PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-8953094-B2
Application Number: US-201113293936-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Illumination system

Abstract:
A method for capturing an image with an image capture device, such as a camera or mobile electronic device. The method includes initiating a master-slave relationship between the image capture device and at least one secondary device. Once the master-slave relationship is initiated, remotely activating one of an at least one light source of the at least one secondary device. As the light source is activated, capturing a test image of a scene illuminated by the at least one light source by the image capture device. Then, analyzing the test image to determine if an illumination of the scene should be adjusted and if the illumination of the scene is to be adjusted, providing a control signal to the at least one secondary device including at least one of a position instruction, an intensity level, or timing data.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An electronic device to capture images comprising:
 a lens configured to collect light from a scene for an image capture device; 
 an image sensor operatively coupled to the lens; 
 a memory operatively coupled to the image sensor; 
 a display operatively coupled to the memory; 
 a communication mechanism configured to transmit and receive communication signals; 
 a processor operatively coupled to the image sensor, the memory, the display and the communication mechanism, the processor configured to execute instructions stored in the memory to cause the processor to—
 transmit and receive, through the communication mechanism, first communication signals to establish communication with a second device, 
 receive, through the communication mechanism, second communication signals from the second device indicating an initial position of the second device, 
 represent the initial position in a graphical user interface on the display, 
 transmit, through the communication mechanism, third communication signals to activate a light source of the second device, 
 capture, subsequent to transmission of the third communication signals, a test image of the scene, 
 analyze the test image to generate a flash map of the scene for the second device, 
 determine, based at least in part on the flash map for the second device, a target position for the second device, 
 display the scene in the graphical user interface with an indicator of the target location, 
 receive, through the communication mechanism, fourth communication signals indicating the second device is located at the target position, 
 transmit, through the communication mechanism and subsequent to reception of the fourth communication signals, fifth communication signals to reactivate the light source of the second device, 
 capture, subsequent to transmission of the fifth communication signals, a second image of the scene, and 
 store the second image in the memory. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the instructions stored in the memory to cause the processor to determine a target position comprise instructions to cause the processor to determine a target position so as to yield an image that has improved quality when compared to the test image captured at the initial position. 
     
     
       3. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the instructions to cause the processor to transmit third communication signals comprise instructions to cause the processor to transmit, through the communication mechanism, third communication signals to activate a plurality of light sources of the second device. 
     
     
       4. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the instructions to cause the processor to capture a test image comprise instructions to cause the processor to:
 activate, subsequent to transmission of the third communication signals, one or more light sources of the image capture device; and 
 capture, coincident with activation of the one or more light sources of the image capture device, the test image. 
 
     
     
       5. The electronic device of  claim 4 , wherein the instructions to cause the processor to analyze the test image further comprise instructions to cause the processor to generate a flash map of the scene for the image capture device. 
     
     
       6. The electronic device of  claim 5 , wherein the instructions to cause the processor to determine a target position for the second device comprise instructions to cause the processor to determine a target position for the second device based at least in part on the flash map for the second device and the flash map for the image capture device. 
     
     
       7. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the instructions to cause the processor to receive fourth communication signals further comprise instructions to cause the processor to display, in the graphical user interface, movement of the second device from the initial position to the target position. 
     
     
       8. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the instructions to cause the processor to receive fourth communication signals further comprise instructions to cause the processor to generate one or more of an audible notification and a visual notification. 
     
     
       9. The electronic device of  claim 1 , wherein the instructions to cause the processor to transmit fifth communication signals comprise instructions to cause the processor to transmit, through the communication mechanism and subsequent to reception of the fourth communication signals, fifth communication signals to change an intensity of the light source of the second device and, subsequently, to reactivate the light source of the second device. 
     
     
       10. A method executed by an image capture device to capture images comprising:
 establishing communication with a second device; 
 receiving, subsequent to the establishing, first signals from the second device indicating an initial position of the second device; 
 representing the initial position of the second device in a graphical user interface on a display of the image capture device; 
 transmitting second signals to activate a light source of the second device; 
 capturing, subsequent to transmitting the second signals, a test image of a scene with the image capture device; 
 analyzing the test image to generate a flash map of the scene for the second device; 
 determining, based at least in part on the flash map for the second device, a target position for the second device; 
 displaying the scene in the graphical user interface with an indicator of the target location; 
 receiving third signals indicating the second device is located at the target position; 
 transmitting, subsequent to receiving the third signals, fourth signals to reactivate the light source of the second device; 
 capturing, subsequent to transmitting the fourth signals, a second image of the scene; and 
 storing the second image in a memory of the image capture device. 
 
     
     
       11. The method of  claim 10 , wherein determining a target position comprises determining a target position so as to yield an image that has improved quality when compared to the test image captured at the initial position. 
     
     
       12. The method of  claim 10 , wherein capturing a test image comprises:
 activating, subsequent to transmitting the second signals, one or more light sources of the image capture device; and 
 capturing, coincident with activating the one or more light sources of the image capture device, the test image. 
 
     
     
       13. The method of  claim 12 , wherein analyzing the test image further comprises generating a flash map of the scene for the image capture device. 
     
     
       14. The method of  claim 13 , wherein determining a target position for the second device further comprises determining a target position for the second device based at least in part, on the flash map for the image capture device. 
     
     
       15. The method of  claim 10 , wherein receiving third signals further comprises displaying, in the graphical user interface, movement of the second device from the initial position to the target position. 
     
     
       16. The method of  claim 10 , wherein transmitting fourth signals comprises transmitting, subsequent to receiving the third signals, fourth signals to change an intensity of the light source of the second device and, subsequently, to reactivate the light source of the second device. 
     
     
       17. A non-transitory program storage device comprising instructions stored thereon to cause a processor in an image capture device to:
 transmit and receive, through a communication mechanism in the image capture device, first communication signals to establish communication with a second device; 
 receive, through the communication mechanism, second communication signals from the second device indicating an initial position of the second device; 
 represent the initial position in a graphical user interface on a display of the image capture device; 
 transmit, through the communication mechanism, third communication signals to activate a light source of the second device; 
 capture, subsequent to transmission of the third communication signals, a test image of a scene; 
 analyze the test image to generate a flash map of the scene for the second device; 
 determine, based at least in part on the flash map for the second device, a target position for the second device; 
 display the scene in the graphical user interface with an indicator of the target location; 
 receive, through the communication mechanism, fourth communication signals indicating the second device is located at the target position; 
 transmit, through the communication mechanism and subsequent to reception of the fourth communication signals, fifth communication signals to reactivate the light source of the second device; 
 capture, subsequent to transmission of the fifth communication signals, a second image of the scene, and 
 store the second image in a memory of the image capture device. 
 
