I'm definitely a layman, but I can speak for the quality of the gear and the photos. I bought this lens based on the reviews and just couldn't be happier with it. I like using it very much and after many comparisons with other comparable lenses I am glad that I chose this one. It's very well made, cheaper than others in its class, and the zoom option makes it an extreme fisheye or just a wide-angle lens. I love it. It is not easy. The only thing I could see as a disadvantage is that the lens is overly sensitive to light. I actually like this feature for the artistic things that can be done with the lighting, but being a beginner this lens allows me to make adjustments to the lighting that my others don't need. The lens cap is ugly but works well. Overall well built with great results.
Black Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM Lens - Model 1380C002
78 Review
Canon EOS SLR Camera Lens EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM
124 Review
π· Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G Lens with Auto Focus: Perfect for Nikon DSLR Cameras
76 Review
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Fixed Lens - Discontinued by Manufacturer
93 Review