Patent ID: 12200346

MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, (a) preferred embodiment(s) of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the appended drawings. In this specification and the appended drawings, structural elements that have substantially the same function and structure are denoted with the same reference numerals, and repeated explanation of these structural elements is omitted.

Moreover, the description will be made in the following order.1. First Embodiment1.1. System configuration1.2. Functional configuration1.3. Hardware configuration1.4. Conclusion2. Second Embodiment2.1. Overview2.2. Configuration of operation screen and operation method2.3. Process2.4. Examples2.4.1. Example 2-1: example of slider2.4.2. Example 2-2: cooperation with operation unit of imaging device2.5. Conclusion3. Third Embodiment3.1. Overview3.2. Process3.3. Example 33.4. Conclusion4. Conclusion

1. FIRST EMBODIMENT

1.1. System Configuration

First, a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference toFIG.1.FIG.1is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a schematic system configuration of an information processing system1according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the information processing system1according to the present embodiment includes an information processing terminal10and an imaging device30. The imaging device30is equivalent to a device that captures an image such as a still image or a moving image, as in a so-called digital camera. In addition, the information processing terminal10is equivalent to a user terminal, as in a so-called smartphone.

The information processing terminal10and the imaging device30are connected to be able to communicate with each other via a wireless network n11. As a specific example of the network n11, a network based on the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) standard can be exemplified. For example, when the network n11based on the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) standard is applied, one of the information processing terminal10and the imaging device30operates as an access point and the other thereof is connected to the one thereof as a station.

In particular, the information processing terminal10according to the present embodiment is configured to be able to control an operation (for example, an operation related to capturing of an image) of the imaging device30connected via the network n11. That is, the imaging device30can capture an image such as a moving image or a still image based on an instruction transmitted from the information processing terminal10via the network n11. Moreover, the function can be realized, for example, by installing an application generated using an application programming interface (API) that controls an operation of the imaging device30via the network in the information processing terminal10. Of course, an application that realizes the function may be embedded in advance in the information processing terminal10.

Moreover, an example of a case in which the information processing terminal10is a smartphone will be described below. However, the information processing terminal10is not necessarily limited to a smartphone. As a specific example, a device which can be connected to the imaging device30via a wireless network, as in a remote controller, may be applied as the information processing terminal10.

With such a configuration, a device in which an input and output interface is restricted (for example, simplified or excluded) can be used as the imaging device30. For example,FIGS.1and2illustrate an example of the imaging device30in which an input and output interface is restricted. In the example illustrated inFIG.2, an output interface such as a liquid crystal display is excluded from the imaging device30and an operation interface is also restricted on the premise that the information processing terminal10is used as an interface for an operation related to capturing of an image.

In addition, the imaging device30may be configured to be detachably mounted on the information processing terminal10. In the example illustrated inFIG.2, as a specific example, an attachment fixing (or holding) the imaging device30to the information processing terminal10is installed in the information processing terminal10or the imaging device30so that the imaging device30can be mounted on the information processing terminal10.

In this way, when the imaging device30is mounted on the information processing terminal10, a user can use the imaging device30like a so-called digital camera in which an input and output interface is not restricted.

In addition, as another example, the imaging device30and the information processing terminal10connected via the network n11may be used in a mutually separated state (that is, a state in which the imaging device30is not mounted on the information processing terminal10). In this way, when the imaging device30and the information processing terminal10are used in the mutually separated state, the imaging device30and the information processing terminal10can also operate without restriction on mutual physical positions.

Moreover, the example of the imaging device30illustrated inFIGS.1and2is merely an example and the configuration of the imaging device30according to the present embodiment is not necessarily limited. That is, for example, a general imaging device including an input and output interface such as a liquid crystal display may be used as the imaging device30as long as the device can communicate with the information processing terminal10via the network n11.

1.2. Functional Configuration

Next, an example of a functional configuration of the information processing system1according to the present embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.3.FIG.3is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system1according to the present embodiment. As illustrated inFIG.3, the information processing terminal10includes a control unit11, a communication unit13, and a UI15. In addition, the imaging device30includes a control unit31, a communication unit33, an imaging unit35, a storage unit37, and an operation unit39.

The communication unit13is a communication interface through which each configuration of the information processing terminal10communicates with the imaging device30via the wireless network n11. As a specific example of the network n11, as described above, a network based on the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) standard can be exemplified.

Moreover, hereinafter, when each configuration of the information processing terminal10transmits and receives data to and from the imaging device30via the network n11, the data is assumed to be transmitted and received via the communication unit13unless otherwise mentioned.

The UI15is a user interface with which the user operates the information processing terminal10. The UI15may include a display unit151through which the information processing terminal10such as a display presents information to the user and an operation unit153, such as a button or a touch panel, through which the user operates the information processing terminal10.

The control unit11is configured to be able to control an operation of the imaging device30connected via the network n11. The control unit11includes a process execution unit111and a display control unit113.

The process execution unit111controls an operation of the imaging device30by executing an application generated based on an API through which the imaging device30is operated via the network n11in response to an instruction from the user via the operation unit153. Moreover, the process execution unit111is equivalent to an example of a “process control unit.”

The display control unit113causes the display unit151to display an operation screen presented by a component (a graphical user interface (GUI)) through which the imaging device30is operated via the network n11. In addition, the display control unit113acquires an image captured by the imaging device30from the imaging device30via the network n11and causes the display unit151to display the acquired image. Moreover, in the display control unit113, a configuration that acquires an image from the imaging device30is equivalent to an example of an “acquisition unit.”

As a specific example, the control unit11may instruct the imaging device30to capture an image via the network n11based on an instruction from the user via the UI15. In this case, the control unit11may acquire captured images from the imaging device30via the network n11as a response to the instruction. In addition, the control unit11may present an image acquired from the imaging device30to the user via the UI15.

In particular, the control unit11according to the present disclosure may cause the imaging device30to capture a plurality of still images as a series of images, as in continuous photography (so-called continuous shoot) or bracket photography. Here, the bracket photography refers to a capturing method of capturing a plurality of still images while changing imaging conditions such as exposure, white balance, and ISO sensitivity. In addition, the control unit11according to the present disclosure may cause the imaging device30to capture a moving image as a series of images.

Moreover, an operation screen which is presented to the user via the display unit151in order for the control unit11to cause the imaging device30to capture a moving image or a plurality of still images as a series of images will be described later in a second embodiment. In addition, an example of a method in which the control unit11presents a series of images captured by the imaging device30to the user via the display unit151will be described later in a third embodiment.

In addition, the control unit11may instruct the imaging device30to output a through image via the network n11based on an instruction from the user via the UI15. In this case, the control unit11sequentially acquires captured through images from the imaging device30via the network n11as a response to the instruction. Then, the control unit11may sequentially present the acquired through images to the user via the UI15.

In addition, the control unit11may refer to or update various kinds of information retained in the imaging device30via the network n11. As a specific example, the control unit11may acquire information indicating various kinds of settings such as imaging conditions retained in the imaging device30from the imaging device30via the network n11and may present the acquired information to the user via the UI15. In addition, the control unit11may instruct the imaging device30to update the information indicating the various kinds of settings retained in the imaging device30via the network n11based on an instruction from the user via the UI15.

The communication unit33is a communication interface through which each configuration of the imaging device30communicates with the information processing terminal10via the wireless network n11. As a specific example of the network n11, as described above, a network based on the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) standard can be exemplified.

Moreover, hereinafter, when each configuration of the imaging device30transmits and receives data to and from the information processing terminal10via the network n11, the data is assumed to be transmitted and received via the communication unit33unless otherwise mentioned.

The imaging unit35includes an image sensor and captures an image such as a still image or a moving image of a subject based on an instruction from the control unit31to be described below. The image sensor is, for example, an imaging element such as complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor or a charge coupled device (CCD) image sensor that images a subject and obtains digital data of the captured image. The imaging unit35may record the captured image on the storage unit37. In addition, the imaging unit35may output the captured image directly to the control unit31.

In addition, the imaging unit35may capture an image based on imaging conditions instructed from the control unit31. As specific examples of the imaging conditions, exposure based on a diaphragm or shutter speed, a magnification ratio such as an optical zoom or a digital zoom, ISO sensitivity, and white balance can be exemplified.

In addition, the imaging unit35may capture so-called through images (for example, decimated images) based on an instruction from the control unit31and sequentially output the captured through images to the control unit31.

The storage unit37is a recording medium that records captured images. The storage unit37can be configured as a recording medium contained in the imaging device30. In addition, the storage unit37may be configured as an external recording medium which can be detachably mounted on the imaging device30.

Moreover, in the example illustrated inFIG.3, a configuration example in which the imaging device30contains the imaging unit35is illustrated, but the imaging unit35may be installed outside of the imaging device30. Similarly, in the example illustrated inFIG.3, a configuration example in which the imaging device30contains the storage unit37is illustrated, but the storage unit37may be installed outside of the imaging device30.

The operation unit39is configured so that the user can operate the imaging device30. As a specific example of the operation unit39, an input device such as a button or a switch can be exemplified.

The control unit31is configured to be able to control an operation of the imaging unit35based on an instruction from a user via at least one of the operation unit39and the information processing terminal10connected via the network n11. The control unit31includes a process execution unit311and a transmission control unit313.

The process execution unit311receives an instruction from the information processing terminal10via the network n11and executes a function corresponding to this instruction to control an operation of the imaging unit35. In addition, the process execution unit311receives an operation of the operation unit39by the user and executes a function in associated in advance with the operation unit39to control an operation of the imaging unit35.

Moreover, the process execution unit311may switch control content of an operation of the imaging unit35according to various operation modes such as continuous photography (so-called continuous shoot), bracket photography, and moving-image photography. In this case, for example, the process execution unit311may execute a function according to a preset operation mode to realize control according to the operation mode.

