Method and apparatus for taking pictures

Detection information is obtained from captured-image information of an imaging element array. An area is provided in an image capturing region in the imaging element array. In response to the obtained detection information, a pattern is generated which defines a ratio of a number of photosensor pixels used to capture an image to a number of all photosensor pixels in the area. The imaging element array is driven in accordance with the generated pattern. Interpolation responsive to a first picture signal generated by the used photosensor pixels in the area is implemented to generate a second picture signal corresponding to unused ones among all the photosensor pixels in the area. The first picture signal and the second picture signal are combined into a captured-image signal. The captured-image signal is outputted at a prescribed frame rate.