To easily detect a specified object such as a human body from an object image and to perform AF(automatic focus control), automatic exposure control(AE) and automatic white balance control(AWB), etc., which are matched with the specified object.

After the image signals which are image picked up in a CCD 3 are processed, an evaluation value for identifying the human body part of the object is generated in an evaluation value detection part 9. A multilayer feedforward type neural network 11 identifies the human body part, based on the evaluation value. In the case that the identified result is an error, the human body part is identified, based on the evaluation value by a microprocessor 10. A microprocessor 12 controls the light quantity adjustment part 1, automatic focusing adjustment part 2, and white balance adjustment part 7 of a camera the use of one of teh identified results.