In addition, according to a state of the imaging device30, the process execution unit311may restrict (suppress) execution of a function according to at least some of the operation modes. For example, in continuous photography (continuous shoot), bracket photography, and moving-image photography, a larger storage region is necessary to retain or record a series of captured images than when one still image is captured. Therefore, the process execution unit311may restrict (suppress) an operation in a mode in which a moving image or a plurality of still images are captured, for example, in a state in which it is difficult for the imaging device30to ensure a storage region equal to or greater than a pre-decided capacity. Moreover, as an example of the state in which it is difficult for the imaging device30to ensure a storage region equal to or greater than the pre-decided capacity, a state in which an external recording medium is not mounted on the imaging device30or a state in which an empty region of a recording medium (for example, the storage unit37) is not sufficient can be exemplified.

The transmission control unit313acquires an image (a still image, a moving image, or a through image) captured by the imaging unit35under the control of the process execution unit311and transmits the acquired image to the information processing terminal10via the network n11. In addition, in the transmission control unit313, a configuration that acquires an image from the imaging unit35is equivalent to an example of an “acquisition unit.”

Moreover, when an operation of the imaging unit35is controlled in an operation mode in which a moving image or a plurality of still images are captured as a series of images, the transmission control unit313according to the present disclosure first transmits thumbnail images of the series of captured images to the information processing terminal10. Then, the transmission control unit313transmits only at least some of the images instructed from the information processing terminal10among the series of images to the information processing terminal10. In addition, the details of a process related to the transmission of the series of images by the transmission control unit313will be described separately in the third embodiment.

The example of the functional configuration of the information processing system1according to the embodiment has been described above with reference toFIG.3.

1.3. Hardware Configuration

Next, an example of a hardware configuration of the information processing terminal10according to the present embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.4.FIG.4is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing terminal10according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.4, the information processing terminal10according to the present embodiment includes a processor901, a memory903, a storage905, an operation device907, a display device909, a communication device913, and a bus915. In addition, the information processing terminal10may include a notification device911.

The processor901is, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a system on chip (SoC) and executes various processes of the information processing terminal10. The processor901can be configured of, for example, an electronic circuit that executes various calculation processes. Moreover, the above-described control unit11can be realized by the processor901.

The memory903includes a random access memory (RAM) and a read-only memory (ROM) and stores programs and data which are executed by the processor901. The storage905can include a storage medium such as a semiconductor memory or a hard disk.

The operation device907has a function of generating an input signal so that the user can execute a desired operation. The operation device907may be configured to include, for example, an input unit such as a touch panel, a button, or a switch through which the user inputs information and an input control circuit which generates an input signal based on an input by the user and supplies the input signal to the processor901. For example, the above-described operation unit153can be configured of the operation device907.

The display device909is an example of an output device and may be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) device or an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. In this case, the display device909can notify the user of predetermined information by displaying a screen. In addition, the above-described display unit151can be configured of the display device909.

The notification device911may be a device that notifies the user of predetermined information by a lighting or blinking pattern, as in light emitting diode (LED). In addition, the notification device911may be a device that notifies the user of predetermined information by outputting a predetermined acoustic signal, as in a speaker.

The communication device913is communication means included in the information processing terminal10and communicates with an external device via a network. The communication device913is a wired or wireless communication interface. When the communication device913is configured as a wireless communication interface, the communication device913may include a communication antenna, a radio frequency (RF) circuit, and a baseband processor.

The communication device913has a function of executing various kinds of signal processing on a signal received from an external device and can supply a digital signal generated from a received analog signal to the processor901. Moreover, the above-described communication unit13can be configured of the communication device913.

The bus915connects the processor901, the memory903, the storage905, the operation device907, the display device909, the notification device911, and the communication device913to each other. The bus915may include a plurality of kinds of buses.

In addition, a program that causes hardware such as a processor, a memory, and a storage contained in a computer to execute the same functions as the configuration of the above-described information processing terminal10can also be generated. In addition, a computer-readable storage medium recording the program can also be supplied.

1.4. Conclusion

The description has been made with reference toFIGS.1to4according to the first embodiment mainly focusing on the various configurations of the information system according to the present disclosure. Moreover, the details of operation screens of the information processing system according to the present disclosure and processes related to transmission of images between the information processing terminal10and the imaging device30will be described below according to the second and third embodiments.

2. SECOND EMBODIMENT

2.1. Overview

Next, an example of an operation screen for capturing images in the information processing system1according to the above-described first embodiment will be described according to the second embodiment. In the present embodiment, an example of an operation screen for capturing a plurality of still images as a series of images via a GUI in a so-called digital camera such as the imaging device30, as in an operation via a touch panel installed as a UI on the information processing terminal10or the like, will be described.

Accordingly, a task of the present embodiment will be first summarized to further simplify characteristics of the operation screen according to the present embodiment.

In an imaging device such as a so-called digital camera, the position of a focus of an imaging optical system for imaging a subject is controlled by an autofocus function (hereinafter referred to as an “AF function” in some cases) of pushing a shutter button halfway (a so-called half-push), and then an image is captured by pushing the shutter button fully (a so-called full-push). Moreover, hereinafter, a state in which the shutter button is pushed halfway is referred to as a “half-push state” and a state in which the shutter button is pushed fully is referred to as a “full-push state” in some cases.

Here, an example of an operation screen for capturing an image in the imaging device30while the AF function is operated through an operation via a GUI, as in an operation via a touch panel, will be described exemplifying a case in which one still image is captured. For example,FIG.5illustrates an example of an operation screen when one still image is captured while an AF function in the imaging device30is operated through an operation via a GUI. In the example illustrated inFIG.5, the information processing terminal10causes the display unit151to display an operation screen on which a shutter button v80is displayed as an interface controlling an operation of the imaging device30.

Next, an example of an operation method of capturing an image in the imaging device30while the AF function is operated based on the operation screen illustrated inFIG.5will be described with reference toFIG.6.FIG.6is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the operation method when one still image is captured while the AF function in the imaging device30is operated through an operation via the GUI.

In the example illustrated inFIG.6, as illustrated in the left drawing, when the user selects (for example, touches) the shutter button v80using an operation object u11such as a finger, the information processing terminal10first causes the imaging device30to operate the AF function while the selected state is maintained (that is, the selected state is held). At this time, the imaging device30decides a focus position v60in an image v70acquired via an imaging optical system or an imaging element based on a pre-decided setting of the AF function and controls a focus position of the imaging optical system such that focusing is achieved at the focus position v60.

Then, as illustrated in the right drawing, when the user cancels the selected state of the shutter button v80(for example, cancels the holding state), the information processing terminal10causes the imaging device30to capture a still image.

In this way, because it is difficult to realize a half-push and a full-push using a shutter button of a so-called digital camera in an operation via a GUI, for example, a so-called holding operation is associated with a half-push state and cancellation of the holding operation is associated with a full-push state.

On the other hand, when an imaging device such as a so-called digital camera captures a plurality of still images while the AF function is operated (for example, in a continuous shoot mode), the AF function is operated in a half-push state, and image capturing, that is, continuous shoot, starts when the state transitions to the full-push state. Then, the imaging device continues the started continuous shoot as long as the full-push state is maintained and ends the continued continuous shoot with cancellation of the full-push state, that is, a change to a state in which the shutter button is not pushed. That is, in the imaging device, three operations, the “operation of the AF function,” the “start of the continuous shoot,” and the “end of the continuous shoot,” are realized in accordance with three states, the “half-push state,” the “maintenance of the full-push state,” and the “cancellation of the full-push state.”

Meanwhile, in the operation screen and the operation method illustrated inFIGS.5and6, the AF function is operated by executing the holding operation on the shutter button v80displayed on the display unit151, as described above, and images are captured by cancelling the holding operation. That is, in the examples illustrated inFIGS.5and6, only two states, the “holding operation” and the “cancellation of the holding operation” on the shutter button v80, can be expressed, and thus it is difficult to realize three operations, the “operation of the AF function,” the “start of the continuous shoot”, and the “end of the continuous shoot.”

Accordingly, in the present embodiment, examples of an operation screen for capturing a plurality of still images as a series of images while the AF function in the imaging device30is operated through an operation via a GUI and an operation method based on the operation screen will be proposed. Moreover, examples of an operation screen and an operation method according to the embodiment will be described in detail below.

2.2. Configuration of Operation Screen and Operation Method

First, an example of an operation screen for capturing a plurality of still images as a series of images in the imaging device30while the AF function is operated through an operation via a GUI displayed on the display unit151will be described as an operation screen according to the present embodiment with reference toFIG.7.FIG.7is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the operation screen for capturing a plurality of still images as a series of images while the AF function in the imaging device30is operated through the operation via the GUI. Moreover, in the following description, the short direction of the display unit151of the information processing terminal10is assumed to be the x axis and the long direction thereof is assumed to be the y axis in the description. That is, inFIG.7, the horizontal direction of the drawing is equivalent to the x axis and the vertical direction of the drawing is equivalent to the y axis.

In the example illustrated inFIG.7, in the case of an operation mode in which a plurality of still images are captured as a series of image (for example, a continuous shoot mode), the information processing terminal10causes the display unit151to display an operation screen on which a slider v10is displayed as an interface for controlling an operation of the imaging device30. The slider v10is configured such that a display object v11can be moved among a plurality of positions set in predetermined directions on the display unit151. For example, in the example illustrated inFIG.7, positions v120and v121are set along the x axis and the display object v11is configured to be movable between the positions v120and v121along the x axis.

In addition, as illustrated inFIG.7, an icon v111indicating an operation mode (for example, a continuous shoot mode) of the imaging device30may be presented in the display object v11.

Next, an example of an operation method of capturing a plurality of still images as a series of images while the AF function in the imaging device30is operated based on the operation screen illustrated inFIG.7will be described with reference toFIG.8.FIG.8is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the operation method when the plurality of still images are captured as the series of images while the AF function in the imaging device30is operated through an operation via the GUI.

