Fuji X-T30 + Fuji XF 18mm F2 Sample Images
My wife surprised me with a stroll through one of my favorite art installations in Austin that happens once a year, the Waller Creek Light Show. Anytime she surprises me with something, I always have to ask one very important question: “Should or can I take my camera?” Thankfully this time the answer was yes.
If you have never experienced it, the Waller Creek Creek Show is an annual public art event hosted by Waterloo Greenway that transforms the creek into an immersive light and sound installation. You can learn more about the event and installation teams here:
https://waterloogreenway.org/creek-show/?tab=installations-and-design-teams
I was not fully prepared for a low light photography outing. I left my tripod at home, which is normally my go to for night photography. Still, I decided to challenge myself and rely completely on handheld shooting using my Fujifilm X-T30 paired with the Fuji XF 18mm F2. The results honestly surprised me.
This blog is a real world look at Fuji X-T30 sample images and Fuji XF 18mm F2 sample images captured handheld in low light.
Shooting Handheld in Low Light With the Fuji X-T30 and XF 18mm F2
Looking back at my camera settings after the shoot, I probably could have pushed things a little further. Neither the Fuji X-T30 nor the Fuji XF 18mm F2 offers image stabilization, so I intentionally stayed conservative to avoid motion blur and soft images.
Even with those limitations, this setup performed incredibly well for handheld night photography. The compact size allowed me to stay mobile and capture moments quickly without interrupting the experience. Instead of stopping to set up a tripod, I was able to shoot, adjust, and continue walking through the installations with my wife.
The 18mm focal length proved especially useful along the creek. Space is tight in many sections of the walkway, and there is not always room to step back for a wider composition. The XF 18mm F2 gave me the flexibility to capture entire installations while still allowing for creative framing.
For photographers searching for lightweight travel gear or event setups, this combination really shines. It is small, discreet, and capable of producing decent low light results.
Why the Waller Creek Light Show Is One of Austin’s Most Unique Photography Experiences
The Creek Show has always felt like an event that represents Austin perfectly. It is artistic, slightly unconventional, and incredibly creative. Walking through the installations reminds me of the feeling of touring a beautifully decorated home during the holidays. Every turn offers something new to admire.
The contrast between colorful lighting, the dark Texas night sky, and reflections off the moving creek water creates an incredible environment for photography.
Many of my favorite installations featured vibrant multi colored lighting that created strong contrast and depth. The moving water added another layer of texture that made each scene feel alive.
Featured Installations and Artists
One of my favorite parts of the Waller Creek Light Show is learning about the artists behind each installation. The creativity and craftsmanship behind these pieces is incredible, and I wanted to highlight a few of the installations included in this photo set.
Alluvial
By Plume Design Lab, Clay Odom & Kory Bieg
Fabricated by Andalusia Design
This installation created a flowing visual effect that mirrored the natural movement of water along the creek. The lighting transitions and layered materials made it visually dynamic from every angle.
The Ghost Boat: Through the Looking Glass
By Daniela Valle, Lindsay Abati, and Johanna Spencer
Fabricated by Weston Montgomery
This installation felt incredibly immersive. The reflection elements and lighting created a dreamlike environment that felt almost surreal when viewed through the camera.
Night Watch
By Legge Lewis Legge, Britt Moseley & Level on the Level
While I did not capture a strong photo of this installation, it was still a memorable part of the experience and deserves recognition for its creativity and contribution to the show.
Shadows of Former Self
By Jules Buck Jones
This installation created striking silhouettes and layered shadow effects that changed depending on your position along the walkway. It was especially fun to photograph from multiple angles.
Waller Creek High, A School of Extraordinary Fish
By Polis, Daniel Goodwin & Bruce Wilcoxon
This installation completely stole my attention. You can learn more about it here:
https://wallercreekhigh.com/pages/about
Walking alongside and underneath the suspended fish created a fully immersive experience. The lighting was synchronized to simulate movement, making the installation feel alive.
We actually ended up adopting a few of the fish at the end of the show. We had the opportunity to speak with one of the artists who helped create them, and his enthusiasm and passion were just as inspiring as the artwork itself. Today, those fish are displayed in our home and have become one of our favorite pieces of art.
Real World Performance of the Fuji XF 18mm F2 for Night Photography
The Fuji XF 18mm F2 continues to be one of my favorite compact wide angle lenses. It is small enough to carry anywhere while still delivering strong image quality.
Pairing it with the Fuji X-T30 creates a setup that is perfect for travel, street photography, and spontaneous creative outings like this one. While this lens may not be the fastest option available, it balances portability and performance extremely well.
For photographers researching Fuji XF 18mm F2 sample images or Fuji X-T30 low light performance, I hope these images provide helpful real world examples.
Why I Love Minimal Gear Setups
I am always searching for ways to travel lighter while still maintaining image quality. This outing reinforced how capable small camera setups can be. Not every situation requires a full professional kit, and sometimes minimal gear allows you to stay more present and creative.
For capturing memories and documenting experiences, this handheld setup felt perfect.
A Tradition That Means a Lot to Us
I am incredibly grateful we were able to attend this year. The Creek Show did not run in 2025, and from what I have seen online it appears the event may be relocating in the future. Wherever it ends up, I am confident it will continue to inspire artists and photographers alike.
Attending the Waller Creek Light Show has become a special tradition for us, and I truly hope it continues for decades to come.
Thinking About Shooting Low Light With the Fuji X-T30?
If you are considering the Fuji X-T30 or the Fuji XF 18mm F2 for travel, street, or event photography, this setup is absolutely capable of producing beautiful results, even handheld in challenging lighting.
If you have used this setup or attended the Waller Creek Light Show, I would love to hear about your experience!
Philip Adcock 
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