1. An image based autofocus method comprising the steps of: receiving image data and placing said data into a matrix representing a content of said image data; monitoring and analyzing the contrast between different portions of said image data; adjusting a focus mechanism that is focusing on said image data; observing an image quality of said image data that has been focused; and continuously outputting an image to support an image processing frame rate and adjusting said focus mechanism to obtain an improved focus image by adjusting said focus mechanism in a positive direction, a negative direction or a zero (0) direction based upon effectuating a desired change in said observed image quality of said image data.