     
     
       18. The non-transitory program storage device of  claim 17 , wherein the instructions stored in the memory to cause the processor to determine a target position comprise instructions to cause the processor to determine a target position so as to yield an image that has improved quality when compared to the test image captured at the initial position. 
     
     
       19. The non-transitory program storage device of  claim 17 , wherein the instructions to cause the processor to capture a test image comprise instructions to cause the processor to:
 activate, subsequent to transmission of the third communication signals, one or more light sources of the image capture device; and 
 capture, coincident with activation of the one or more light sources of the image capture device, the test image. 
 
     
     
       20. The non-transitory program storage device of  claim 19 , wherein:
 the instructions to cause the processor to analyze the test image further comprise instructions to cause the processor to generate a flash map of the scene for the image capture device; and 
 the instructions to cause the processor to determine a target position for the second device comprise instructions to cause the processor to determine a target position for the second device based at least in part on the flash map for the second device and the flash map for the image capture device.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates generally to using multiple strobes to provide lighting for a scene to be captured by a camera. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Many cameras include a strobe or flash for capturing photographs or images in low light. The range of these integrated flashes may be limited. For example, a typical flash may have a light intensity that decreases by a square of the distance from the source. Use of these integrated flashes may lead to photographs having harsh foreground lighting but poor or no background lighting since the flash originates from the camera and may cast strong shadows as light intensity decreases with a square of the distance from the camera. Additionally, corners of a captured image may have a significant decrease in intensity as the width of the flash may be limited. 
     Additionally, many photographs taken by cameras having an integrated flash may show the “red-eye” phenomenon, where the subject&#39;s eyes appear red. This occurs because the flash is typically located near a lens of the camera, and thus a person or animal may be facing the flash as the image is taken. Red-eye reflections are typically due to light from the flash being focused straight on a person or animal and, due to the high frequency of the flash, the eye does not have time to close. This results in light from the flash being reflected off a retina of the person or animal&#39;s eye; this reflected light is then captured by the camera. Increasing a separation between the flash and the lens can decrease the occurrence of red-eye reflections. However, in small cameras or devices (e.g., smart phones with an integrated camera) this may be difficult to achieve. 
     SUMMARY 
     Examples of embodiments described herein may take the form of a method for capturing an image with an image capture device, such as a camera or mobile electronic device. The method includes initiating a master-slave relationship between the image capture device and at least one secondary device. Once the master-slave relationship is initiated, remotely activating one of an at least one light source of the at least one secondary device. As the light source is activated, capturing a test image of a scene illuminated by the at least one light source by the image capture device. Then, analyzing the test image to determine if an illumination of the scene should be adjusted. If the illumination of the scene is to be adjusted, providing a control signal to the at least one secondary device including at least one of a position instruction, an intensity level, or timing data. 
     Other embodiments may take the form of an electronic device. The electronic device includes a lens, an image sensor in optical communication with the lens, and a processor in communication with the image sensor. The electronic device further includes a communication mechanism in communication with the processor and configured to transmit and receive a control signal to one or more secondary devices. The control signal controls a light source of the one or more secondary devices. 
     Still other embodiments may include a method for capturing an image of a scene with an image capture device. The method may include initiating a master-slave relationship between the image capture device and an at least one secondary device including a remote light source. When the master-slave relationship has been initiated, remotely activating a remote light source of the secondary device. As the remote light source is activated, capturing a first image of the scene illuminated by the remote light source. Then, constructing a flash map corresponding to the secondary device. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  is a front perspective view of a first embodiment of an image capture device. 
         FIG. 1B  is a rear perspective view of the image capture device of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIG. 2A  is a front perspective view of a second embodiment of the image capture device. 
         FIG. 2B  is a rear perspective view of a the image capture device of  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional view of the image capture device taken along line  3 - 3  in  FIG. 1A . 
         FIG. 4  is an example block diagram of the image capture device. 
         FIG. 5  is a top elevation view of an illumination system utilizing the image capture device. 
         FIG. 6  is a block diagram of a secondary device of the illumination system. 
         FIG. 7  is a flow chart illustrating an example method for capturing an image. 
         FIG. 8  is a front elevation view of the image capture device of  FIG. 1A  displaying a graphical user interface. 
         FIG. 9  is a flow chart illustrating an example method for modifying an illumination of a scene and capturing an image of the scene. 
         FIG. 10  is a rear perspective view of the image capture device of  FIG. 1A  including a remote light source. 
         FIG. 11A  is a front perspective view of a first embodiment of the remote light source. 
         FIG. 11B  is a front perspective view of a second embodiment of the remote light source. 
     
    
    
