed using an order sheet. In addition, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can specify the correction area(s) on the image using the order sheet. Therefore, the convenience of image printing using an order sheet can be improved.  
       G. Seventh Embodiment (Modification of Correction Levels)  
       [0121]     The construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of a seventh embodiment are identical to the construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of the first embodiment, except that it is indicated on the order sheet whether or not the correction levels are to be modified prior to printing.  
         [0122]      FIG. 22  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of the seventh embodiment. After the image data is read out in the same manner as in the first embodiment (step S 105 ), the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  instructs the printing unit  120  to print an order sheet that receives entry regarding whether or not modification of the correction levels is required (step S 710 ).  
         [0123]      FIG. 23  is an explanatory drawing showing an example of the order sheet  970  printed by the main controller  110  of the seventh embodiment. The order sheet  970  of  FIG. 21  is identical to the order sheet  910  of the first embodiment, except that it has a marking space area  9740  that receives input regarding whether or not the correction levels are to be modified prior to printing.  
         [0124]     Returning to  FIG. 22 , where it is determined that a mark MK is recognized in the marking space areas that receive specification of correction levels (step S 150 ) as well as in the marking space area  9740  (step S 772 ), the main controller  110  displays the corrected image on the display unit  160 , and modification of the correction levels is received from the user via the input button  170  (step S 774 ). The main controller  110  then executes printing of the corrected image that reflects the correction level modifications received from the user (step S 776 ).  
         [0125]     According to the image printing process of the seventh embodiment described above, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can request that the printing apparatus  10  perform image processing of images to be printed using an order sheet. In addition, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can obtain a printing of images to which desired image correction is performed while checking the index images to which image correction has been performed and instructing that such image correction be modified. Furthermore, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can select whether or not he will modify the corrected images using the order sheet. Therefore, the convenience of image printing using an order sheet can be improved.  
       H. Eighth Embodiment (Specification of Types of Correction for Sample Image)  
       [0126]     The construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of an eighth embodiment are identical to the construction and operation of the printing apparatus  10  of the first embodiment, except that after selection of the types of image correction to be performed to a set of sample images is received using an order sheet, a different order sheet that displays the set of sample images is printed.  
         [0127]      FIG. 24  is a flow chart showing an image printing process executed by the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  of the eighth embodiment. After the image data is read out in the same manner as in the first embodiment (step S 105 ), the main controller  110  of the printing apparatus  10  instructs the printing unit  120  to print an order sheet on which the types and levels of image correction based on the exposure status data included in the read-out image data are displayed, as in the third embodiment (step S 810 ).  
         [0128]      FIG. 25  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area  9335  of the order sheet of the eighth embodiment. The entry area  9335  of the order sheet of the eighth embodiment is identical to the entry area  9330  shown in  FIG. 12 , except that it has marking space areas  9342 ,  9344 ,  9346 ,  9347  that receive specification of correction levels for image correction to be performed to the image to be printed, as well as a marking space area  9360  that has marking spaces that correspond to these respective marking space areas and receives selection of the types of image correction to be performed. In the example shown in  FIG. 25 , ‘Brightness’, ‘Hue’, ‘Sharpness’ and ‘Saturation’ are shown as available types of image correction.  
         [0129]     Returning to  FIG. 24 , after the order sheet is printed (step S 810 ), the main controller  110  scans the order sheet filled out by the user (step S 812 ) and recognizes the marks MK entered in the entry area  9335  (step S 814 ). The main controller  110  then determines whether or not one or more correction types is selected, i.e., whether or not one or more marks MK is present in the marking space area  9360  that receives selection of the types of image correction (step S 816 ).  
         [0130]     Where one or more types of image correction is selected, i.e., where one or more marks MK exists in the marking space area  9360  (step S 816 ), the main controller  110  prints a different order sheet on which are shown sample images that have undergone the types of image correction corresponding to the entered marks MK (step S 818 ).  
         [0131]     In this embodiment, where the two correction types of ‘Brightness’ and ‘Sharpness’ are specified, as in the example shown in  FIG. 25 , a set of sample images  9440  is displayed such that they are aligned vertically in the order of level of correction regarding one type of image correction while aligned horizontally in the order of level of correction regarding the other type of image correction, as in the case of the order sheet shown in  FIG. 14 .  
         [0132]      FIG. 26  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area  9435  of the order sheet of the eighth embodiment where a single type of correction is specified. In the example of  FIG. 26 , ‘Brightness’ is specified as the correction type, and a set of sample images  9440  is shown such that the correction level for image correction increases as one moves rightward along the row.  FIG. 26  shows a case in which ‘Brightness’ is specified as the correction type, but it is alternatively acceptable if, where the printing apparatus  10  includes an automatic image quality adjustment function that automatically adjusts the image quality of the image to be printed to an appropriate level, for example, the printing apparatus  10  receives an image printing instruction using an order sheet on which is shown a set of sample images  9440  having changed ‘Automatic image quality adjustment’ correction levels.  
         [0133]     Where two or more marks MK are entered in the marking space area  9360  that receives selection of the types of image correction, it is acceptable if sample images  9440  are generated for the two topmost correction types from among the selected items, or if sample images  9440  are generated for the correction types having the highest priority according to a preset priority scheme for correction types.  
         [0134]     According to the image printing process of the eighth embodiment described above, the user of the printing apparatus  10  can, using an order sheet, request the printing of a different order sheet on which a set of sample images  9440  is shown, as well as select the types of correction to be performed to this set of sample images  9440 .  
       I. Other Embodiment  
       [0135]     While embodiments of the invention were described above, the invention is not limited to these embodiments, and naturally may be realized in various forms falling within the scope of the claims herein and not deviating from the essential scope of the invention. For example, the marking space areas that receive specification of correction levels need not comprise a group of ovals arranged in order, and may comprise graduated lines, or frames in which a number is entered.  FIG. 27  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area  9830  of a different embodiment.  FIG. 28  is an explanatory drawing showing the entry area  9830  of the different embodiment shown in  FIG. 27  in which information used for printing of the image is entered by the user. In  FIGS. 27 and 28 , the marking space areas  9842 ,  9844 ,  9846  are graduated lines, and a round mark MKs is entered by hand on the line, as shown in  FIG. 28 . Furthermore, the invention may be applied in a computer system that includes a personal computer, printing apparatus and scanning device, where image data stored on the personal computer is to be printed using the printing apparatus.  
         [0136]     In the sixth embodiment, it is acceptable if ‘Backlight correction’ is added to ‘Trimming’, ‘Red-eye correction’ and ‘White point specification’ as a type of image correction.  FIG. 29  is an explanatory drawing showing an entry area of an order sheet of a different embodiment in which backlight correction can be specified. The entry area  9635  is identical to the entry area  9630  of the sixth embodiment shown in  FIG. 20 , except that it includes a marking space area  9645  that receives specification of the types of image correction. The marking space area  9645  comprises four ovals vertically aligned that correspond to the four types of image correction of ‘Trimming’, ‘Red-eye correction’, ‘White point specification’ and ‘Backlight correction’, respectively. In the example of  FIG. 29 , a mark MK indicating ‘Backlight correction’ is entered as a type of image correction in the marking space area  9645  that receives specification of the image correction types, and marks MKc that surround the faces of the persons who appear dark due to being backlit in the photo are entered directly on the index image  9634 . In this embodiment, the degree of backlight correction is selected based on the brightness and darkness of the skin color areas surrounded by the marks MKc.