A method and apparatus provide automatic stage scene detection. A first image of a scene can be captured using a frame luma for automatic exposure control. A brightness contrast can be calculated between a center region of the first image and areas surrounding the center region of the first image. A brightness value can be ascertained for the entire first image. The first image can be determined to be a stage scene image based on the brightness contrast being greater than a stage scene contrast threshold and the brightness value for the entire first image being less than a stage scene brightness value threshold. The frame luma for the automatic exposure control can be adjusted for correct exposure of the center region of the first image in response to determining the first image is a stage scene.