In the example illustrated inFIG.8, first, as illustrated in the left drawing, the information processing terminal10does not start controlling an operation related to capturing of images by the imaging device30in a state in which the display object v11is located at the position v120. Moreover, hereinafter, the position v120is referred to as an “initial position v120” in some cases.

As illustrated in the left drawing, when the user selects (for example, touches) the display object v11located at the initial position v120using the operation object u11such as a finger and the selected state is maintained (that is, held), the information processing terminal10causes the imaging device30to operate the AF function. At this time, for example, the imaging device30decides the focus position v60in the image v70acquired via the imaging optical system and the imaging element based on the pre-decided setting of the AF function and controls a focus position of the imaging optical system such that focusing is achieved at the focus position v60. Moreover, a state in which the imaging device30executes the focus control based on the AF function in this way is equivalent to an example of a “photography preparation state.”

Subsequently, as illustrated in the middle drawing, when the user moves the display object v11of which the selected state is maintained so that the display object v11is slid toward the position v121, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to start an operation based on a pre-decided operation mode (hereinafter referred to as a “predetermined operation mode” in some cases). In other words, when the information processing terminal10detects an operation of moving the display object v11to the position v121, the information processing terminal10starts controlling an operation of the imaging device30based on the predetermined operation mode.

For example, in the example illustrated inFIG.8, an operation mode in which a plurality of still images are captured as a series of images (for example, a continuous shoot mode) is set as the predetermined operation mode. Therefore, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to start capturing images in the continuous shoot mode. The imaging device30receiving the instruction from the information processing terminal10starts capturing the images in the continuous shoot mode and continues an operation related to the capturing of the images until the imaging device30is instructed to end the capturing of the images in the continuous shoot mode. Moreover, for example, the operation mode may be configured to be appropriately changed based on an advance operation by the user.

Then, as illustrated in the right drawing, when the user moves the display object v11located at the position v121to the initial position v120again, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to end the operation (that is, the operation of giving the instruction to start previously) based on the continued predetermined operation mode. In other words, when the information processing terminal10detects the operation of moving the display object v11to the initial position v120, the information processing terminal10ends the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the previously started predetermined operation mode.

Next, an example of a display position of the slider v10in an operation screen displayed on the display unit151will be described in more detail with reference toFIG.9.FIG.9is an explanatory diagram illustrating the example of the display position of the slider v10in the operation screen and illustrates an example of a display position of the slider v10when the information processing terminal10is maintained in the vertical orientation and when the information processing terminal10is maintained in the horizontal orientation. Moreover, in the example illustrated inFIG.9, the x axis indicates the short direction of the display unit151and the y axis indicates the long direction of the display unit151.

For example, the left drawing of the example illustrated inFIG.9illustrates the information processing terminal10which is maintained in the vertical orientation. Here, the state in which the information processing terminal10is maintained in the vertical orientation refers to a state in which the information processing terminal10is maintained so that the long direction (that is, the y axis) of the display unit151is the vertical direction when viewed by the user. As illustrated in the left drawing ofFIG.9, when the information processing terminal10is maintained in the vertical orientation, for example, the slider v10is displayed near the lower end of the display unit151so that the display object v11can be moved in the right and left directions.

Similarly, the right drawing of the example illustrated inFIG.9illustrates the information processing terminal10which is maintained in the horizontal orientation. Here, the state in which the information processing terminal10is maintained in the horizontal orientation refers to a state in which the information processing terminal10is maintained so that the short direction (that is, the x axis) of the display unit151is the vertical direction when viewed by the user. As illustrated in the right drawing ofFIG.9, when the information processing terminal10is maintained in the horizontal orientation, for example, the slider v10is displayed near the right end of the display unit151so that the display object v11can be moved in the upward and downward directions.

In this way, in the example illustrated inFIG.9, when the information processing terminal10is maintained in either the vertical orientation or the horizontal orientation, the slider v10is displayed near any end portion in the long direction (the y axis) of the display unit151so that the display object v11can be moved in the short direction (the x axis) of the display unit151. In other words, for example, when the information processing terminal10is maintained in either the vertical orientation or the horizontal orientation, the slider v10is displayed on the display unit151at a predetermined relative position with respect to the display unit151. In such a configuration, when the information processing terminal10is maintained in either the vertical orientation or the horizontal orientation, the user can intuitively recognize the display position of the slider v10.

Moreover, the example illustrated inFIG.9is merely an example and the display position of the slider v10is not limited. As a specific example, when the information processing terminal10is maintained in either the vertical orientation or the horizontal orientation, the slider v10may be displayed normally in a given orientation when viewed by the user.

Next, examples of display control of the slider v10based on a user operation through the operation object u11and an operation of the information processing terminal10accompanied with the display control of the slider v10will be described in more detail with reference toFIGS.10and11.FIGS.10and11are explanatory diagrams illustrating the examples of the display control of the slider v10based on the user operation and the operation of the information processing terminal10accompanied with the display control of the slider v10.

Moreover, bothFIGS.10and11illustrate cases in which the display object v11is operated using the operation object u11so that the display object v11of the slider v10is moved from the initial position v120to the position v121. The example illustrated inFIG.10shows that a movement amount of the display object v11from the initial position v120is less than a pre-decided threshold. In addition, the example illustrated inFIG.11shows that a movement amount of the display object v11from the initial position v11is equal to or greater than the pre-decided threshold. Moreover, reference numeral v13inFIGS.10and11schematically denotes a boundary at which the movement amount of the display object v11from the initial position v120is equal to or greater than the threshold.

For example, the left drawing illustrated inFIG.10illustrates a state in which the display object v11is selected when the user touches the display object v11located at the initial position v120for the selection using the operation object u11such as a finger and holds the touched state. In the example illustrated inFIG.10, as illustrated in the middle drawing, the user moves the touched display object v11to be slid toward the position v121within a range in which the movement amount does not exceed the threshold, and subsequently cancels the held state of the display object v11. Moreover, by cancelling the held state of the display object v11, the selected state of the display object v11is cancelled.

That is, the example illustrated inFIG.10shows that the selected state of the display object v11located at the initial position v120as illustrated in the left drawing ofFIG.10is cancelled at the position at which the movement amount from the initial position v120is less than the threshold as illustrated in the middle drawing (that is, the held state is cancelled).

At this time, the information processing terminal10starts controlling an operation of the imaging device30based on a predetermined operation mode (for example, the continuous shoot mode) with the movement of the display object v11toward the position v121based on the operation executed using the operation object u11, as illustrated in the left drawing and the middle drawing ofFIG.10. In other words, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to start an operation (that is, the operation of giving the instruction to start previously) based on the predetermined operation mode with the movement of the display object v11from the position v120to the position v121.

Then, as illustrated in the middle drawing ofFIG.10, the information processing terminal10continues to control the operation of the imaging device30based on the operation mode as long as the display object v11is continuously moved from the initial position v120to the position v121(that is, a state in which the display object v11is not located at the initial position v120).

As illustrated in the middle drawing ofFIG.10, when the selected state of the display object v11is cancelled at a position at which the movement amount from the initial position v120is less than the threshold, the information processing terminal10moves the display object v11to the initial position v120, as illustrated in the right drawing. At this time, the information processing terminal10displays the display object v11of which the selected state is cancelled (that is, the held state by the operation object u11is cancelled) so that the display object v11is moved toward the initial position v120in an animated manner.

Then, the information processing terminal10ends the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the continued predetermined operation mode with the movement of the display object v11of the initial position v120. In other words, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to end the operation (that is, the operation of giving the instruction to start previously) based on the continued predetermined operation mode with the movement of the display object v11to the initial position v120.

In addition, as another example,FIG.11illustrates a case in which the user moves the display object v11to be slid toward the position v121so that the movement amount is equal to or greater than the threshold. Specifically, the left drawing illustrated inFIG.11illustrates a state in which the user selects the display object v11by touching the display object v11located at the initial position v120for the selection using the operation object u11such as a finger and holds the touched state. In addition, in the example illustrated inFIG.11, as illustrated in the middle drawing, the user moves the touched display object v11to be slid toward the position v121so that the movement amount is equal to or greater than the threshold, and subsequently cancels the held state of the display object v11. Moreover, like the example illustrated inFIG.10, by cancelling the held state of the display object v11, the selected state of the display object v11is cancelled.

That is, the example illustrated inFIG.11shows that the selected state of the display object v11located at the initial position v120as illustrated in the left drawing ofFIG.11is cancelled at the position at which the movement amount from the initial position v120is equal to or greater than the threshold as illustrated in the middle drawing (that is, the held state is cancelled).

At this time, the information processing terminal10starts controlling an operation of the imaging device30based on a predetermined operation mode (for example, the continuous shoot mode) with the movement of the display object v11toward the position v121based on the operation executed using the operation object u11, as illustrated in the left drawing and the middle drawing ofFIG.11. Moreover, as illustrated in the middle drawing ofFIG.10, the information processing terminal10continues to control the operation of the imaging device30based on the operation mode as long as the display object v11is continuously moved from the initial position v120to the position v121(that is, a state in which the display object v11is not located at the initial position v120). This operation is the same as that of the example illustrated inFIG.10.

As illustrated in the middle drawing ofFIG.11, when the selected state of the display object v11is cancelled at a position at which the movement amount from the initial position v120is equal to or greater than the threshold, the information processing terminal10moves the display object v11to the position v121, as illustrated in the right drawing. At this time, the information processing terminal10displays the display object v11of which the selected state is cancelled (that is, the held state by the operation object u11is cancelled) so that the display object v11is moved toward the position v121in an animated manner.

Moreover, a state in which the display object v11moved to the position v121is located at the position v121is maintained. Then, the information processing terminal10continues the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the predetermined operation mode as long as the state in which the display object v11is located at the position v121is maintained, that is, a state in which the display object v11is not located at the initial position v120is continued.