     SPECIFICATION 
     Some embodiments described herein may take the form of an illumination system. The illumination system may include an image capture device and one or more secondary (or “slave”) devices, each including one or more light sources. The light sources of each secondary device may be activated by the image capture device in order to illuminate a scene prior to the image capturing device taking an image of the scene. In one example, the image capture device communicates with each secondary device and, as the image capture device is about to capture an image of the scene, each secondary device activates its light source. The image capture device may automatically adjust the timing and/or intensity of each secondary device or a user may manually adjust an intensity and/or timing of the light sources. 
     Furthermore, the image capture device may provide instructions to a user regarding the placement of each secondary device around a particular scene in order for a desired illumination in a captured image. Likewise, the image capture device may relay such instructions to persons interacting with each of the secondary devices. These relayed instructions may be personalized for each different secondary device. In some embodiments, the instructions may control timing, intensity, duration, and/or angle of the flash. The instructions may also be visible to the persons interacting with each secondary device and may contain instructions for the persons. As one example, a display associated with (or incorporated into) a secondary device may display text instructing a person holding that device to move in a particular direction, for a particular distance, to angle or move the device in a certain manner, and so forth. The secondary device may track its orientation and/or position in absolute or relative terms and determine if the instructions have been followed. This information, in turn, may be relayed to the image capture device. In some embodiments, the image capture device may delay taking an image until all secondary devices relay to it data confirming the instructions have been followed. 
     In one embodiment, the image capture device and the slave devices are mobile electronic device such as smart phones, tablet computers, personal digital assistants, digital cameras and the like. In this embodiment, the image capture device may be the same type of device as the other secondary devices, but act as a master device controlling certain operations of each slave. In another embodiment, the image capture device may be different than the secondary devices. For example, the image capture device may be a camera including a communication mechanism and the secondary devices may be light sources with a communication mechanism. The image capture device may be in communication with the secondary devices wirelessly, e.g., via Bluetooth, WiFi, radio frequency signals, infrared signals and so on. Accordingly, the image capturing device may communicate with each secondary device in order to adjust an intensity of the light sources, the timing of activation of the light sources, and any other desired parameters. 
     In the embodiments disclosed herein, the light sources may be triggered or activated based on a wireless signal from the image capture device. Similarly, a clock in each secondary device may be synchronized with a clock in the image capture device, and the image capture device may provide a time that each light source should flash. The above embodiments ensure that the secondary devices may only be activated in response to a control signal from the image capture device. 
     In prior art strobe or flash systems, each strobe may discharge in response to a light pulse, one example of which is a xenon gas flash having an optical detector. Accordingly, in some instances these strobes may accidentally discharge in response to a flash from another camera or another non-system source. By contrast, the secondary devices of the present disclosure generally are in communication with each other and the image capture device via a specific communication mechanism. In some instances, the communication may be over a secured communication path for example, the secondary devices may be paired with the image capture device on a Bluetooth communication system. Thus, the light sources of the secondary devices may be triggered only when desired, such as through a transmitted instruction. 
     Further embodiments provide a method of providing illumination of a scene in order to capture an image of the scene. The electronic device may capture one or more test images and may analyze each test image in order to determine whether the lighting of the scene should be changed. If the lighting should be altered, the image capture device may communicate with the secondary devices to adjust the timing and/or intensity of the light source for each flash. For example, the image capture device may decrease the intensity of the light sources for secondary devices closer to the image capture device and may increase the intensity of the light sources of secondary devices farther from the image capture device. Thus, the image capture device may capture an image of a scene that is substantially uniformly lit, or otherwise illuminated according to a desired scheme. 
     In one embodiment, the image capture device may include a user interface allowing a user to selectively adjust the illumination of a scene prior to an image of the scene being captured. In another embodiment, the image capture device may adjust the illumination of the scene substantially automatically, e.g., through image processing techniques. 
     Furthermore, other embodiments of the present disclosure may include a remote flash device or removable light source for the image capture device. The remote flash device may be incorporated into a charging device for the image capture device, or may otherwise include a connector that may be received within an input port of the image capture device. 
     The Image Capture Device 
     The methods and devices described herein can be used with substantially any type of apparatus or device that may capture an image.  FIG. 1A  is a front perspective view of an example embodiment of an image capture device  100 .  FIG. 1B  is a rear perspective view of the image capture device  100 . As shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B , in some instances the image capture device  100  may be a mobile electronic device, such as, but not limited to, a smart phone, digital music player, cellular phone, gaming device, tablet computer, notebook computer and so on. In these instances, the mobile electronic device may have an incorporated camera or image sensing device so as to function as the image capture device. However, in other embodiments, the image capture device may be a stand-alone camera or a camera otherwise incorporated into another type of device.  FIG. 2A  is a front perspective view of another embodiment of the image capture device  100 .  FIG. 2B  is a rear perspective of the embodiment of image capture device  100  of  FIG. 2A . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A-2B , the image capture device  100  may include an enclosure  102 , a display  104 , a camera  106 , a light source  108 , one or more input mechanisms  112 ,  114 , and an input port  110 . The enclosure  102  may at least partially surround components of the image capture device  100  and provides a housing for those components. 
     The display  104  provides an output for the image capture device  100 . For example, the display  104  may be a liquid crystal display, plasma display, a light emitting diode (LED) display, or so on. The display  104  may display images captured by the image capture device, may function as a viewfinder and display images that may be within a field of view of the image capture device. Furthermore, the display  104  may also display outputs of the image capture device  100 , such as a graphical user interface, application interfaces, and so on. 
     The display  104  may also function as an input device in addition to displaying output from the image capture device  100 . For example, the display  104  may include capacitive touch sensors, infrared touch sensors, or the like that may track a user&#39;s touch on the display  104 . In these embodiments, a user may press on the display  104  in order to provide input to the image capture device  100 . 
     The image capture device  100  may include one or more input mechanisms  112 ,  114 . The input mechanisms  112 ,  114  may be positioned substantially anywhere on the image capture device  100  and provide a mechanism for a user to communicate an input to the image capture device  100 . For example, a user may press down on a first input mechanism  112  to indicate that he or she wishes to capture an image of a scene. In another example, the user may select a second input mechanism  114  to provide input to a graphical user interface, an application or the like. 
     The input port  110  may provide an input for the image capture device  100 . The input port  110  may be configured to receive substantially any type of connector, such as but not limited to, a universal serial bus (USB) connector, a tip ring sleeve connector, a micro-USB connector, and so on. There may be multiple input ports  110  spaced around the image capture device  110 . For example, a first input port  110  may be configured to receive a charging cable and a second input port  110  may be configured to receive a trip ring sleeve or other audio connector. 
     The image capture device  100  may also include one or more cameras  106 ,  116 . The cameras  106 ,  116  may be positioned substantially anywhere on the image capture device  100 ; and there may be one or more cameras  106 ,  116  on each device  100 . The cameras  106 ,  116  capture light from an image.  FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional view of a first camera  106  in  FIG. 1A , taken along line  3 - 3  in  FIG. 1A . However, it should be noted that the cameras  106 ,  116  may be substantially similar to each other. That said, with reference to  FIG. 3 , each camera  106 ,  116  may include a lens  122  in optical communication with an image sensor  124 . The lens  122  may be spaced apart from a top surface of the image sensor  124 , in this manner light transmitted through the lens  122  may encounter the image sensor  124 . 
