This was my first and for a while my only lense and I love it, some people complain that its slow and it only goes to 4.5 but as a start off lens till you figure out all the differnet settings etc., I found it great. Maybe I will feel differently when I get more equipment :-/
Am sure someday (when I win the lottery!!) I will purchase a brighter and more shiny version but for now its great. Not the best lens for landscape though.
Hope that helps.