Adaptive histogram equalization with visual perception consistency

Abstract

Histogram equalization (HE) is a well-established method for image contrast enhancement due to its simplicity and effectiveness. However, it suffers from three main shortcomings, i.e., over-enhancement, under-enhancement and mean shift. To address these issues, this paper proposes a systematic scheme, that is, adaptive histogram equalization with visual perception consistency (AHEVPC). Firstly, a novel histogram correction model is designed to get the optimal controlling parameters, which specifically address the aforementioned issues of HE. Besides, considering the subjective perception of the initial output of the model, two strategies are proposed to make the enhanced image more natural and comfortable. Finally, histogram equalization is applied to the modified histogram. Extensive experimental results demonstrate that the proposed scheme is reasonable and effective, and outperforms several state-of-the-art methods in terms of subjective and objective metrics.