     The lens  122  may be substantially any type of optical device that may transmit and/or refract light. In one example, the lens  122  is in optical communication with the sensor  124 , such the lens  122  may passively transmit light from a field of view (FOV)  126  to the sensor  124 . The lens  122  may include a single optical element or may be a compound lens and include an array of multiple optical elements. In some examples, the lens  122  may be glass or transparent plastic; however, other materials are also possible. The lens  122  may additionally include a curved surface, and may be a convex, bio-convex, plano-convex, concave, bio-concave, and the like. The type of material of the lens as well as the curvature of the lens  122  may be dependent on the desired applications of the system  122 . Furthermore, it should be noted that the lens  122  may be stationary within the image capture device  100 , or the lens  122  may selectively extend and/or rotate within the image capture device  100 . 
     The image sensor  124  may be substantially any type of sensor that may capture an image or sense a light pattern. The sensor  124  may be able to capture visible, non-visible, infrared and other wavelengths of light. The sensor  124  may be an image sensor that converts an optical image into an electronic signal. For example, the sensor  124  may be a charged coupled device, complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor, or photographic film. The sensor  124  may be in optical communication or electrical communication with a filter that may filter select light wavelengths, or the sensor  124  itself may be configured to filter select wavelengths, e.g., the sensor may include photodiodes only sensitive to certain wavelengths of light. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1A-2B , the image capture device  100  may also include a light source  108 ,  118  or strobe. The light source  108 ,  118  may be substantially any type of device that may produce light, such as but not limited to, a LED, light bulb, or a flash tube or other electrical arc device (e.g., xenon strobe). The light source  108 ,  118  selectively illuminates a scene or parts of a scene within the FOV  126  of the lens  122 . The light sources  108 ,  118  may be positioned near the lens  122 ; however, in other embodiments, the light source  108 ,  118  may be spaced apart from the lens  122 . That is, the light source  108  may be a separate attachment for the image capture device  100  such as a detached flash attachment (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 11A and 11B ). 
     The image capture device  100  may also include additional components for processing images and communicating with additional devices.  FIG. 4  is a block diagram illustrating select components of the image capture device  100 . The image capture device  100  may also include a communication mechanism  128  or network/communication interface, a processor  130 , and memory  134 . Additionally, select components of the image capture device  100  may be in communication via one or more system buses  132 . 
     The communication mechanism  128  may receive and transmit various electrical signals. The communication mechanism  128  may be used to send and receive data from secondary devices, as discussed in more detail below with respect to  FIG. 5 . Additionally, the communication mechanism  128  may be used to place phone calls from the image capture device  100 , may be used to receive data from a network, or may be used to send and transmit electronic signals via a wireless or wired connection (e.g., Internet, WiFi, radio waves, Bluetooth, or Ethernet). In one embodiment, the communication mechanism  128  may include a transmitter in communication with the processor  130  to send data to other devices and a receiver configured to receive signals from other devices. 
     The processor  130  may control operation of the image capture device  100  and its various components. The processor  130  may be in communication with the display  104 , the communication mechanism  128 , the memory  134 , and may activate and/or receive input from the image sensor  124  as necessary or desired. The processor  130  may be any electronic device cable of processing, receiving, and/or transmitting instructions. For example, the processor  130  may be a microprocessor or a microcomputer. Furthermore, the processor  130  may also adjust settings on the image sensor  124 , adjust an output of the captured image on the display  104 , may adjust a timing signal of the light source  108 ,  118 , analyze images, and so on. 
     Illumination System 
     The image capture device  100  may provide signals and/or may control a series of secondary devices in order to illuminate a scene within the FOV  126 .  FIG. 5  is a top plan view of a diagram illustrating an illumination system  200  utilizing the image capture device  100 . The system  200  may include the image capture device  100  and one or more secondary devices  202 A,  202 B,  202 C. The image capture device  100  may function as a master device and may control or provide signals relating to certain aspects of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. Thus, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be slave devices to the image capture device  100 . In one example, the image capture device  100  may control a light source of each secondary device  202 A- 202 C to provide a desired illumination of the scene. 
     In some embodiments the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be substantially the same as the image capture device  100 . For example, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be smart phones, tablet computers, mobile electronic devices, digital cameras, and the like. In these embodiments, the “master” device and the “slaves” or secondary devices may be chosen based on something other than the components of the each device, e.g., a position of each device with respect to a scene, user preference, and so on. 
     However, in other embodiments, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be different from the image capture device  100 . For example, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be single light sources, such as a xenon or other type of light strobe.  FIG. 6  is a block diagram of an example secondary device  202 . Each secondary device  202  may include a light source  208 , a processor  230 , and a communication mechanism  228 . Each of the illustrated components may be substantially the same as the corresponding components of the image capture device  100 . Alternatively, in some embodiments, the light source  208  of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may produce a more intense light than light source  108  in the image capture device  100 . For example, the light source  208  of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be a xenon strobe light whereas the light source  108  for the image capture device  100  may be a LED. Similarly, the processor  230  of the secondary device  202  may have reduced capabilities as compared with the processor  130 , this may allow the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C to use less power as compared with the image capture device  100 . 
     Returning now to  FIG. 5 , the system  200  may provide enhanced illumination of a scene within the FOV  126  of the image capture device  100 . The image capture device  100  may initiate control of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. For example, the image capture device  100  and the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may each have an illumination application and the user may select a master device, that becomes the image capture device  100 , and one or more slave devices that become the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. 
     Once the image capture device  100  and secondary devices  202 A- 202 C are selected, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be tied or paired with the image capture device  100  and optionally the other secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. In one embodiment, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may include a program or application that may be activated to provide a connection to the image capture device  100 . In this embodiment, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may include the same application or program as the image capture device  100 , but may have been selected as the “slave” devices. The secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be tied to the image capture device  100  when the program or application is activated on each particular device  202 A- 202 C. 
     In another embodiment, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may receive a coded control signal to set them into a “slave” mode. In this embodiment, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be configured to first require a user input prior to accepting such control signals or messages. The slave mode could be built into an operating system of the devices  202 A- 202 C or may built into a program or application running on the devices  202 A- 202 C. 
     In yet another embodiment, the image capture device  100  and the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be paired together through a protocol such as Bluetooth or across network such as WiFi, such that secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be associated with and controlled by the image capture device  100 . In this embodiment, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C and the image capture device  100  may share a link key, control word, password, and so on to allow them to communicate to each other, as well as to allow the image capture device  100  to function as a master for the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. 
