All around lens for Digital Rebel

[acarey]

My mom is an amateur user (mostly pics of the grand kids) and I'd like to get her a lens with a little more range than the 18-55 that came with the kit. I was thinking of an 18-200 lens. From what I've read, it seems that the pictures aren't as nice at the far ends of the ranges, but I still think that the convenience of having only one lens in her case outweighs that disadvantage. She's not publishing these or anything, so if she can just get a nice 4x6 print, she'll be more than happy. I've tried to determine if I should go with a Sigma or a Tamron and I've read reviews that hate one or the other (or hate 18-200s all together). Any advice out there for the casual picture taker?

Many thanks in advance!!

Amy

[DJ-S1]

For a walkaround portrait type lens it's hard to beat the Tamron 28-75 f/2.8. Unless she really needs the reach, that is. 75mm on a DReb is 120mm equivalent which is decent zoom.

[DanielB]

My mom is an amateur user (mostly pics of the grand kids) and I'd like to get her a lens with a little more range than the 18-55 that came with the kit. I was thinking of an 18-200 lens. From what I've read, it seems that the pictures aren't as nice at the far ends of the ranges, but I still think that the convenience of having only one lens in her case outweighs that disadvantage. She's not publishing these or anything, so if she can just get a nice 4x6 print, she'll be more than happy. I've tried to determine if I should go with a Sigma or a Tamron and I've read reviews that hate one or the other (or hate 18-200s all together). Any advice out there for the casual picture taker?

Many thanks in advance!!

Amy
my most used lense is my 28-105. and on the Drebel its quite a nice little zoom. very sturdy, not cheapy build. and the USM is quiet as a mouse. awesome for portraits.