PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image reader capable of providing a fine processed image by stably and suitably extracting an area (notice area) for extracting a feature vector to be used for image processing such as gradation conversion. SOLUTION: A contour line acquisition means 113 in an area extraction means 112 extracts a 2nd area (through area) and extracts a boundary with an area other than the 2nd area from the 2nd area as the contour line of a subject. An analytical means 114 analyzes the curvature or the like of the contour line extracted by the means 113. A 1st area (notice area) is extracted on the basis of the analytical result.
