Originally posted by ivoire I have the Pentax bersion of this lens, which is just the Tamron lens (mentioned above) rebadged. Other than the external appearance of the lens, they are the same. The optics are identical. I started out with this as my "one lens" solution when I purchasd my K20D and I am very pleased with it. Even though I have since added a few other more specialized lenses, I still throw the Pentax DA 18-250 on when I am doing something similar to what you mentioned: going to the zoo with the kids, going hiking with the kids, going to the city with the kids. You get the idea.
I don't have to change lenses and have the focal length for most any shot.
I must say also, for the focal length this covers, I have been *very* happy with it's performance. This lens commonly gives me sharp pictures with pleasing colors. (Subjective, I know.)
EDIT: Also, for its focal range, when retracted, it is nicely compact.