Image processing apparatus, method, and program

An image processing method for generating distance data based on a plurality of images photographed from different positions, the method comprising the steps of:

• searching for corresponding points corresponding to each other between each of the plurality of images based on a correlation between each pixel in each of the plurality of images;
• when a plurality of corresponding points is searched out in a second image of the plurality of images with respect to one target pixel in a first image of the plurality of images, calculating at least partial subject shape around the target pixel based on distance values of a plurality of pixels around the target pixel;
• calculating a target distance value, which is a distance value of the target pixel, with respect to each of the plurality of corresponding points based on the target pixel and each of the plurality of corresponding points;
• and
• determining a valid corresponding point from the plurality of corresponding points having a smallest difference from the subject shape.

A computer readable recording medium on which is recorded a program for causing a computer to perform an image processing method for generating distance data based on a plurality of images photographed from different positions, the program including the steps of:

• searching for corresponding points corresponding to each other between each of the plurality of images based on a correlation between each pixel in each of the plurality of images;
• when a plurality of corresponding points is searched out in a second image of the plurality of images with respect to one target pixel in a first image of the plurality of images, calculating at least partial subject shape around the target pixel based on distance values of a plurality of pixels around the target pixel;
• calculating a target distance value, which is a distance value of the target pixel, with respect to each of the plurality of corresponding points based on the target pixel and each of the plurality of corresponding points;
• and
• determining a valid corresponding point from the plurality of corresponding points having a smallest difference from the subject shape.