The image taking apparatus of the invention includes a light quantity
control device that is arranged on the optical axis of subject light and
controls transmitted volume of the subject light. The light quantity
control device includes a light quantity control layer and a pair of
light-transmissive electrodes. The light quantity control layer expands
and contracts in accordance with an electric field generated therein and
thereby changes the transmitted volume of the subject light. The
electrodes are disposed so as to sandwich the light quantity control
layer and generate an electric field in the light quantity control layer,
in response to application of voltage, thereby causing the light quantity
control layer to expand and contract.