Of course, when the display object v11located at the position v121is moved to the initial position v120based on an operation executed using the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10ends the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the continued predetermined operation mode.

Moreover, the control of the display object v11described above with reference toFIGS.10and11is merely an example and is not necessarily limited to the form in which the display is controlled such that the display object v11is moved, as described above. When the selected state of the display object v11is cancelled, irrespective of a movement amount of the display object v11, the display object vi may be maintained at a position at which the selected state is cancelled without moving the display object v11. In addition, whether to control the display of the display object v11, as described above with reference toFIGS.10and11, may be switched in accordance with advance settings based on a user operation.

The examples of the operation screens according to the present embodiment and the examples of the operations of capturing the plurality of still images as the series of images while the AF function in the imaging device30is operated based on the operation screens have been described above with reference toFIGS.7to11. In the foregoing configurations, the information processing system1according to the present embodiment can separately realize three operations, the “operation of the AF function,” the “start of continuous shoot,” and the “end of the continuous shoot,” through operations via the GUI, such as operations via the touch panel.

Moreover, as described above, the information processing system1according to the present embodiment can separately realize three different operations through operations via the GUI by presenting the above-described slider v10as an input interface to the user. Therefore, an application destination of the operation screen according to the present embodiment is not necessarily limited to only the case in which a plurality of still images are captured as a series of images while the AF function in the imaging device30is operated.

As a specific example, the above-described slider v10may be presented to the user as an input interface when bulb photography is executed in the imaging device30. In this case, three operations, an “operation of the AF function,” “start of the bulb photography (shutter opening),” and “end of the bulb photography (end of the shutter opening),” may be allocated to operations on the above-described slider v10.

2.3. Process

Next, a case in which a plurality of still images are captured as a series of images while the AF function in the imaging device30(that is, the continuous shoot mode) is operated in an example of the flow of a series of processes of the information processing system1according to the present embodiment will be described as an example with reference to the above-describedFIG.8andFIG.12.FIG.12is an explanatory diagram illustrating the example of the flow of a series of processes of the information processing system1according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

(Step S101)

As illustrated in the left drawing ofFIG.8, it is assumed that the user selects (for example, touches) the display object v11located at the initial position v120using the operation object u11such as a finger and maintains the selected state. At this time, the information processing terminal10detects an operation of holding the display object v11and instructs the imaging device30connected via the network n11to control a focus position accompanied with the AF function with the detection of the holding operation.

(Step S301)

When the information processing terminal10connected via the network n11instructs the imaging device30to control a focus position, the imaging device30decides the focus position v60in the image v70acquired via the imaging optical system and the imaging element based on the pre-decided setting of the AF function. Then, the imaging device30controls the focus position of the imaging optical system such that focusing is achieved at the decided focus position v60by operating the AF function.

(Step S103)

Subsequently, as illustrated in the middle drawing ofFIG.8, it is assumed that the user moves the display object v11of which the selected state is maintained to be slid toward the position v121. At this time, the information processing terminal10detects a slide operation of moving the display object v11toward the position v121and moves the display object v11to the position v121with the detection of the slide operation. Then, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to start an operation based on the predetermined operation mode (for example, the continuous shoot mode) with the movement of the display object v11from the initial position v120.

(Step S303)

When the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to start an operation based on the predetermined operation mode, the imaging device30starts controlling the operation of the imaging unit35based on the operation mode. As a specific example, when the operation mode is an operation mode in which a plurality of still images are captured as the series of images (for example, the continuous shoot mode), the imaging device30causes the imaging unit35to sequentially capture the still images based on a pre-decided shutter speed. Moreover, the imaging device30continues the control of the operation of the imaging unit35based on the started predetermined operation mode until the imaging device30is instructed to end the operation based on the operation mode.

(Step S105)

Then, as illustrated in the right drawing ofFIG.8, it is assumed that the user moves the display object v11located at the position v121to the initial position v120again. At this time, the information processing terminal10detects a slide operation of moving the display object v11toward the position v121and moves the display object v11to the initial position v120with the detection of the slide operation. Then, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to end the operation (for example, the operation of giving the instruction to start previously) based on the continued predetermined operation mode with the movement of the display object v11to the initial position v120.

(Step S305)

When the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to end the operation based on the predetermined operation mode, the imaging device30ends the control of the operation of the imaging unit35based on the continued operation mode. As a specific example, when the operation of the imaging unit35is controlled based on the continuous shoot mode, the imaging device30instructs the imaging unit35sequentially imaging the still images based on the pre-decided shutter speed to end the operation related to the capturing of the still images.

The case in which a plurality of still images are captured as a series of images while the AF function in the imaging device30is operated in the example of the flow of the series of processes by the information processing system1according to the present embodiment has been described as an example with reference to FIGS.8and12.

2.4. Examples

2.4.1. Example 2-1: Example of Slider

Next, other examples of the slider v10according to the present embodiment will be described in Example 2-1 with reference toFIGS.13,14, and15A to15C.

For example,FIG.13is a diagram illustrating an example of a slider v10according to the present embodiment. Moreover, when the slider illustrated inFIG.13is distinguished from the slider v10according to the above-described embodiment, the slider is referred to as a “slider v10a” in some cases. In addition, inFIG.13, the horizontal direction of the drawing is illustrated as the x axis and the vertical direction thereof is illustrated as the y axis.

For the slider v10aillustrated inFIG.13, an initial position v120, a position v122, and a position v123are set along the x axis. The display object v11is configured to be movable among the initial position v120, the position v122, and the position v123along the x axis. That is, for the slider v10aillustrated inFIG.13, the plurality of positions (that is, the positions v122and v123) are set in addition to the initial position v120.

Mutually different operation modes are associated in advance with the other positions (that is, the positions v122and v123) other than the initial position v120. For example, for the slider v10aillustrated inFIG.13, a continuous photography mode at a low speed (hereinafter referred to as a “low-speed continuous shoot mode” in some cases) is associated with the position v122. In addition, a continuous photography mode at a high speed (hereinafter referred to as a “high-speed continuous shoot mode” in some cases) is associated with the position v123.

In this case, according to a position which is a movement destination of the display object v11based on a user operation via the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10controls an operation of the imaging device30based on an operation mode associated with this position.

Specifically, when the display object v11located at the initial position v120is selected using the operation object u11and the selected state is maintained, the information processing terminal10causes the imaging device30to operate the AF function.

Then, when the display object v11of which the selected state is maintained is moved to the position v122through a user operation via the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10starts controlling an operation of the imaging device30based on the low-speed continuous shoot mode associated with the position v122. Then, the information processing terminal10continues the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the low-speed continuous shoot mode as long as the display object v11is located at the position v122.

Similarly, when the display object v11of which the selected state is maintained is moved to the position v123through a user operation via the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10starts controlling an operation of the imaging device30based on the high-speed continuous shoot mode associated with the position v123. Then, the information processing terminal10continues the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the high-speed continuous shoot mode as long as the display object v11is located at the position v123.

Moreover, when the display object v11located at the position v122or v123is moved to the initial position v120, the information processing terminal10ends the continued (previously started) control of the operation of the imaging device30, as in the case of the application of the slider v10according to the above-described embodiment.

In such a configuration, the user can operate the imaging device30based on a desired operation mode among the plurality of pre-decided operation modes through an operation via a GUI, as in an operation via the touch panel of the information processing terminal10.

Moreover, in the example illustrated inFIG.13, each position is set so that both of the positions v122and v123are located on the same side of the initial position v120(for example, to the left of the initial position v120). However, the example illustrated inFIG.13is merely an example. A relative positional relation between the initial position v120and the plurality of positions other than the initial position v120is not necessarily limited to the positional relation between the initial positions120and the positions v122and v123illustrated inFIG.13.

For example, theFIG.14is a diagram illustrating another example of the slider v10according to the present embodiment. Moreover, when the slider illustrated inFIG.14is distinguished from the slider v10according to the above-described embodiment, the slider is referred to as a “slider v10b” in some cases. In addition, the slider v10billustrated inFIG.14is illustrated as an example of an interface when an operation related to capturing of a moving image by the imaging device30is controlled. Moreover, inFIG.14, the horizontal direction of the drawing is illustrated as the x axis and the vertical direction thereof is illustrated as the y axis, as inFIG.13.

For the slider v10billustrated inFIG.14, the initial position v120and positions v124and v125are set such that the positions v124and v125other than the initial position v120are located on mutually opposite sides along the x axis using the initial position v120as a reference. Then, the display object v11is configured to be movable between the initial position v120and the positions v124and v125along the x axis.

A mode of so-called fast-forward photography (overcrank) in which a moving image is captured with the number of frames larger than the number of frames at the time of reproduction of a moving image is associated with the position v124. In addition, a mode of so-called slow-forward photography (undercrank) in which a moving image is captured with the number of frames smaller than the number of frames at the time of reproduction of a moving image is associated with the position v125. In addition, an icon v112indicating that a moving image is captured may be presented in the display object v11.

That is, in the example illustrated inFIG.14, the information processing terminal10controls an operation of the imaging device30such that a moving image is captured with a preset default number of frames (for example, the same number of frames at the time of reproduction) when the display object v11is located at the initial position v120.

In addition, when the display object v11is moved to the position v124through a user operation via the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10starts controlling an operation of the imaging device30based on the mode of the fast-forward photography associated with the position v124. Then, the information processing terminal10continues the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the mode of the fast-forward photography as long as the display object v11is located at the position v124.

Similarly, when the display object v11is moved to the position v125through a user operation via the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10starts controlling an operation of the imaging device30based on the mode of the slow-forward photography associated with the position v125. Then, the information processing terminal10continues the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the mode of the slow-forward photography as long as the display object v11is located at the position v125.