     Once the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C are paired with the image capture device  100 , the image capture device  100  may transmit and receive commands and/or other signals to and from the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. In one embodiment, the image capture device  100  may provide controls for activating the light source  208  of each secondary device  202 A- 202 C. For example, the image capture device  100  may determine the activation time, the activation duration, the light intensity, and the like of the light source  208  for each particular secondary device  202 A- 202 C. 
     Furthermore, the image capture device  100  may also transmit signals that may cause the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C to display a certain message. In embodiments where the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C are mobile electronic devices, the image capture device  100  may transmit instructions for a user supporting the device. For example, if a particular secondary device  202 A- 202 C is too close to the image capture device  100 , the image capture device  100  may transmit directions related to a new position, e.g., move  10  feet away from the image capture device  100 . 
     In one example, the image capture device  100  may transmit the control signals over the network to each of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. Each secondary device  202 A- 202 C may examine the signal to determine if it contains a unique identifier. If the signal contains the unique identifier, the secondary device may determine that it is an intended recipient of the signal and processes it accordingly. In other embodiments, such protocols may be established through the initial contact and transmissions between the image capture device  100  and secondary device(s)  202 A- 202 C. 
     In a second example, the image capture device  100  may transmit the control signals to each specific device. In this example, the control signal may not include a specific identifier as it may be sent directly to one or more select secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. 
     In a third example, the image capture device  100  may transmit at least one control signal as a light signal. For example, the light source  108  of the image capture device  100  may send a pre-flash sequence of light flashes to indicate to the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C to activate their respective light sources  208 . In this example, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may include an optical detector or sensor, such as a photodiode, or a camera (if included) in each of these devices  202 A- 202 C. It should also be noted that the image capture device  100  may provide controls to the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C in substantially any other manner and the aforementioned examples are meant to be examples only. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be positioned around a scene  210  (e.g., a landscape, object(s), person(s)) to be captured by the image capture device  100 . As used herein “scene” refers to any background and/or objects within the FOV  126  of the image capture device  100  and “image” refers to a digital representation of the scene. The position of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be determined by one or more users, who may position the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C according to an instruction from the image capture device  100  or their own wishes. In some embodiments, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may relay their relative or actual position and/or angular placement to the image capture device  100 . For example, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may include one or more accelerometers, gyroscopes, or global positioning devices in order to determine their angle and position. 
     The secondary devices  202 A- 202 C provide light to illuminate the scene  210  as well as to counteract or balance out a background light source  214 . In this manner, an image captured by the image capture device  100  may have substantially uniform illumination, such that shadows and/or clipping (e.g., light intensity exceeding a display or capture threshold) may be eliminated. 
     Furthermore, in some embodiments, the light source  108  of the image capture device  100  may not provide light for the captured image. In these embodiments, the chance that an image of a person or animal including a red-eye reflection may be reduced. This is because the light sources  208  may be positioned off-center from the person of animal as the image is captured by the image capture device  100 . Red-eye reflections, as described above, are typically due to light being positioned directly towards an eye of a person or animal and reflecting back off the eye. Also, the light sources  208  of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may also be laterally spaced apart form the lens  122  to further enhance the picture quality and reduce red-eye reflections. 
     An example method for capturing an image via the illumination system  200  will now be discussed in more detail.  FIG. 7  is flow chart of an example method for capturing an image. The method  300  may begin with operation  302  and the image capture device  100  may initiate communication with the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. For example, as previously described above, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C and the image capture device  100  may pair with one another or otherwise provide a communication mechanism so that the image capture device  100  may provide at least one control signal to the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. In some embodiments, the relationship may be initiated with each device  100 ,  202 A- 202 C independently That is, a user may initiate an application on each device. 
     After a relationship between the image capture device  100  and the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C has been established, the method  300  may proceed to operation  304 . During operation  304 , the image capture device  100  may synchronize the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. For example, an internal clock for the image capture device  100  may be synchronized with an internal clock of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C, e.g., via reference broadcast synchronization, a protocol such as IEEE 1488, network time protocol, and so on. 
     In another example, the image capture device  100  may provide a pre-flash sequence in order to synchronize the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. For example, the light source  108  may emit a light flash prior to capturing the image. The secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may detect the light flash (through a light sensor) and prepare to initiate their respective light sources  208 , which may be substantially instantaneously after detecting the light flash. 
     Once the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C are synchronized with the image capture device  100 , the method  300  may proceed to operation  306 . In operation  306 , the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C activate their respective light sources  208 . Optionally, the image capture device  100  may also activate its light source  108 . The activation of each light source  108 ,  208  may depend on the device, but generally may include emitting a flash of light, or otherwise providing illumination. 
     As the light sources  108 ,  208  are activating the method  300  proceeds to operation  308  and the image capture device  100  captures an image of the scene  210 . In one embodiment, light from the scene  210  (including the background light  214 , if any) and the light from the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C is transmitted through the lens  122 . The light is then captured by the image sensor  124  and may be converted into an electrical signal. 
     The illumination system  200  and the image capture method  300  may increase the quality of images captured by the image capturing device  100 . This is because the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may be laterally separated from the image capture device  100 , which may reduce the likelihood of a person or animal within the scene from having a red-eye reflection in the captured image. Additionally, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C provide light sources  208  at different distances and options from the image capture device  100 , allowing light from each secondary device  202 A- 202 C to fill in gaps in each other devices  202 A- 202 C beam pattern, as well as extend the lit-range that may be captured by the image capture device  100 . 
     Furthermore, in embodiments where the image capture device  100  may transmit signals to the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C via an electronic signal, the light sources  208  may be substantially prevented from firing prematurely, By contrast, conventional flash strobes that may be optically triggered maybe triggered accidentally. For example, many photographs use optically triggered strobes that may trigger in response to another signal, e.g., a second camera, lightening, etc. 
     Adjusting the Light Intensity and Duration 
     The illumination system  200 , as shown in  FIG. 5 , may be used to vary the light intensity, overall image exposure, and/or light positioning for an image captured by the image capture device  100 . As discussed above, the image capture device  100  may provide more than one control signal to the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. The additional control signals may vary the intensity, timing, and/or directions with to move a location of the light sources  208 . 
