I do have a Canon 400D camera with a 18-55 lens. I am pretty happy with my pictures. They say a kit lens not realy have a good quality. I have a "proper"  28-80 lens too, honestly I don't see different on my picture. Both lens delivers excelent photos. I am not a great photographer perhaps in technical term is some different but I can not say nothing about that. 

Rick touched a very good point about handle a camera. I am using tripod most of the time but when I am handheld a camera I  wish it would have a bit more grip on a body. (or wish I would have a smaller hand...lol) Some photographer using a battery pack what gives them a good grip. 

seeya  Tunde