{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854181","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854181","title":"Image processing method and apparatus and terminal device to obtain a group photo including photographer","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2015-08-05T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04N","G06F","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N"],"num_claims":16,"abstract":"A method is disclosed, for performing image processing at a client device, including taking a first photograph comprising a first subject and a first background. The method further includes processing the first photograph to generate a first processed photograph comprising a modified first subject and a modified first background, and aligning the first processed photograph through the display of the client device until a second background shown on the display matches the modified first background. The method further includes taking a second photograph with the first processed photograph aligned in the display of the client device, wherein the second photograph comprises a second subject and the second background, and combining the first photograph and the second photograph to create a third photograph, wherein the third photograph comprises the first subject, the second subject and the first background."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Image Processing Method and Apparatus and Terminal Device to Obtain a Group Photo Including Photographer patent introduces a method for seamlessly including the photographer in group photos using a client device. This innovation solves the common problem of the photographer being absent from group shots by employing a process that involves capturing an initial photograph of the group, processing this image, displaying it on the device's screen to facilitate alignment, capturing a second photograph of the photographer, and then combining the two images into a final composite.\n\nThe key technical approach involves sophisticated image processing algorithms that allow for the accurate alignment and merging of the two photographs. The initial photograph is processed to prepare it for the inclusion of the photographer, potentially involving adjustments to the background, subjects' positions, and other visual elements. The processed image is then displayed on the device's screen, allowing the photographer to align themselves with the scene before taking the second photograph. Finally, the system combines the two photographs, creating a seamless and natural-looking composite.\n\nThe business value of this technology lies in its potential to enhance user experience and drive adoption of imaging devices. By simplifying the process of capturing inclusive group photos, manufacturers can differentiate their products and attract customers who value convenience and ease of use. The market opportunity is significant, as the demand for high-quality, inclusive group photos is widespread across both casual and professional settings.\n\nThis patent has the potential to disrupt the photography industry by offering a practical and innovative solution to a common problem. It opens up new possibilities for creative expression and collaboration, and it could lead to the development of new social media features and applications. The Image Processing Method and Apparatus and Terminal Device to Obtain a Group Photo Including Photographer represents a significant advancement in the field of image processing, offering a compelling value proposition for both consumers and businesses.","layman_explanation":"The Image Processing Method and Apparatus and Terminal Device to Obtain a Group Photo Including Photographer patent addresses a common frustration: the person taking the photo is often excluded from the group picture. This technology provides a way to include the photographer in the final image without resorting to timers or relying on others to take the picture.\n\n**What Problem Does This Solve?**\n\nTaking group photos often means the photographer is left out. Existing solutions, like timers, can be unreliable and lead to missed moments. Asking someone else to take the photo can also be inconvenient and may not result in the desired composition. This patent solves the problem of the 'missing photographer' in a simple and effective way.\n\n**How Does It Work?**\n\nImagine you want to take a picture with your friends. Instead of setting a timer, you first take a picture of your friends without you. The device then processes this image and shows it back to you on the screen. You can see where you need to stand to be included in the photo. Once you're in position, you take a second picture of yourself using the screen as a guide. The device then combines the two pictures, creating a final image with everyone, including you!\n\nThink of it like a digital collage. The first picture provides the background and initial group, while the second picture adds you into the scene seamlessly. The technology uses image processing to make sure the lighting, perspective, and overall look of the final image are natural and cohesive.\n\n**Why Does This Matter?**\n\nThis technology has several important benefits. It makes taking group photos more convenient and inclusive. It also allows for more creative control over the final image. The potential market impact is significant, as it appeals to anyone who takes group photos, from casual users to professional photographers. This innovation could be integrated into smartphones, tablets, and other imaging devices, making it readily accessible to a wide range of users. The competitive advantages for device manufacturers are clear: enhanced user experience and increased customer satisfaction.\n\n**What's Next?