     In one example, the image capture device  100  may display a graphical user interface (GUI) on the display  104  so that a user can selectively adjust the illumination and/or timing of the light sources  208  of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C.  FIG. 8  is a front plan view of the image capture device  100  illustrating an example GUI  240 . The GUI  240  may include an image  248  of the scene  210 , a control icon  242 , a controller  242 , as well as a secondary device indicator  246 A,  246 B,  246 C for each secondary device  202 A- 202 C in communication with the image capture device  100 . It should be noted that the GUI  240  illustrated in  FIG. 8  is one example only, and other displays and controllers are envisioned. 
     The image  248  of the scene  210  displayed on the GUI  240  may be an actual image captured by the image sensor  124  or a sample image that may be captured by the image sensor  124 . For example, the captured image  248  may be a previously taken photograph or may be a view of a sample photograph, e.g., as viewed by the lens  122  prior to actually capturing the image. Accordingly, the user may adjust the light sources  208  to effect a new image of the scene  210 . In some embodiments, the GUI  240  may be displayed on the display  104  of the image capture device  100 , on one or more of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C, and/or on another computing device (e.g., laptop, desktop) in communication with the image capture device  100 . 
     The GUI  240  may also include the control icon  242  and controller  244 . The control icon  242  may be represented as substantially any type of icon, and in one embodiment as shown in  FIG. 8  may be a bar. The controller  244  may be moved with respect to the icon  242  to adjust a particular setting. For example, the control icon  242  may correspond to an intensity of a particular light source (e.g., light sources  108 ,  208 ), and as a user manipulates the controller  244  the intensity level for the light source may vary. In this example, a first end of the control icon  242  may be a high intensity and a second end of the control icon  242  may be a low intensity, and depending on the placement of the controller  244 , the intensity level for the particular light source is varied. 
     In some embodiments, as the controller  244  is moved, the displayed image  248  may adjust correspondingly. For example, as the intensity of the light source  208  for a particular secondary device  202 A- 202 C is increased, the brightness of the portions of the image illuminated by that secondary device  202 A- 202 C may be increased. In this manner, the user may be able to see how the adjustment may affect the eventually captured image. This may allow the use to better be able to determine how to adjust a particular light source in order to achieve a desired image. 
     The GUI  240  also may include an indicator  246 A- 246 C for each secondary device  202 A- 202 C and/or the image capture device  100 . In this manner, the user may select the particular device in which to adjust the light source. For example, the user may select the first indicator  246 A which may correspond to the first secondary device  202 A and as the user moves the controller  244  in a particular manner, the intensity of the light source  208  of the first secondary device  202 A may be adjusted accordingly. After the user has selected completed adjusting the particular device, the image capture device  100  may transmit a control signal to the particular secondary device  202 A- 202 C with the new control information. In another example, the image capture device  100  may transmit all of the control signals or information simultaneously to each of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. 
     Furthermore, the GUI  240  may also display relative distance instructions with respect to the position of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C, as well as an example image of the scene as each secondary device  202 A- 202 C is positioned in a different location. For example, the image capture device  100  may receive positioning data for each secondary device  202 A- 202 C. The positioning data may correspond to a location of the secondary device  202 A- 202 C with respect to the scene  210  or the image capture device  100  and may include an angle of the secondary device  202 A- 202 C. Thus, a user may be able to not only determine how the intensity of the light sources  208  may affect a captured image of the scene, but also how the positions of each secondary device  202 A- 202 C may affect the captured image. 
     It should be noted that the GUI  240  may present controls for substantially any type of parameter of the image, image capture device  100 , or secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. For example, the user may be able to control an exposure length of light through the lens  122  of the image capture device  100 , a color of a particular light source (e.g., the devices may include multiple colored lights), the timing of the activation of a particular light source, a color filter for the image sensor  124 , and so on. 
     In addition to the GUI  240 , the image capture device  100  or another device (e.g., laptop) may be used to adjust aspects of a captured image. An example method for adjusting the illumination and other image characteristics for the illumination system  200  will now be discussed.  FIG. 9  is a flow chart illustrating an example method for adjusting aspects of a captured image. The method  320  may begin with operation  322  and the image capture device  100  may initiate a master-slave relationship with the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. As discussed above with respect to  FIG. 5 , this type of relationship allows the image capture device  100  to transmit control signals to the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. Additionally, the relationship may also allow the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C to send signals to the image capture device  100  as well. 
     Once the master-slave relationship is initiated, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C may respond to signals from the image capture device  100 . The method  320  may then proceed to operation  324  and the light sources  208  (and optionally light source  108 ) may be activated. As described in operation  306  in  FIG. 7 , the image capture device  100  may transmit a signal to activate the light sources  208  of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C and optionally may activate its own light source  108 . 
     As the light sources  108 ,  208  are activated, the method  320  may proceed to operation  326  and the image capture device  326  may capture one or more test images. For example, in one embodiment, a one or more images may be captured by the image capture device  100  with the light sources  208  of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C illuminating the scene at varying intensities and/or times. This generally allows the image capture device  100  to capture images of the scene  210  with each secondary device  202 A- 202 C activating its light source  208  independently and at different intensities. In another example, the image capture device  100  may capture images of the scene  210  with each of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C activating its light source  208  at the same time, but with varying intensities. The test images are captured by the image sensor  124  and may be evaluated by the user or the image capture device  100  to determine if certain parameters or settings should be adjusted, as described in more detail below. 
     After operation  326 , the method  320  may proceed to operation  328  and the image capture device  100  may display an option permitting the user to adjust the lighting for the scene  210 . Alternatively, as described below in more detail with respect to operation  330 , the image capture device  100  may evaluate the image itself to determine if the lighting or other settings should be adjusted. Accordingly, either the user or the image capture device  100  may determine whether the image should be adjusted. If the illumination of the scene  210  (and thus a captured image) is not to be adjusted, the method  320  may proceed to the end of method  320  and the test image may be retained as the “final” image. In other words, the test image may be stored in the memory  134  or an option may be presented to the user to store the test image in the memory  134 . Alternatively, if the illumination is not to be adjusted, the method  320  may proceed to operation  348  and a new image may be captured. This may allow the test images to be separate from the captured images, thus the test images may be locked out from adjustment by a user, have a reduced data amount, or so on. 
     If the illumination or another parameter of the scene  210  is to be adjusted in operation  328 , the method  320  may proceed to operation  330 . In operation  330 , the image capture device  100  may determine whether the adjustments will be done automatically or by the user. For example, the image capture device  100  may present an option to the user to determine whether he or she would like to manually adjust the scene illumination or whether he or she may wish to have the image capture device  100  adjust the scene illumination. In another example, the image capture device  100  may have a certain setting for a particular application or user that may determine whether the image capture device  100  should do the adjustments or whether the user will be doing the adjustments. 
     If the user elects to make adjustments manually, the method  320  may proceed to operation  332  and the image capture device  100  may display the GUI  240 . As the GUI  240  is displayed, the image capture device  100  may receive user input adjusting the illumination in the scene  210 . For example, with reference to  FIG. 8 , the user may physically manipulate the controller  244  (e.g., if the device  100  includes an input mechanism), or may manipulate the controller  244  through the input mechanisms  112 ,  114 . Similarly, the user may also determine which secondary device  202 A- 202 C light source  208  will be manipulated, e.g., by selecting a particular indicator  246 A- 202 C. Further, the user may physically change the position of the secondary devices  202 AA- 202 C with respect to the scene  210 . 
