My name is Richard Wong. I’ve been photographing weddings, portraits, and events for nearly 20 years. I was born in Hong Kong and am now based in Auckland, New Zealand. Whenever I have spare time, I enjoy walking the streets with my camera, capturing the stories unfolding around me.
For many people, specifications and numbers determine which lens they choose. But for me, selecting a lens has never been just about the specs. Over the years, I’ve realized the specs only tell you part of the story.
Every lens carries its own point of view. It determines what you include in the frame, what you leave out, and how a moment is remembered. In many ways, it defines your relationship with photography itself.
When I first started, I was often told to upgrade from entry-level lenses as quickly as possible. If I wanted to create meaningful work, I needed better glass. Something more serious, more professional. At the time, I believed that. But both technology and my photography have changed dramatically since then.
Today, many entry-level lenses are remarkably capable. More importantly, I’ve learned that creativity doesn’t come from expensive equipment. It comes from your heart, your eyes, and your curiosity to explore the world.
I’ve been using the FUJINON XC13-33mmF3.5-6.3 OIS Lens(XC13-33mm) for some time now, and the more I work with it, the more I appreciate what it offers. Not just in performance, but in freedom.
Mounted on a compact body like the FUJIFILM X-T30 III, the setup is lightweight and discreet. When I’m shooting on the street, people may notice me, but they rarely pay attention. That subtle presence allows me to capture the candid moments I’m looking for.
On paper, XC13–33mm might seem like a modest range. But it covers almost all the focal lengths I use daily, especially for street photography — roughly 28mm, 35mm, and 50mm equivalents.
What I appreciate most is the 13mm wide end. It may not sound dramatically wider than a typical 16mm or 18mm standard zoom. Yet at wide angles, every millimeter changes how the world feels. 13mm is noticeably wider, and that difference matters.
My photography usually revolves around light and shadow, lines and patterns. At 13mm, I can capture a broader view in tight spaces, and the added perspective distortion helps create a stronger visual impact and a more immersive feeling that many standard lenses simply cannot achieve.
Despite its compact size, Fujifilm has incorporated four-stop optical image stabilization into the XC13–33mm. This provides additional creative flexibility, especially when using smaller bodies that don’t have in-body image stabilization (IBIS).
Shutter speed is one of the most powerful storytelling tools in photography. I enjoy working with slower shutter speeds to capture motion. To express the energy and rhythm of a place. Having that capability in a compact zoom lens is a significant advantage in a camera I can carry with me every day.
Travel has always been an important part of my life. I love discovering new places and revisiting familiar ones. Wherever I go, a camera is always with me.
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in life is that more doesn’t always mean better. Very often, less truly is more. In many ways, “good enough” has become one of the most important words in my life and in my photography.
There was a time when I felt the need to bring everything whenever I travelled. I was afraid that if I left something behind, I might miss an opportunity or fail to capture the best possible image.
But then I realized that carrying more equipment didn’t improve my images. Instead, I found myself constantly thinking about which lens to use, rather than paying attention to the world unfolding in front of me. A heavy bag also drained my energy and limited how far I was willing to explore.
Now, I choose simplicity.
With the XC13–33mm, I have a small, uncomplicated setup, and it’s good enough.
It has helped me grow as a photographer. Rather than chasing better equipment or becoming distracted by gear, a simpler setup pushes me to refine my craft. I think more about light, timing, and emotion. I become more aware of my surroundings. The people, the atmosphere, the subtle details.
Most importantly, with a smaller camera bag, I have more time and energy to enjoy the journey itself. That also allows me to capture the small, meaningful moments that stay with us long after we return home.
