An independent light meter is sure to be on the wish list of a serious photographer. The extent to which you can go to in building a system is nearly unlimited. Picking a Brand Name that You Can Stick with When you choose a particular brand of camera to build a component system around, you must be judicious. Once you start with a brand, you should stick with it. There are many brands of cameras available that will give you professional-quality photos.
Some brands offer more lenses and accessories than others do.
This is important to a person who is building an extensive system. Nikon and Canon. Other manufacturers of 35mm equipment get some professional attention, but there are clearly two, or maybe three, leaders. In medium-format equipment, one name is king, while others are also respected. You don't have to buy into the best-known brands to get good service and quality, but it doesn't hurt.