Two low illuminance image enhancement algorithms based on grey level mapping

Two image enhancement contrast methods are proposed in this paper for low-intensity images. The first method (LEAM) is a new greyscale mapping function, and it can be significantly enhanced in the low grey range and compressed slowly in the high grey range, which is beneficial for retaining more image details; the second method (LEAAM) is based on the data characteristics of a histogram combined with the first mapping function, which adaptively sets the gamma value to correct the image. The experimental results show that compared with a traditional mapping function, LEAM is more effective at enriching image details and enhancing visual effects, and LEAAM, compared with a recent low-illumination image enhancement algorithm, achieves good performance for average gradient, information entropy and contrast index; additionally, the overall visual effect is the best compared with other methods.