"Tools definitely changed, especially with the digital age. But to me, it's just basic tools. Things do get advanced, they get more complex. I would stay with film, because I know it, I understand it."

Kim Weston first used a Rolleiflex twin lens reflex camera to take photos, later transitioned to a 4-by-5 Linhof, then an 8-by-10 Calumet, followed by an 8-by-10 Arca Swiss. Now he uses a Mamiya 67 inherited from his father.

Digital doesn't necessarily change the vision, he continues.

"I always use the camera as a way to express my feelings. I photograph much differently than a lot of people. My photographs tell stories, and I don't care (about others') views of my works."

In China when Kim Weston was being filmed by a TV news crew, he reached for his camera when a model arrived on the spot.

Contact the writer at junechang@chinadailyusa.com