     It should be noted that, in some embodiments, the image capture device  100  may provide the user with assistance in adjusting the illumination of the scene  210 . Referring briefly to  FIG. 8 , certain aspects of the captured image  248  on the GUI  240  may illuminate, change colors, move, or provide another type of indicator if a position or intensity of a particular light source  208  for a secondary device  202 A- 202 C is positioned ineffectively (as determined by the processor  130 ). This may provide the user additional information when making changes to the location and/or intensity of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. In some embodiments, the device  100  may perform a series of preprogrammed operations to cycle through lighting schemes provided by the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C and show the user the image to be captured under each lighting scheme. The user may then select a particular test image from amongst the various displayed images. Once the user selection is complete, the image capture device  100  may adjust the flash map of each light source  208  accordingly, as described below. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 9 , if the adjustments are to done by the image capture device  100 , the method  320  may proceed to operation  336 . In operation  336  the processor  130  may analyze the one or more test images to determine and/or extract the background exposure. The background exposure may include background light sources  214 , such as a lamp, sun, television, or the like. The background exposure may be determined by taking a test image in operation  324  prior to activating any of the system  200  light sources or may be determined by analyzing the various test images taken in operation  324  to extract the background image. For example, in each test image the intensity and duration of each light source  208  may be known, so the background light  214  may be determined by an analysis and comparison of various test images. 
     Once the background exposure is determined in operation  336 , the method  320  may proceed to operation  338 . In operation  338  the image capture device  100  may determine one or more flash or strobe maps or images. The flash maps may provide data with respect to scene  210  and the system  200  regarding how each particular secondary device  202 A- 202 C may affect the overall captured image. In other words, when the light source  208  of a particular secondary device  202 A- 202 C is activated at a certain intensity, the flash map may determine how it affects the overall captured image of the scene  210 . Also, the image capture device  100  may receive feedback from each secondary device  202 A- 202 C regarding its position and/or angle. In this manner, the image capture device  100  can better determine the flash map for each particular secondary device  202 A- 202 C based on position, timing, intensity, and/or angle of the light source  208  for each device  202 A- 202 C. 
     In one embodiment, multiple test images at multiple intensities may be captured by the image capture device  100  in order to create a high dynamic range flash map. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the test images may be stored at a lower resolution or smaller data file in the memory  134 . This may allow the image capture device  100  to utilize the date in each test image, without overly burdening the memory  134 . However, in other embodiments, the test images and flash maps may be stored as normal images within the memory  134 . 
     After the flash map(s) are determined, the method  320  may proceed to operation  340  and the image capture device  100  may calculate and adjust the light source intensity and timing. For example, the image capture device  100  may utilize the flash map to determine how each particular secondary device  202 A- 202 C may affect the overall captured image. Then, the processor  130  may adjust the light sources  208  for each secondary device  202 A- 202 C (and optionally the light source  108  of the image capture device  100 ), in accordance with a previous user setting, based on an uniform illumination analysis, or the like. 
     In one example, the image capture device  100  may adjust the light sources  208  and/or position (by providing positioning instructions) of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C using heuristics such as maximizing overall brightness of the captured image while avoiding clipping, in order to select the proper adjustments for the system  200 . “Clipping,” as used herein, generally refers to when an intensity in a certain area of an image falls outside the minimum and maximum intensity which can be represented by the image sensor  124 . 
     For example, the processor  130  may divide the captured test images into a series of quadrants or zones and then may assess the response for each captured test image in each quadrant. The intensity of the light source  208  for each secondary device  202 A- 202 C (and optionally the light source  108 ) may then be the variables for each image. The processor  130  may then construct one or more linear equations to determine a desired result, e.g., with what settings for each device  202 A- 202 C does the captured image go beyond a max value without clipping some percentage of the pixels. 
     In another example, the processor  130  may analyze certain objects within the scene with polarization or other imaging techniques to better determine how the light may need to be adjusted in order to best capture the scene  210 . The aforementioned examples are some examples of a determination process and other determination processes are envisioned. Once the image capture device  100  has determined the desired adjustments for the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C, the method  320  may proceed to operation  342 . In operation  342 , the image capture device  100  may transfer the desired adjustment data to each of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. The image capture device  100  may transfer the data so that each of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C can make the adjustments on their own, or through the master-slave relationship, the image capture device  100  may adjust the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C itself. 
     Further, in some embodiments, the image capture device  100  may display on the GUI  240  or on a display of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C directions for position data, so that one or more users may move the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C in accordance with the desired scene illumination. In these embodiments, the image capture device  100  may also receive data corresponding the actual position and/or angle of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. This may allow the image capture device  100  to dynamically adjust the positioning instructions for the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C. For example, the positioning instructions may provide a green light and direction arrow on a display of each secondary device  202 A- 202 C pointing in a direction the device  202 A- 202 C is to be moved. Then, once the secondary device  202 A- 202 C has reached the correct position, a red light may be displayed. Other indicators are possible as well. For example, the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C could provide spoken directions, other displayed icons, or the like. 
     Once the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C have been appropriately adjusted, the method  320  may proceed to operation  344 . In operation  344  the image capture device  100  may optionally adjust the time that the exposure time. In other words, the time that the image sensor  124  may be exposed to light transmitted through the lens. For example, in some embodiments, the image capture device  100  may include a shutter covering the image sensor  124  until an image is going to be captured. In operation  344 , the image capture device  100  may determine how long the shutter is raised to allow light from the lens  122  to encounter the image sensor  124 . The exposure time affects the amount of light that may be transmitted through the lens  122  to the image sensor  124  and may be adjusted based on a preference of the user and/or a desired captured image appearance. Accordingly, the exposure time may be adjusted to control the background light level, the longer the exposure time, the brighter the background light level that may be captured in the image. 
     After operation  324  or after operation  334 , the method  320  may proceed to operation  346  and the light sources  208  of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C and optionally, the light source  108  of the image capture device  100 , may be activated. As the light sources  208  are activated, the method  320  may proceed to operation  348  and the image capture device  100  may capture an image of the scene  210 . Light from the scene  210 , as illuminated by the background light  214  and the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C, may be transmitted through the lens  122  and captured by the image sensor  124 . Once the image has been captured, the method  320  may return to operation  328  and the user or the image capture device  100  may determine whether the lighting may need to be adjusted again. However, once the desired image has been captured, the method  320  may end. 
     The method  320  and the system  200  may provide a number of different captured images. In one example, the range of images captured by the image capture device  100  may be represented by Eq. (1) listed below.
 
