Buy.com is offering the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II Lens for $189.99 including filter and cleaning kit. This zoom features Canon's 4-stop compensation Image Stabilizer in a compact, lightweight package. Standard asking price is $299, so this is quite a deal.

Other features include f/4-5.6 maximum aperture, 7 diaphragm blades, one UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) lens element, and optimized Super Spectra lens coatings.

Terrific customer reviews too. It's a good choice for outdoor sports action and nature photography.

The Gift Guide for Photographers features 12 tempting goodies for the photographer in your life. Each item includes a background article about it and a direct link for the best price.