Ty Stone

I am aspiring DP and want to train my eyes better. I'm looking into a light meter, and i know people know a days say they aren't need but I don't think is true. I would like to have one that want kill my pockets but also not so cheap that it will fall apart in my hands. Next part of the topic is, when studying movies or when I'm outdoors what are a few things I should take and notice. Ex: how lights hits the trees or pavement etc. Thank You