 t   e   *I   0   +a   1   *I   1   +a   2   *I   2   + . . . a   n   *I   n   Eq. (1)
 
     In Eq. (1), t e  is the exposure period or exposure time, I 0  is the background image or background light, a i  represents the various amplitudes (e.g., intensity) of the light sources  208  of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C, and I 1  to I n  are the various test images that may be captured in operation  326 . Accordingly, as the exposure time and various amplitudes and intensities of the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C are modified, the capture images may be modified. Further, depending on the number of secondary sources  202 A- 202 C, additional image ranges are possible. 
     The method  320  also provides a system for controlling and balancing external light sources for capturing an image. Some conventional digital cameras may include an internal xenon strobe or light source. These integrated light sources may generally include a separate photodiode for intensity and exposure control. When the diode signal integrates itself into the desired intensity level of the strobe, the strobe is extinguished. In these types of cameras, the exposure and/or intensity of the strobe cannot be controlled from the captured image as the strobe duration is typically shorter than the frame readout period for the image sensor. By contrast, the system  200  and method  320  as described herein allow the user to view how changes to position and intensity of each light source  208  may affect an image via the image capture device  100 . Additionally, the light sources  208  may be digitally or electronically controlled, as opposed to a diode sensing an optical change and thus may be more easily corrected. 
     Furthermore, in conventional lighting systems including multiple strobes, the control process may be even more difficult. This is because each individual strobe may have a separate photodiode detector for control, however, the sum of a group of strobes cannot be automatically adjusted. Rather, a user generally has to adjust each strobe intensity manually through a process of trial and error, which depending on the strobes can be laborious and time extensive. By contrast, the illumination system  200  and method  320  allow the image capture device  100  itself to change each of the light sources  208 , as well as allow a user to view how changes to certain light sources  208  may appear. 
     Remote Light Source 
     In addition to the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C, or as a secondary device  202 A- 202 C, a remote light source may also be used to illuminate the scene  210 .  FIG. 10  is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the image capture device and a remote light source  400  connected thereto.  FIG. 11A  is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the remote light source  400 .  FIG. 11B  is a front perspective view of a second embodiment of a remote light source  440 . The remote light source  400 ,  440  may include a light source  402 ,  420  and a connection mechanism  404 ,  444 . The light source  402 ,  420  may be substantially the same as the light source  108 ,  208  in the image capture device  100  and the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C, respectively. 
     The connection mechanism  404 ,  444  may be received within an input port  110  of the image capture device  100 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 11A , the connection mechanism  404  may be a universal serial bus plug. Alternatively or additionally, the connection mechanism  444  may be configured to be received within a wall outlet or other charging apparatus. For example, as shown in  FIG. 11B , the connection mechanism  444  may include one or more prongs configured to be received within a wall outlet. 
     In certain embodiments, the remote light source  400 ,  440  may not be connected to the image capture device  100 , but may be positioned similar to the secondary devices  202 A- 202 C near the image capture device  100 . In other examples, the remote light sources  400 ,  440  may be connected to the image capture device  100  when providing illumination to the scene  210 . However, the remote light source  400 ,  440  may be positioned on the image capture device  100  spaced apart from the lens  122 . Thus, the remote light source  400 ,  440  may provide illumination with a decreased change of red-eye illumination. 
     Further, the remote light source  400 ,  440  may be integrated or operably associated with a charging cable, data cable, or other type of connector for the image capture device  100 . In these embodiments, the remote light source  400 ,  440  may be easy for a user to have when he or she wishes to take a photograph, as generally people may carry a charger for a specific electronic device when they take the electronic device to different places. On the contrary, a user may not typically remember to bring a removable flash for an electronic device, as he or she may not realize that he or she may want to take a photograph prior to leaving a house or the like. 
     The remote light source  400 ,  440  may be activated directly by the image capture device  100 . For example, data may be communicated through the connector mechanism  404 ,  444 . In other embodiments, the remote light source  400 ,  440  may be activated remotely by the image capture device  100 . In these embodiments, the remote light source  400 ,  440  may receive and/or send signals to the image capture device  100  in order to receive a control signal and/or activate signal. 
     CONCLUSION 
     The foregoing description has broad application. For example, while examples disclosed herein may focus on utilizing a smart phone or mobile computing device, it should be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein may equally apply to other image capturing devices and light sources. Similarly, although the illumination system may be discussed with respect to activating a series of light sources, the devices and techniques disclosed herein are equally applicable to any type of output. Accordingly, the discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be an example and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these examples.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20111110
Publication Date: 20150210
Grant Date: 20150210
Priority Date: 20111110
Inventors: BAER RICHARD L.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H04N23/631", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/661", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/74", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/631", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/661", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/74", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N5/23206", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N5/2354", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B2215/0557", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B15/05", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B2215/0557", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B2215/0557", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B15/05", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G03B15/05", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 48280295