Moreover, when the display object v11located at the position v124or v125is moved to the initial position v120, the information processing terminal10ends the continued (previously started) control of the operation of the imaging device30, as in the case of the application of the slider v10according to the above-described embodiment. That is, in the example illustrated inFIG.14, the information processing terminal10controls the operation of the imaging device30such that a moving image is captured with the preset default number of frames with the movement of the display object v11to the initial position v120.

As described above with reference toFIGS.13and14, the relative positional relations between the initial position v120and the plurality of positions other than the initial position v120are not necessarily limited, but may be appropriately modified according to an assumed use form.

Next, still another example of the slider v10according to the present embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.15A.FIG.15Ais a diagram illustrating still another example of the slider v10according to the present embodiment. Moreover, when the slider illustrated inFIG.15Ais distinguished from the slider v10according to the above-described embodiment, the slider is referred to as a “slider v10c” in some cases. In addition, the slider v10cillustrated inFIG.15Ais illustrated as an example of an interface when an operation related to capturing of a plurality of still images (for example, continuous shoot) by the imaging device30is controlled. Moreover, inFIG.15A, the horizontal direction of the drawing is illustrated as the x axis and the vertical direction thereof is illustrated as the y axis, as inFIGS.13and14.

In the examples illustrated inFIGS.7,13, and14described above, each position of the slider v10is set along one predetermined axis (in other words, in one predetermined direction) and the display object v11is configured to be movable along the one axis.

Meanwhile, for the slider v10cillustrated inFIG.15A, each position of the slider v10cis disposed along a plurality of axes and the display object v11is configured to be movable along the plurality of axes.

Specifically, in the example illustrated inFIG.15A, the initial position v120is set as a starting point and the positions v122and v123are disposed along the x axis. In addition, the initial position v120is set as the starting point and positions v126and v127are disposed along the y axis. The display object v11is configured to be movable between the initial position v120, the position v122, and the position v123along the x axis. In addition, the display object v11is configured to be movable between the initial position v120, the position v126, and the position v127along the y axis.

Moreover, the same operation mode as in the slider v10aillustrated inFIG.13is associated with each of the positions v122and v123. That is, a low-speed continuous shoot mode is associated with the position v122and a high-speed continuous shoot mode is associated with the position v123. Since an operation of the information processing terminal10when the display object v11is moved to each of the positions v122and v123is the same as in the case of the slider v10aillustrated inFIG.13, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

In addition, for the slider v10cillustrated inFIG.15A, each of the positions v126and v127set along the y axis using the initial position v120as a reference is associated with an operation mode related to control of a magnification ratio (zoom). That is, an operation mode in which a magnification ratio is shifted to a tele-side (telescopic side) is associated with the position v126. In addition, an operation mode in which a magnification ratio is shifted to a wide side (wide angle side) is associated with the position v127.

That is, when the display object v11is moved to the position v126through a user operation via the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10causes the imaging device30to control a position (that is, a zoom position) of the imaging optical system such that the magnification ratio is shifted to the tele-side. Moreover, the information processing terminal10continues the control of the operation related to the change in the magnification ratio of the imaging device30within a range in which the position of the imaging optical system is movable as long as the display object v11is located at the position v126(that is, the imaging optical system reaches a tele-end).

In addition, when the display object v11is moved to the position v127through a user operation via the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10causes the imaging device30to control a position (that is, a zoom position) of the imaging optical system such that the magnification ratio is shifted to the wide side. Moreover, the information processing terminal10continues the control of the operation related to the change in the magnification ratio of the imaging device30within a range in which the position of the imaging optical system is movable as long as the display object v11is located at the position v127(that is, the imaging optical system reaches a wide end).

Moreover, when the display object v11located at the position v126or v127is moved to the initial position v120, the information processing terminal10ends the continued (previously started) control of the operation of the imaging device30as in the case of the application of the slider v10according to the above-described embodiment.

As described, above in the slider v10c, the initial position v120and a position other than the initial position v120may be disposed along a plurality of axes and the display object v11may be configured to be movable along the plurality of axes. Moreover, in the example illustrated inFIG.15A, the display object v11is configured to be movable along two axes, the x and y axes, but it is needless to say that the number of axes or the relative positional relations between the axes are not limited to the example illustrated inFIG.15A. That is, the display object v11may be configured to be movable along a plurality of axes equal to or greater than three axes or the number of axes or positional relations between the axes may be appropriately changed according to an assumed use form.

Next, still another example of the slider v10according to the present embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.15B.FIG.15Bis a diagram illustrating still another example of the slider v10according to the present embodiment. Moreover, when the slider illustrated inFIG.15Bis distinguished from the slider v10according to the above-described embodiment, the slider is referred to as a “slider v10d” in some cases. In addition, the slider v10dillustrated inFIG.15Bis illustrated as an example of an interface when an operation related to capturing of a plurality of still images (for example, continuous shoot) by the imaging device30is controlled. Moreover, inFIG.15B, the horizontal direction of the drawing is illustrated as the x axis and the vertical direction thereof is illustrated as the y axis, as inFIGS.13,14, and15A.

For the slider v10dillustrated inFIG.15B, the initial position v120and another position v132different from the initial position v120are set along a curved path with a hook shape. In addition, the display object v11is configured to be movable between the initial position v120and the position v132along the curved path with the hook shape.

In the example illustrated inFIG.15B, when the display object v11located at the initial position v120is selected using the operation object u11and the selected state is maintained, the information processing terminal10causes the imaging device30to operate the AF function.

Then, when the display object v11of which the selected state is maintained is moved from the initial position v120through a user operation via the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10starts controlling an operation of the imaging device30based on the operation mode (for example, the continuous shoot mode) decided in advance.

Moreover, the user cancels the selected state of the display object v11by moving the display object v11only in the downward direction within a range which does not exceed a position denoted by reference numeral v131and cancelling the held state of the display object v11. In this case, the information processing terminal10displays the display object v11of which the selected state is cancelled (that is, the held state by the operation object u11is cancelled) so that the display object v11is moved toward the initial position v120in an animated manner.

Then, the information processing terminal10ends the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the continued predetermined operation mode with the movement of the display object v11to the initial position v120. In other words, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to end the operation (that is, the operation of giving the instruction to start previously) based on the continued predetermined operation mode (for example, the continuous shoot mode) with the movement of the display object v11to the initial position v120.

In addition, it is assumed that the user cancels the selected state of the display object v11by moving the display object v11toward the position v131in a downward direction, further moving the display object v11toward the position v132in the left direction, and cancelling the held state of the display object v11. In this case, the information processing terminal10displays the display object v11of which the selected state is cancelled (that is, the held state by the operation object u11is cancelled) so that the display object v11is moved toward the position v132in an animated manner.

Moreover, a state in which the display object v11moved to the position v132is located at the position v132is maintained. Then, the information processing terminal10continues the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the predetermined operation mode (for example, the continuous shoot mode) as long as the state in which the display object v11is located at the position v132is maintained, that is, a state in which the display object v11is not located at the initial position v120is continued.

Of course, when the display object v11located at the position v132is moved to the initial position v120based on an operation executed using the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10ends the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the continued predetermined operation mode.

As described above with reference toFIG.15B, the initial position v120and a position other than the initial position v120may not necessarily be set along the predetermined axis (for example, the x axis or the y axis) as long as the initial position v120and the other position are set along the predetermined route. Moreover, in this case, the display object v11is configured to be movable between the initial position v120and a position other than the initial position v120along the route.

Next, still another example of the slider v10according to the present embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.15C.FIG.15Cis a diagram illustrating still another example of the slider v10according to the present embodiment. Moreover, when the slider illustrated inFIG.15Cis distinguished from the slider v10according to the above-described embodiment, the slider is referred to as a “slider v10e” in some cases. In addition, the slider v10eillustrated inFIG.15Bis illustrated as an example of an interface when an operation related to capturing of a plurality of still images (for example, continuous shoot) by the imaging device30is controlled. Moreover, inFIG.15C, the horizontal direction of the drawing is illustrated as the x axis and the vertical direction thereof is illustrated as the y axis, as inFIGS.13,14,15A, and15B.

For the slider v10eillustrated inFIG.15C, each position of the slider v10eis disposed along a plurality of axes and the display object v11is configured to be movable along the plurality of axes, as in the slider v10cillustrated inFIG.15A.

Specifically, in the example illustrated inFIG.15C, the initial position v120is set as a starting point and a position v135is disposed along the x axis. In addition, the initial position v120is set as the starting point and positions v133and v134are disposed along the y axis. The display object v11is configured to be movable between the initial position v120and the position v135along the x axis. In addition, the display object v11is configured to be movable between the initial position v120, the position v133, and the position v134along the y axis.

A so-called single shoot mode in which one still image is captured is associated with the position v133. In addition, the continuous shoot mode is associated with the positions v134and v135.

In the example illustrated inFIG.15C, when the display object v11located at the initial position v120is selected using the operation object u11and the selected state is maintained, the information processing terminal10causes the imaging device30to operate the AF function.

Then, when the display object v11of which the selected state is maintained is moved to the position v133through a user operation via the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10causes the imaging device30to capture one still image based on the single shoot mode associated with the position v133. Moreover, when the user cancels the held state of the display object v11moved to the position v133(that is, the user cancels the selected state), the information processing terminal10may display the display object v11of which the selected state is cancelled so that the display object v11is moved toward the initial position v120in an animated manner.

In addition, when the display object v11of which the selected state is maintained is moved to the position v134through a user operation via the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10starts controlling an operation of the imaging device30based on the continuous shoot mode associated with the position v134. Then, the information processing terminal10continues the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the continuous shoot mode as long as the display object v11is located at the position v134.

Moreover, even when the user cancels the held state of the display object v11moved to the position v134(that is, the user cancels the selected state), the information processing terminal10maintains the state in which the display object v11of which the selected state is cancelled is located at the position v134.

