[Brightcolours]

There are two main 28-105mm versions. The f3.5-4.5 version(s) are the ones to consider, the slower one is a very shitty lens. Don't expect very sharp results with the better version, but it renders quite nicely and has quite good colour/contrast.

 

But your friend is all over the place with just buying stuff. A 5D mk III with lenses will always be on the heavy side. Maybe just look at a 80D + 18-135mm IS STM/nano USM combination.