What is the best lens for [insert subject]?

There is no such thing as best in lenses. At best there is "best sharpness" or "best controlled background blur." These are, of course, highly desireable qualities, under most circumstances, and may even cause someone to rate a lens "best all around." This means that under the greatest number of circumstances, this will be the best lens. This does not, however, mean that it is the best lens under all circumstances. If you want to bring out the subtle tonal gradiations, in a face or a locomotive, Minolta G lenses will generlly do an excellent job. If you want a punchy shot of a snow-boarder in mid-air, well, G lenses will do a great job, subtle tonal variations and all... but that may not be exactly what you are aiming for. And suddenly we are into the realm of preferences. Preferences are not objective, and as such are hard to argue. Actually, they are very easy to argue, and many people do, vigorously, and to no end, but ultimately, they are just preferences. Anyway, I cringe when I hear "best lens." Best lens for what? The artist in me loves to explore the possibilities.