What about her? ; )
As far as lens quality, I've finally started to step up to the higher quality lens. What is really gratifying is seeing some of the sharpness results using lower f-stops allowing for greater composition freedom. You get to shoot stuff you didn't think of before.
i've been hunting down craigslist looking for 2.8 Nikon stuff. I've found some pretty nice lens that way.
If you are looking for a place to start, consider the 35/50mm 1.4 or cheaper 1.8 prime lens. You, in effect, become the zoom but the sharpness is really fun to chase.
Have fun!
ken
below images all shot with my 1.4 50mm Nikon with a FujiS3 pro