Customer
A custom red-eye removal solution, which automatically recognizes faces in a photograph, detects pupils, and applies corrections.
Softeq implemented a desktop app that enables fast analogue photo processing and more convenient image management in line with the latest UX trends. The software performs on-the-go algorithm-based red eye reduction and does automatic/manual image enhancement along with color restoration.
- BUSINESS NAME Epson America, Inc.
- LOCATION USA and Japan
- BUSINESS ACTIVITY Manufacturer of computer printers, information and imaging related equipment
Solution
Desktop App
The team created a desktop app that automatically installs on a PC once the scanner is connected to the computer. With the app, users can scan multiple photos (up to 30 items per batch) and upload them to a designated hard drive, cloud storage service (Google, Dropbox), or social media network (Facebook).
Key Features
Softeq implemented a set of features to enable fast analog photo processing and more convenient image management in line with the latest UX trends.
- Automatically installs the device driver, FastFoto, and other designated Epson software
- Scans photos (by batches up to 30 items per load), uploads them to custom-named folders, and assigns a unique name to each file
- Allows for automatic (upon scanning) and manual image enhancement, color restoration, and red-eye effect reduction
Red-eye Effect Reduction Tool
The resulting solution displays 70% accuracy for 300 dpi photo scans, regardless of the photo orientation, head position, and subject’s eye shape.
To implement the required image processing functionality, the team developed three algorithms supporting:
- Photo enhancement
- Color restoration
- Red-eye effect reduction
There are no other automatic red-eye reduction image retouching algorithms on the market with the same functionality as FastFoto. Implementing this was the most challenging task in the project, involving two main subtasks: detecting and isolating red pupils in photos, and creating an accurate mask to match the affected area in order to autofill it with an appropriate color.
How the red-eye effect removal tool works
Results
System Enhancements
Satisfied with the end result, Epson released the device with our accompanying software to the market.
Compared to scanning photos on a flatbed scanner, which can take a significant amount of time, or sending photos out to a costly scanning service, the complete scanning system offers a fast, easy, and affordable solution for preserving and sharing a family’s legacy.
