«Camera Image Quality Benchmarking,» written by Jonathan B. Phillips and Henrik Eliasson and published in 2018, delves into the intricate realm of image quality assessment and benchmarking, focusing specifically on camera systems integrated into mobile devices. The book serves as a vital resource, bridging the gap between subjective and objective evaluations of camera image quality, a task crucial in an era where digital imagery saturates daily life, primarily through smartphones.
The inception of this work draws from the authors’ extensive experience in both industry and academia. Phillips, with a background in subjective image quality evaluation, has played a pivotal role in both the corporate and academic worlds, contributing significantly to the IEEE Camera Phone Image Quality (CPIQ) initiative and various ISO standards. Eliasson, on the other hand, brings an objective and theoretical perspective, having contributed to the development of optical measurement systems and camera engineering at Sony Ericsson/Sony Mobile Communications. Their collaboration, marked by transatlantic meetings and collaborative writing sessions, has culminated in a comprehensive treatise that addresses both still and video imaging.
The book begins by framing the evolution of camera technology, highlighting how mobile phones have supplanted standalone cameras in everyday use. This transition necessitates a robust framework for assessing image quality, a task that is as challenging as it is essential. The authors argue that while subjective perceptions of image quality may vary, standardized metrics and methods can provide a consistent basis for evaluation. They emphasize that image quality benchmarking is not only feasible but essential, particularly in the context of the rapid technological advancements in camera systems.
Key themes include the physiological and psychological aspects of human vision, which underpin subjective image quality assessment. The text outlines how human visual characteristics influence the perceived quality of images, thereby informing the development of objective metrics. Additionally, the book details the setup and operation of image quality testing labs, providing guidelines on selecting appropriate test images and human observers. This practical advice is invaluable for professionals aiming to evaluate camera prototypes or finished products rigorously.
Importantly, the book does not shy away from the complexities and nuances of measuring perceived image quality. It offers theoretical insights alongside practical examples, demonstrating how both traditional and contemporary methodologies can be applied to modern imaging challenges. The inclusion of video image quality benchmarking, informed by the expertise of contributing author Hugh Denman, extends the discussion beyond still images, reflecting the multimedia consumption habits of today’s users.
Overall, «Camera Image Quality Benchmarking» is a profound contribution to the field of imaging science and technology. It combines rigorous academic research with practical industrial experience, offering a balanced perspective on the subjective and objective dimensions of image quality. By detailing the evolution of digital image capture and providing a robust framework for its assessment, Phillips and Eliasson offer readers a foundational text that is both theoretically rich and practically applicable. This book is a must-read for professionals and researchers dedicated to advancing the quality of digital imaging technologies .
