I am expecting my first child 10/20/12, and I recently purchased my first dslr, an EOS Rebel t4i. The only lens I currently own is the lens that came with the camera, the 15-55mm. I am looking for help with what lens to choose next. Most of the pictures I am looking to take for the next 6-12 months are still portraits of the baby and the family, however I would also like a lens that can grow with the child.

I have done some research and I think that the reviews on The-Digital-Picture.com site are great, the only problem I have is that there are so many choices ranging from a couple hundred dollars to a couple thousand.

What lens do you all recommend? Do I need to purchase a couple lens? Is it worth my investment to buy a premium L series lens?

Sorry for all the questions

Thank you for your help,
Bruce