I do think that both images correctly capture the illumination level with lights on and off
I do not want I be flippant or disrespectful but could could it be an eye focus issue?

both my parents have had eye issues. My mother had issues with clarity/ brightness associated the cataracts. If you’ve looked into this and are 100% I apologize, just putting it out there as a possibility.

hope you’re able to correct it to suit your needs