1. A system for auto-regulation of settings in a vision system camera acquiring images of scenes containing features of interest comprising: a processor that receives image data from at least a portion of an image sensor having an array of pixels arranged in discrete pixel groups that are each independently adjustable with a respective gain setting, wherein each discrete pixel from each of the pixel groups is organized into each of a plurality of four-pixel matrices defining a Bayer pattern, the matrices being tessellated across the pixel array; and an adjustment process that reads the pixel groups and selects at least one acquired gain image associated with at least one of the pixel groups, the selected gain image including a version of a feature of interest in an imaged scene that allows information to be read therefrom.