A method includes obtaining multiple image frames. The method also includes selecting, using at least one processing device of an electronic device, an asymmetrical image pair from the multiple image frames. The asymmetrical image pair includes a first image frame and a second image frame, where the first image frame has a shorter exposure than the second image frame. The method further includes identifying, using the at least one processing device, one or more features based on the asymmetrical image pair. The method also includes determining, using the at least one processing device, whether the first image frame contains flicker based on the one or more features. In addition, the method includes enabling or disabling, using the at least one processing device, the first image frame as a reference candidate based on the determination whether the first image frame contains flicker.