System and method for generating a depth map and fusing images from a camera array

Abstract

A method, apparatus, system, and computer program product for of digital imaging. Multiple cameras comprising lenses and digital images sensors are used to capture multiple images of the same subject, and process the multiple images using difference information (e.g., an image disparity map, an image depth map, etc.). The processing commences by receiving a plurality of image pixels from at least one first image sensor, wherein the first image sensor captures a first image of a first color, receives a stereo image of the first color, and also receives other images of other colors. Having the stereo imagery, then constructing a disparity map and an associated depth map by searching for pixel correspondences between the first image and the stereo image. Using the constructed disparity map, captured images are converted into converted images, which are then combined with the first image, resulting in a fused multi-channel color image.