Focus detection method and focus detection apparatus

A focus detection apparatus for detecting a focus state of an object image in accordance with contrast values of said object image at a plurality of focus detection areas, respectively, said focus detection apparatus comprising:

• a lens drive mechanism for moving a focusing lens group of a photographing lens system within a predetermined range of movement;
• an image-capturing device for capturing a plurality of said object images while moving said focusing lens group stepwise within said predetermined range of movement of said focusing lens group;
• a contrast value determining device for determining a contrast value of each said captured plurality of object images;
• and
• a controller for detecting at least one peak contrast value, which satisfies a predetermined condition for reliability, from said determined contrast values, on each of said plurality of focus detection areas, obtained during movement of said focusing lens group,
• wherein said controller selects a peak contrast value detected in each of a predetermined number of areas of said plurality of focus detection areas one of at a same position of said focusing lens group and in a predetermined positional range of said focusing lens group, in the case where said peak contrast value which satisfies said predetermined condition for reliability is not detected.