An apparatus and methods for recognizing an image with an increased image recognition rate are provided. The apparatus includes a plurality of illuminators for illuminating a surface. The apparatus also includes an image sensor for outputting an image frame obtained by converting an optical image of the surface into an electrical signal. The surface is illuminated one of the plurality of illuminators. The apparatus further includes a switch for selecting any of the plurality of illuminators for illuminating the surface. The apparatus additionally includes a controller for receiving the image frame from the image sensor, determining whether the image frame has a region of reflected light, and controlling the switch to select another of the plurality of illuminators to illuminate the surface when the image frame has the region of reflected light.