What is Image Processing?
Image processing is a physical process used to convert an image signal into a physical image. The image signal can be either digital or analog. The actual output itself can be an actual physical image or the characteristics of an image.
The most common type of image processing is photography. In this process, an image is captured using a camera to create a digital or analog image. In order to produce a physical picture, the image is processed using the appropriate technology based on the input source type.
In digital photography, the image is stored as a computer file. This file is translated using photographic software to generate an actual image. The colors, shading, and nuances are all captured at the time the photograph is taken the software translates this information into an image.
When creating images using analog photography, the image is burned into a film using a chemical reaction triggered by controlled exposure to light. The image is processed in a darkroom, using special chemicals to create the actual image. This process is decreasing in popularity due to the advent of digital photography, which requires less effort and special training to product images.
In addition to photography, there are a wide range of other image processing operations. The field of digital imaging has created a whole range of new applications and tools that were previously impossible. Face recognition software, medical image processing and remote sensing are all possible due to the development of digital image processing. Specialized computer programs are used to enhance and correct images. These programs apply algorithms to the actual data and are able to reduce signal distortion, clarify fuzzy images and add light to an underexposed image.
Image processing techniques were first developed in 1960 through the collaboration of a wide range of scientists and academics. The main focus of their work was to develop medical imaging, character recognition and create high quality images at the microscopic level. During this period, equipment and processing costs were prohibitively high.
The financial constraints had a serious impact on the depth and breadth of technology development that could be done. By the 1970s, computing equipment costs had dropped substantially making digital image processing more realistic. Film and software companies invested significant funds into the development and enhancement of image processing, creating a new industry.
There are three major benefits to digital image processing. The consistent high quality of the image, the low cost of processing and the ability to manipulate all aspects of the process are all great benefits. As long as computer processing speed continues to increase while the cost of storage memory continues to drop, the field of image processing will grow.
Written by Carol Francois
