In an image enhancement method, a regular enhancement function and an
aggressiveness parameter are computed using characteristics of a digital
image. A first, relatively slow enhancement algorithm is applied to the
digital image using the regular enhancement function, when an
aggressiveness parameter is in a predetermined high range. A second,
relatively fast enhancement algorithm is applied to the digital image
using the regular enhancement function, when an aggressiveness parameter
is in a predetermined low range. A modified enhancement function is
calculated using characteristics of the digital image and is used with a
second, relatively fast enhancement algorithm, when the aggressiveness
parameter is in a predetermined medium range.