The image processing method and apparatus capture image data of a photographing scene in which a subject is photographed with a camera, as well as, capture camera information acquired or input in the camera when the subject is photographed, further optionally obtain related information related to the photographing scene, assume the photographing scene by at least one of the camera information and the related information or by a combination with the digital image data and at least one of these information and subject preset image processing depending on the assumed photographing scene. The image processing method and apparatus are capable of obtaining a high quality image such as a high image quality print by assuming a photographing scene and executing optimal gradation control, restoration processing and image quality improvement depending on the assumed photographing scene.