A solid-state imaging apparatus including: an imaging section having pixels arranged into a matrix； a conversion section for digitizing pixel signals； a block memory section formed of a first line memory corresponding to at least N lines (N being an integral number of 2 or more) for retaining the pixel signals； and a drive control section for controlling so as to read out and cause to be retained at the block memory section pixel signals corresponding to M lines (M being an integral number between 2 and N inclusive) in a period shorter than period necessary for an external circuit to process pixel signals corresponding to 1 line, and then controlling so as to bring into halt condition at least one of imaging section and conversion section in a remaining period in the period necessary for external circuit to process pixel signals corresponding to M lines.