Of course, when the display object v11located at the position v134is moved to the initial position v120based on an operation executed using the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10ends the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the continued continuous shoot mode.

Similarly, when the display object v11of which the selected state is maintained is moved to the position v135through a user operation via the operation object u11, the information processing terminal10starts controlling an operation of the imaging device30based on the continuous shoot mode associated with the position v135. Then, the information processing terminal10continues the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the continuous shoot mode as long as the display object v11is located at the position v135.

On the other hand, when the user cancels the held state of the display object v11moved to the position v135(that is, the user cancels the selected state), the information processing terminal10displays the display object v11of which the selected state is cancelled so that the display object v11is moved toward the initial position v120in an animated manner.

Then, the information processing terminal10ends the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the continued predetermined continuous shoot mode with the movement of the display object v11to the initial position v120. In other words, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to end the operation (that is, the operation of giving the instruction to start previously) based on the continued predetermined continuous shoot mode with the movement of the display object v11to the initial position v120.

As described above with reference toFIG.15C, the same operation mode may be associated with different positions. In addition, in this case, the information processing terminal10may supply a different operation form to the user according to each position as in the case in which the display object v11is moved to each of the positions v134and v135inFIG.15C.

The examples of the slider v10according to the present embodiment have been described in Example 2-1 with reference toFIGS.13,14, and15A to15C.

2.4.2. Example 2-2: Cooperation with Operation Unit of Imaging Device

Next, an example of display control of the slider v10by the information processing terminal10when the operation unit39of the imaging device30is operated will be described in Example 2-2.

As described above, in the information processing system1according to the present embodiment, the imaging device30may include the operation unit39as an interface for operating the imaging device30. That is, in the information processing system1according to the present embodiment, the user can operate the imaging device30through any of an operation via the information processing terminal10and an operation via the operation unit39.

That is, for example, the user can execute an operation such that the imaging device30is caused to start continuous photography (that is, continuous shoot) through an operation via the information processing terminal10and the imaging device30is caused to end the continuous photography through an operation via the operation unit39. Therefore, in view of such a situation, the information processing terminal10may switch a display state of the slider v10according to an operation state when the operation state of the imaging device30is switched through an operation via the operation unit39of the imaging device30.

Accordingly, an example of display control of the slider v10by the information processing terminal10when the operation unit39of the imaging device30is operated will be described below with reference toFIGS.16and17.FIGS.16and17are explanatory diagrams illustrating examples of an operation of an information processing terminal10according to Example 2-2 and illustrate examples of the display control of the slider v10by the information processing terminal10when the operation unit39of the imaging device30is operated.

First, an example of display control of the slider v10by the information processing terminal10when the operation unit39is operated during an operation in the continuous shoot (that is, during continued continuous photography) by the imaging device30will be described with reference toFIG.16. Moreover, the operation unit39is assumed to be an interface (for example, a shutter button) for controlling an operation related to capturing of images by the imaging device30in this description.

For example, the left drawing ofFIG.16illustrates a state in which an operation of moving the display object v11of the slider v10displayed on the display unit151to the position v121is executed and the information processing terminal10starts controlling an operation of the imaging device30based on the continuous shoot mode. That is, the left drawing ofFIG.16illustrates a state in which the imaging device30operates based on the continuous shoot mode according to an instruction from the information processing terminal10(that is, a state in which the imaging unit35is caused to sequentially capture still images at a pre-decided shutter speed).

In this way, it is assumed that when the operation unit39is operated by the user in a state in which the imaging device30operates based on the continuous shoot mode, the imaging device30is instructed to end the operation based on the continuous shoot mode (that is, to end the operation of capturing the plurality of still images), as illustrated in the middle drawing ofFIG.16. At this time, the imaging device30is operated via the operation unit39, ends the operation based on the continued continuous shoot mode, and notifies the information processing terminal10that the operation based on the continuous shoot mode is ended via the network n11.

When the imaging device30notifies the information processing terminal10that the operation based on the continuous shoot mode is ended, the information processing terminal10controls display of the slider v10such that the display object v11located at the position v121is moved to the initial position v120, as illustrated in the right drawing ofFIG.16. In such a configuration, when the imaging device30ends the operation based on the continuous shoot mode according to an operation via the operation unit39, the information processing terminal10updates the display of the slider v10in tandem with the end of the operation. Thus, the user can also instruct the imaging device30to start an operation (that is, to start the continuous photography) based on the continuous shoot mode again by operating the slider v10.

Next, an example of display control of the slider v10by the information processing terminal10when the imaging device30starts an operation based on the continuous shoot mode through an operation via the operation unit39will be described with reference toFIG.17.

For example, the left drawing ofFIG.17illustrates a state in which the information processing terminal10does not start the control of the operation of the imaging device30based on the continuous shoot mode, that is, a state in which the operation related to capturing of a plurality of still images by the imaging device30(that is, the operation based on the continuous shoot mode) is not started. Moreover, at this time, the display object v11of the slider v10displayed on the display unit151of the information processing terminal10is located at the initial position v120.

In this way, it is assumed that when the operation unit39is operated by the user in a state in which the imaging device30does not start the operation related to capturing the still images, as illustrated in the middle drawing ofFIG.17, the imaging device30is instructed to start the operation based on the continuous shoot mode. At this time, the imaging device30is operated via the operation unit39, starts the operation based on the continued continuous shoot mode, and notifies the information processing terminal10that the operation based on the continuous shoot mode via the network n11is started.

When the imaging device30notifies the information processing terminal10that the operation based on the continuous shoot mode is started, the information processing terminal10controls display of the slider v10such that the display object v11located at the initial position v120is moved to the position v121. In such a configuration, when the imaging device30starts the operation based on the continuous shoot mode according to an operation via the operation unit39, the information processing terminal10updates the display of the slider v10in tandem with the start of the operation. Thus, the user can also instruct the imaging device30to end the started operation (that is, to end the continuous photography) based on the continuous shoot mode again by operating the slider v10.

The example of the display control of the slider v10by the information processing terminal10when the operation unit39of the imaging device30is operated has been described in Example 2-2. Moreover, the foregoing display control is merely an example, and a configuration and a method for realizing the control or an opportunity for the control (for example, a triggered process or operation) are not particularly limited as long as the information processing terminal10can control display of the slider v10according to the operation state of the imaging device30.

For example, the information processing terminal10may sequentially monitor operation states of the imaging device30and control display of the slider v10according to a monitoring result.

As a specific example, the information processing terminal10may restrict (suppress) display of the slider v10in a state in which it is difficult for the imaging device30to operate in a mode in which a moving image or a plurality of still images are captured as a series of images. As an example of the state in which it is difficult for the imaging device30to operate in the mode in which a moving image or a plurality of still images are captured as a series of images, a state in which an external recording medium is not mounted on the imaging device30or a state in which an empty region of a recording medium (for example, the storage unit37) is not sufficient can be exemplified. In such a configuration, when it is difficult for the imaging device30to operate in the mode in which a moving image or a plurality of still images are captured as a series of images, the information processing terminal10can impose a restriction that the user may not give an instruction of an operation in the operation mode.

2.5. Conclusion

As described above, the information processing terminal10according to the present embodiment presents an operation screen on which the slider v10(for example, seeFIGS.7and8) is displayed as an interface for operating the imaging device30to the user via the display unit151. At this time, the slider v10is configured such that the display object v11is movable in a predetermined direction between the initial position v120and a position v121other than the initial position v120set in the predetermined direction.

In such a configuration, the information processing terminal10can separately recognize three states, states in which the display object v11is located at the initial position v120and the other position v121and a state in which the selected state of the display object v11is maintained (that is, a held state).

Therefore, for example, the information processing terminal10can also allocate the state in which the display object v11is located at the initial position v120and the other position v121to start of control of an operation of the imaging device30based on the predetermined operation and end of the control. In addition, at this time, the information processing terminal10can also allocate the state in which the selected state of the display object v11is maintained to control by which the imaging device30is caused to operate the AF function.

That is, in the information processing system1according to the present embodiment, it is possible to realize the operations, the “operation of the AF function,” the “start of the continuous shoot,” and the “end of the continuous shoot,” through an operation via a GUI, for example, when the imaging device30is caused to capture a plurality of still images as a series of images.

Of course, an application destination of the operation screen on which the slider v10according to the present embodiment is displayed is not limited to only the case in which a plurality of still images are captured as a series of images (that is, the case of continuous shoot). As a specific example, an operation screen on which the slider v10is displayed as an input interface when the imaging device30is caused to execute bulb photography may be presented to the user. In this case, three operations, an “operation of the AF function,” “start of the bulb photography (shutter opening),” and “end of the bulb photography (end of the shutter opening),” may be allocated to operations on the above-described slider v10.

In addition, in the foregoing example, the case in which the imaging device30is operated through an operation via the touch panel has been described as an example, but the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to operations via the touch panel as long as the slider v10is operated using the operation object u11. As a specific example, the slider v10may be configured to be operated using a point as the operation object u11by operating the pointer using an operation device such as a mouse.

In addition, an application destination of the operation screen on which the slider v10according to the present embodiment is displayed is not limited to the configuration (seeFIG.1) of the information processing system1described above as long as an operation of the imaging device is controlled through an operation via a GUI as in an operation via the touch panel. As a specific example, it is needless to say that it is possible to obtain the operational advantageous effects described above by also applying the operation screen on which the slider v10is displayed to a so-called digital camera including a touch panel.

3. THIRD EMBODIMENT

3.1. Overview

Next, an example of a process when images captured by the imaging device30are transmitted to the information processing terminal10will be described according to a third embodiment.

When a plurality of still images are captured as a series of images, the capacity of data of the plurality of still images captured as the series of images (hereinafter referred to as the “amount of data” in some cases) increases according to the number of captured still images. On the other hand, as in the information processing system1(seeFIG.1) according to the present disclosure, in a configuration in which images are transmitted between the imaging device30and the information processing terminal10via the network n11, there is a possibility of an increase in the amount of data of transmission target images (that is, an increase in the number of images) leading to an increase in traffic of the network n11.

