Method and apparatus for compensating for color imbalance in image data

Abstract

A method of correcting color imbalance in a captured image includes deriving gradient data from a group of pixels in the captured image, determining a compensation value based on the gradient data, and applying that value to at least one pixel. Apparatus for correcting color imbalance includes a digital image processor that corrects color imbalance, in an image that is output by an image detector, according to the method. Each pixel may represent a color from a set of colors, with one particular color being a selected color, and each pixel to which the compensation value is applied representing the selected color. Where the group of pixels forms a rectangular shape, the gradient data may include horizontal and vertical gradients. The classifying may be performed according to a visual characteristic of a portion of the image, where determining the compensation value is based also on the visual characteristic.