To use an object information acquiring apparatus that has: a plurality of detection elements (300) that detect acoustic waves generated from an object irradiated with light from a light source (100) and output electric signals a supporting member (400) that supports the plurality of detection elements so that the axes of directivity of at least part of the detection elements gather an inputting unit (700) that receives an input of a measurement condition from a user a selecting unit (500) that selects at least part of the plurality of detection elements in response to the measurement condition input by the user and a processing unit (600) that acquires property information on the inside of the object, using electric signals output from the selected detection elements.
