Abstract: An apparatus for acquiring an image comprises a display (60), such as an LCD and backlight, for illuminating the object. A photosensor array (61) detects light reflected from the object. A controller (62) causes the display (60) and the photosensor array (61) to: illuminate the object (100); acquire (102) a first image (104) of the object; display a first illuminating pattern (106) for illuminating the object, which first illuminating pattern is derived (108) from the first image; and acquire (102) a second image (110) of the object illuminated by the first illuminating pattern (106). The controller (62) preferably causes the display (60) and the photosensor array (61) to: display a second illuminating pattern (112) for illuminating the object, which second illuminating pattern is derived (108) from at least the second image; and acquire a third image (114) of the object illuminated by the second illuminating pattern (112).