I'd recommend the Tokina 11-16 f/2.8. I've got the Nikon mount, but it's the same lens. Optics are fantastic. Autofocus kinda stinks, but it's a great lens at its price point. Picked it up for $650ish at The Camera Store.
I haven't had good experiences with either Tamron or Sigma, so I'd steer away from those personally. The build on that Tokina is nice.
That being said, if she doesn't have any prime lenses (non-zooms), consider picking her up a 50 or 85mm. The 11-16 is basically a prime anyways, and I rarely pull it out of my bag unless I'm shooting interiors/architecture. I get WAY more bang for my buck out of my primes.
If you go the gift card route, get her one from The Camera Store (assuming you're in Calgary). Great store and great people.
EDIT: Wow, just looked at the camera store's website - $747 for the Tokina. Ouch. Guess the lens has really gone up in popularity the past couple years as I definitely paid under $650 for it.
Last edited by sun; 11-08-2011 at 02:15 AM.
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