Ok…I know this one is a bit expensive for a starter lens, but I recommend it here simply for one reason: It’s versatility is unmatched. It covers all the same ground as the 18-55mm and almost as much as the 75-300mm all in one lens. It is also image stabilized, well constructed, light and compact.

If I am taking a long trip, and I could only bring one lens with me, this is it. While it clearly suffers in low light, in my book it is probably the best all round, general purpose lens available.

Tamron has regular rebate offers that usually will bring it down into the $500 range. With a 6 year warranty, wow, hard to beat that value.

While it wont work on a full frame camera, paired with the high speed shooting of the 7D, it is force to be reckoned with.