For this reason, when a plurality of still images are captured by the information processing system1, congestion of the network n11occurs due to transmission of the series of images captured by the imaging device30, and transmission and reception of information between the imaging device30and the information processing terminal10are compressed in some cases.

In particular, not only images captured by the imaging device30but also through images to be displayed in the information processing terminal10or control information for controlling an operation of the imaging device30from the information processing terminal10are transmitted and received between the information processing terminal10and the imaging device30via the network n11. For this reason, there is a request for a configuration capable of efficiently transmitting captured images between the information processing terminal10and the imaging device30connected via the network n11.

Accordingly, the information processing system1according to the present embodiment provides a structure for efficiently transmitting captured images to the information processing terminal10(that is, a structure for reducing traffic of the network n11) via the network n11when the imaging device30is caused to capture a series of images (for example, a plurality of still images).

For example,FIG.18is an explanatory diagram illustrating an overview of the information processing system1according to the present embodiment of the present disclosure and illustrates an example of the flow of an operation when a plurality of still images captured as a series of images by the imaging device30are transmitted to the information processing terminal10.

The left drawing ofFIG.18illustrates a state in which the user instructs the imaging device30continuously capturing images based on a mode in which a plurality of still images are captured as a series of images (for example, the continuous shoot mode) to end the capturing of the images via the information processing terminal10.

Specifically, when the user moves the display object v11located at the position v121to the initial position v120, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to end the operation (for example, an operation based on the continuous shoot mode) based on the continued predetermined operation mode. The imaging device30receiving this instruction ends the process related to the continued capturing of the images and retains or records the series of captured images (that is, the plurality of still images) on, for example, a recording medium such as the storage unit37.

When the imaging device30ends capturing of the series of images based on the instruction from the information processing terminal10, the imaging device30generates thumbnail images of the series of captured images.

Moreover, in this description, the thumbnail images indicate images that are reduced so that the plurality of images can be viewed in one list and particularly indicate images that processed so that the amount of data of the captured images is further reduced. Of course, a method of generating the thumbnail images is not particularly limited as long as the amount of data is reduced. As a specific example, the imaging device30may generate the thumbnail images by reducing the sizes (dimensions) of the images or may generate the thumbnail images by reducing the resolutions of the images.

Then, as illustrated in the middle drawing ofFIG.18, the imaging device30transmits a series of thumbnail images generated from the captured images to the information processing terminal10via the network n11.

When the information processing terminal10acquires the series of thumbnail images from the imaging device30, the information processing terminal10causes the display unit151to display the acquired thumbnail images so that each of the thumbnail images can be selected. For example, in the example illustrated in the middle drawing ofFIG.18, the information processing terminal10causes the display unit151to display a list v30in which acquired thumbnail images v31are presented to each be selectable.

Then, the information processing terminal10receives selection of at least some of the thumbnail images among the series of thumbnail images v31presented via the display unit151from the user. For example, in the example illustrated in the middle drawing ofFIG.18, the information processing terminal10recognizes the thumbnail images touched by the user using the operation object u11such as a finger among the thumbnail images v31presented in the list v30as the thumbnail image selected by the user. Moreover, hereinafter, the thumbnail image selected by the user is referred to as a “thumbnail image v33” in some cases.

When at least some of the thumbnail images v33are selected among the series of thumbnail images v31presented via the display unit151, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to transmit images v33′ corresponding to the selected thumbnail images v33, as illustrated in the right drawing ofFIG.18. The imaging device30receiving this instruction extracts the images v33′ corresponding to the thumbnail images v33selected by the user from the series of captured images (that is, the images which are generation sources of the series of thumbnail images) and transmits the extracted images v33′ to the information processing terminal10.

Moreover, it is needless to say that the imaging device30generates reduced images (for example, screen nails) of the captured images and transmits the reduced images as the images v33′ to the information processing terminal10when the imaging device30transmits the images v33′ corresponding to the thumbnail images v33to the information processing terminal10.

In the foregoing configuration, in the information processing system1according to the present embodiment, the series of images captured by the imaging device30can be transmitted from the imaging device30to the information processing terminal10with only the images selected by the user not being reduced. Therefore, in the information processing system1according to the present embodiment, traffic between the imaging device30and the information processing terminal10is reduced more than when all of the series of images captured by the imaging device30is transmitted to the information processing terminal10without being reduced. That is, in the information processing system1according to the present embodiment, the captured images can be efficiently transmitted between the imaging device30and the information processing terminal10.

3.2. Process

Next, the example of the flow of the series of processes of the information processing system1according to the present embodiment will be described focusing on the process of transmitting the images captured by the imaging device30to the information processing terminal10with reference toFIG.19.FIG.19is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the flow of a series of processes of the information processing system1according to the third embodiment.

(Step S305)

When the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to end the operation based on the continued predetermined operation mode (for example, the operation based on the continuous shoot mode), the imaging device30ends the process related to the continued capturing of the images and retains or records the series of captured images (that is, the plurality of still images) on, for example, a recording medium such as the storage unit37.

(Step S307)

Then, when the imaging device30ends capturing of the series of images based on the instruction from the information processing terminal10, the imaging device30generates the thumbnail images of the series of captured images and transmits the series of generated thumbnail images to the information processing terminal10via the network n11.

(Step S107)

When the information processing terminal10acquires the series of thumbnail images from the imaging device30, the information processing terminal10causes the display unit151to display the acquired thumbnail images so that the thumbnail images can each be selected.

(Step S109)

The information processing terminal10receives selection of at least some of the thumbnail images among the series of thumbnail images v31presented via the display unit151from the user.

Then, when the information processing terminal10receives the selection of at least some of the thumbnail images v33among the series of thumbnail images v31presented via the display unit151, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to transmit the images v33′ corresponding to the selected thumbnail images v33.

(Step S309)

The imaging device30receiving this instruction extracts the images v33′ corresponding to the thumbnail images v33selected by the user among the series of captured images (that is, the images which are generation sources of the series of thumbnail images) and transmits the extracted images v33′ to the information processing terminal10.

As described above, in the information processing system1according to the present embodiment, the imaging device30first generates the thumbnail images of the series of images when the imaging device30captures the plurality of still images as the series of images based on the predetermined operation mode such as the continuous shoot mode. Then, the imaging device30transmits the generated thumbnail images to the information processing terminal10. Thus, the user can select desired images among the series of images captured by the imaging device30based on the thumbnail images presented to the display unit151of the information processing terminal10.

Then, the imaging device30transmits only the images selected by the user via the information processing terminal10among the series of captured images to the information processing terminal10.

In such a configuration, in the information processing system1according to the present embodiment, the series of images captured by the imaging device30can be transmitted from the imaging device30to the information processing terminal10with only the images selected by the user not being reduced.

Moreover, the imaging device30may interrupt or stop the transmission of the thumbnail images when the imaging device30receives a new instruction related to the capturing of the images from the information processing terminal10during the transmission of the series of generated thumbnail images (step S307ofFIG.19). Moreover, when the imaging device30interrupts the transmission of the thumbnail images, the imaging device30may resume the interrupted transmission of the thumbnail images (that is, the transmission of the thumbnail images generated from the previously captured images) after completion of the capturing of the images based on the new instruction from the information processing terminal10.

Similarly, when the imaging device30receives a new instruction related to the capturing of the images from the information processing terminal10during the transmission of the images v33′ selected by the user (step S309ofFIG.19) among the series of captured images via the information processing terminal10, the imaging device30may interrupt or stop the transmission of the images v33′. Moreover, when the imaging device30interrupts the transmission of the images v33′, the imaging device30may resume the interrupted transmission of the images v33′ after completion of the capturing of the images based on the new instruction from the information processing terminal10.

In addition, when the information processing terminal10newly acquires the thumbnail images from the imaging device30during the presentation of the thumbnail images acquired from the imaging device30, the information processing terminal10may interrupt or stop the presentation of the previously acquired thumbnail images and may present the newly acquired thumbnail images to the user. Moreover, when the information processing terminal10interrupts the presentation of the previously acquired thumbnail images, the information processing terminal10may present the previously acquired thumbnail images to the user again after completion of the presentation of the newly acquired thumbnail images (for example, completion of selection of the images).

The example of the flow of the series of processes of the information processing system1according to the present embodiment has been described focusing on the process of transmitting the images captured by the imaging device30to the information processing terminal10with reference toFIG.19.

3.3. Example 3

Next, an example of a case in which a moving image captured by the imaging device30is transmitted to the information processing terminal10will be described according to Example 3.

When a moving image is captured as a series of images, the amount of data of the moving image captured as the series of images increases according to an imaging time of the moving image. For this reason, when a moving image is captured by the information processing system1, congestion of the network n11occurs due to transmission of the series of images (that is, the moving image) captured by the imaging device30and transmission and reception of information between the imaging device30and the information processing terminal10are compressed in some cases.

Accordingly, an example of a structure in which a captured moving image is efficiently transmitted to the information processing terminal10via the network n11(that is, traffic of the network n11is reduced) when the imaging device30is caused to capture the moving image in the information processing system1according to Example 3 will be described with reference toFIG.20.FIG.20is an explanatory diagram illustrating an overview of the information processing system1according to Example 3.

InFIG.20, reference numeral d10schematically denotes a moving image captured by the imaging device30and the horizontal direction of the drawing represents a time axis. In addition, reference numerals d30ato d30dschematically illustrate a partial moving image obtained by cutting the moving image d10along the time axis. In addition, reference numerals d31ato d31dschematically illustrate some frames (that is, still images) in the moving image d10. Moreover, when moving image d30ato d30dare not particularly distinguished, the moving image d30ato d30dare simply referred to as the “moving image d30” in some cases. Similarly, when the frames d31ato d31dare not particularly distinguished from each other, the frames d31ato d31dare simply referred to as “frames d31” in some cases.

