Aspects of the present invention are related to methods and systems for image processing, in particular, to methods and systems for computationally efficient and robust image alignment. Initially, larger image features may be used to approximate an alignment measurement. Results of the initial measurement may be used to narrow the search range used in conjunction with higher-resolution images in subsequent alignment measurements. The narrowed search range may insure that if the alignment measurement using the fine-detail images fails, then the measured results may have the accuracy as indicated by the prior, reduced-image-based measurement.