1. A method of processing a digital image using face detection to achieve one or more desired image processing parameters, comprising using a processor within an image acquisition and processing apparatus to perform an image processing method including: generating in-camera, capturing or otherwise obtaining in-camera a collection of low resolution images including a face; tracking said face within said collection of low resolution images; loading one or more default image attributes that correspond to one or more of desired color balance, exposure, or contrast values for a group of pixels that include the face based on the tracking; capturing a main digital image with said apparatus that further comprises an imaging optical system; identifying a group of pixels that correspond to said face image within the main digital image; determining one or more of actual color balance, exposure, or contrast values for the group of pixels that correspond to the face within the main digital image; comparing the default image attributes for the group of pixels with the actual values for the group of pixels within the main digital image; and providing digital enhancement of the main digital image by adjusting one or more of color balance, exposure, or contrast for the face image based on the comparing, including adjusting color or luminance, or both, of one or more selected pixels of the group of pixels.