**\n\nFuture applications of this technology could include advanced image processing features, such as automatic perspective correction and facial recognition. The market adoption timeline is likely to be relatively short, as the technology is easy to implement and offers immediate benefits to users. From an investment perspective, this patent represents a valuable asset for companies in the digital imaging space.","technical_analysis":"The Image Processing Method and Apparatus and Terminal Device to Obtain a Group Photo Including Photographer patent details a system and method for creating composite photographs that include the photographer, addressing a common limitation in traditional photography. The technical architecture centers on a client device equipped with a camera, display, and image processing capabilities. The process begins with capturing a 'first photograph' of the group without the photographer. This initial image serves as the base layer for the composite.\n\nThe core of the innovation lies in the image processing module. This module analyzes the first photograph, identifying key features and preparing the image for the subsequent integration of the photographer. The specific algorithms employed for this processing are not explicitly detailed in the abstract, but they likely involve techniques such as object detection, segmentation, and perspective correction. The processed image is then displayed on the client device, providing a visual guide for the photographer to align themselves within the scene.\n\nThe alignment process is crucial for creating a seamless composite. The photographer uses the display as a reference, positioning themselves and adjusting their pose to match the perspective and composition of the processed image. Once aligned, the photographer captures a 'second photograph.' The image combination module then merges the first and second photographs, creating a final image that includes both the original group and the photographer. This merging process likely involves techniques such as alpha blending, feathering, and color correction to ensure a smooth and natural transition between the two images.\n\nThe implementation details of this system would require careful consideration of factors such as processing power, memory capacity, and display resolution. The performance characteristics of the image processing algorithms would also be critical, as they need to be fast and efficient to provide a real-time user experience. Integration patterns would involve developing APIs and software libraries that allow developers to incorporate this technology into their own applications. The code-level implications would include optimizing the algorithms for specific hardware platforms and ensuring compatibility with different camera sensors and display technologies.","business_analysis":"The Image Processing Method and Apparatus and Terminal Device to Obtain a Group Photo Including Photographer patent holds significant business implications across various sectors, particularly in the consumer electronics and software industries. The core value proposition lies in solving a ubiquitous problem: the exclusion of the photographer from group photos. This seemingly simple solution opens up a range of market opportunities and competitive advantages.\n\nThe market opportunity size is substantial, encompassing virtually anyone who owns a smartphone or digital camera. The demand for convenient and inclusive photography solutions is high, driven by the increasing importance of visual content in social media and personal communication. This patent offers a unique selling point for device manufacturers, allowing them to differentiate their products and attract customers who value ease of use and inclusivity.\n\nThe competitive advantages derived from this patent are multifaceted. Firstly, it provides a technological edge over competitors who rely on traditional methods for capturing group photos. Secondly, it enhances the user experience, making the process of taking group photos more enjoyable and less cumbersome. Thirdly, it creates opportunities for new business models, such as subscription-based services that offer advanced image processing features. The revenue potential is significant, driven by sales of devices incorporating this technology, licensing agreements with software developers, and subscription fees for premium services.\n\nFrom a strategic positioning perspective, this patent allows companies to position themselves as innovators in the field of digital imaging. It enhances their brand reputation and attracts talent, fostering a culture of innovation and creativity. The ROI projections are favorable, driven by increased sales, higher profit margins, and enhanced brand equity. The Image Processing Method and Apparatus and Terminal Device to Obtain a Group Photo Including Photographer patent represents a valuable asset for any company seeking to capitalize on the growing demand for convenient and inclusive photography solutions.","faqs":null,"topics":["group photo","image processing","photography technology","inclusive photography","digital imaging"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Image Processing for Group Photos - Patent US-9854181","description":"Discover how this innovative image processing method ensures the photographer is included in group photos. Full patent analysis, claims, and technical details.","keywords":["group photo","image processing","photography technology","inclusive photography","digital imaging","patent","patent US-9854181"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854181","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854181","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Image processing method and apparatus and terminal device to obtain a group photo including photographer\" (US-9854181). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854181","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854181","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854181","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T06:12:17.392Z"}