: This paper introduces the notion of primary image segmentation which serves as a well defined link between low- and high-level image analysis. A general algorithmic framework based on priority queues is proposed that allows for the integration of a variety of different segmentation algorithms. A seeded region growing approach, along with a number of improved seed selection methods and foveation of critical areas, is chosen to realize this framework. Experimental evaluation shows very good performance of these algorithms on a relatively large number of outdoor photographs without the need to adjust parameters.