The imaging device30according to the present embodiment retains or records a series of captured images (that is, the moving image d10) on, for example, a recording medium such as the storage unit37when the imaging device30ends the capturing of the moving image based on an instruction from the information processing terminal10.

When the imaging device30ends the capturing of the moving image d10based on the instruction from the information processing terminal10, the imaging device30extracts a plurality of some frames from the captured moving image d10. In the example illustrated inFIG.20, the imaging device30extracts the frames d31ato d31dfrom the moving image d10. Then, the imaging device30generates thumbnail images of the extracted frames d31ato d31dand transmits the series of generated thumbnail images to the information processing terminal10via the network n11.

Moreover, the imaging device30may appropriately change a method of extracting some of the frames (for example, the frames d31ato d31d) from the captured moving image d10according to implementation. As a specific example, the imaging device30may extract some of the frames from the moving image d10for each predetermined time width. In addition, as another example, the imaging device30may analyze the frames of the moving image d10and extract a frame for each scene using a timing at which the scene is considerably changed as a starting point. Of course, the method of extracting the frames described above is merely an example and the present disclosure is not limited to the foregoing example. In addition, the imaging device30may combine a plurality of methods and extract some of the frames from the moving image d10.

When the information processing terminal10acquires the series of thumbnail images from the imaging device30, the information processing terminal10causes the display unit151to display the acquired thumbnail images so that the thumbnail images can each be selected. At this time, for example, the information processing terminal10causes the display unit151to display the list v30presented so that the acquired thumbnail images can each be selected, as in the case of the above-described embodiment with reference toFIG.18. For example, reference numerals v31ato v31ddenote thumbnail images of the frames d31aand d31d. Moreover, when the thumbnail images v31ato v31dare not particularly distinguished from each other, the thumbnail images v31ato v31dare simply referred to as “thumbnail images v31” in some cases.

Then, the information processing terminal10receives selection of at least some of the thumbnail images among the series of thumbnail images v31presented via the display unit151from the user. Then, when the information processing terminal10receives the selection of at least some of the thumbnail images v33among the series of thumbnail images v31presented via the display unit151, the information processing terminal10instructs the imaging device30to transmit the moving image corresponding to the selected thumbnail images v33. Moreover, the thumbnail image v30bamong the thumbnail images v30ato v30din the list v30is assumed to be designated in the description here.

The imaging device30receiving an instruction form the information processing terminal10specifies a frame corresponding to the designated thumbnail image v31from the frames d31which are generation sources of the series of thumbnail images v31in the captured moving image d10. That is, when the thumbnail image v31bis designated, the imaging device30specifies the frame d31bwhich is a generation source of the thumbnail image v31b.

Then, the imaging device30extracts the partial moving image d30including the specified frame d31from the captured moving image d10. For example, when the frame d31bis specified, the imaging device30extracts the partial moving image d30bincluding the frame d31bfrom the captured moving image d10.

Moreover, the method of setting the time width of the moving image d30when the imaging device30extracts the partial moving image d30from the moving image d10is not particularly limited. As a specific example, the imaging device30may extract the partial moving image d30with the predetermined time width including the specified frame d31from the captured moving image d10. In addition, as another example, the imaging device30may extract the partial moving image d30from the specified frame d31to another frame d31adjacent to the frame d31from the specified frame d31. Of course, the foregoing method is merely an example and the method is not particularly limited as long as the imaging device30can extract the partial moving image d30including the specified frame d31from the moving image d10.

When the imaging device30extracts the partial moving image d30from the captured moving image d10based on the specified frame d31, the imaging device30transmits the partial moving image d30to the information processing terminal10via the network n11.

In the above-described configuration, in the information processing system1according to Example 3, the moving image d10captured by the imaging device30can be transmitted from the imaging device30to the information processing terminal10with only the partial moving image including the frame d31selected by the user not being reduced. Therefore, in the information processing system1according to Example 3, traffic between the imaging device30and the information processing terminal10is reduced more than when all of the moving image d10captured by the imaging device30is transmitted to the information processing terminal10without being reduced. That is, in the information processing system1according to Example 3, the captured moving image can be efficiently transmitted between the imaging device30and the information processing terminal10.

3.4. Conclusion

As described above, in the information processing system1according to the present embodiment, the series of images captured by the imaging device30can be transmitted from the imaging device30to the information processing terminal10with only the images selected by the user not being reduced. Therefore, in the information processing system1according to the present embodiment, traffic between the imaging device30and the information processing terminal10is reduced more than when all of the series of images captured by the imaging device30is transmitted to the information processing terminal10without being reduced. That is, in the information processing system1according to the present embodiment, the captured images can be efficiently transmitted between the imaging device30and the information processing terminal10.

4. CONCLUSION

The preferred embodiment(s) of the present disclosure has/have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, whilst the present disclosure is not limited to the above examples. A person skilled in the art may find various alterations and modifications within the scope of the appended claims, and it should be understood that they will naturally come under the technical scope of the present disclosure.

Further, the effects described in this specification are merely illustrative or exemplified effects, and are not limitative. That is, with or in the place of the above effects, the technology according to the present disclosure may achieve other effects that are clear to those skilled in the art based on the description of this specification.

Additionally, the present technology may also be configured as below.

(1)

An information processing device including:a display control unit configured to control a display unit such that a slider configured so that a display object is movable between a plurality of positions set along a predetermined axis is displayed in a part of a display screen; anda process execution unit configured to receive an operation of moving the display object to at least one position among the plurality of positions and control an operation of the imaging unit based on a pre-decided operation mode.
(2)

The information processing device according to (1),wherein the process execution unit receives an operation of moving the display object from a first position which is one of the plurality of positions to a second position different from the first position among the plurality of positions, and starts control of an operation of the imaging unit based on the operation mode.
(3)

The information processing device according to (2),wherein the process execution unit receives an operation of moving the display object from the second position to the first position and ends the started control of the operation of the imaging unit based on the operation mode.
(4)

The information processing device according to (3),wherein the display control unit receives an operation via a second operation unit for operating the imaging unit and moves the display object, the second operation unit being different from a first operation unit receiving an operation of moving the display object.
(5)

The information processing device according to (4),wherein the display control unit receives an operation of starting the control of the operation of the imaging unit based on the operation mode via the second operation unit, and executes control such that the display object located at the first position is moved to the second position.
(6)

The information processing device according to (4),wherein the display control unit receives an operation of ending the started control of the operation of the imaging unit based on the operation mode via the second operation unit, and executes control such that the display object located at the second position is moved to the first position.
(7)

The information processing device according to any one of (2) to (6),wherein the process execution unit receives an operation of maintaining a state in which the display object located at the first position is selected using an operation object and controls an operation of the imaging unit so that the imaging unit transitions to a preparation state for capturing an image, andthe process execution unit receives an operation of moving the display object selected using the operation object from the first position to the second position and causes the imaging unit to capture an image based on the predetermined operation mode.
(8)

The information processing device according to (7),wherein the process execution unit causes the imaging unit transitioning to the preparation state to control a focus position of an imaging photochemical system imaging a subject.
(9)

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (8),wherein the operation mode is set in advance based on an instruction from a user via an operation unit.
(10)

The information processing device according to any one of (2) to (8),wherein the slider is configured such that the display object is movable between the first position and each of a plurality of the second positions,each of the second positions is associated in advance with one operation mode among a plurality of the operation modes, andthe process execution unit receives an operation of moving the display object from the first position to one of the plurality of second positions and controls the operation of the imaging unit based on the operation mode associated with the second position which is a movement destination of the display object.
(11)

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (10),wherein the slider is configured such that the display object is movable between a plurality of positions disposed along a first axis and a plurality of positions disposed along a second axis different from the first axis, andthe process execution unit controls an operation of the imaging unit based on mutually different operation modes between a case of reception of an operation of moving the display object to the position disposed along the first axis and a case of reception of an operation of moving the display object to the position disposed along the second axis.
(12)

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (11),wherein the operation mode includes a mode in which the imaging unit is caused to continuously capture a plurality of still images as a series of images.
(13)

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (11),wherein the operation mode includes a mode in which the imaging unit is caused to execute bulb photography capable of instructing to start and end exposure.
(14)

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (11),wherein the operation mode includes a mode in which the imaging unit is caused to capture a moving image.
(15)

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (14),wherein the process execution unit controls, via a network, an operation of the imaging unit installed in an external device connected via the network.
(16)

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (14),wherein the process execution unit controls an operation of the imaging unit installed in a same casing.
(17)

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (16),wherein the display control unit receives an operation of moving the display object in a direction oriented from a position among the mutually adjacent positions to the other position and moves the display object to the position when a movement amount of the display object is less than a threshold.
(18)

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (17),wherein the display control unit controls the display of the slider according to an attachment or detachment state of a portable auxiliary storage medium to or from the device, the portable auxiliary storage medium being configured to be detachably mounted on a device that records data of an image captured by the imaging unit.
(19)

A program causing a computer to execute:controlling a display unit such that a slider configured so that a display object is movable between a plurality of positions set along a predetermined axis is displayed in a part of a display screen; andreceiving an operation of moving the display object to at least some positions among the plurality of positions and controlling an operation of the imaging unit based on a pre-decided operation mode.
(20)

An information processing method including:controlling a display unit such that a slider configured so that a display object is movable between a plurality of positions set along a predetermined axis is displayed in a part of a display screen; andreceiving, by a processor, an operation of moving the display object to at least one position among the plurality of positions and controlling an operation of the imaging unit based on a pre-decided operation mode.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

1information processing system10information processing terminal11control unit111process execution unit113display control unit13communication unit15UI151display unit153operation unit30imaging device31control unit311process execution unit313transmission control unit33communication unit35imaging unit37storage unit39operation unit