It is not a misconception that the film and tv industry is a mostly male dominated work place. Each department has their exceptions however the camera department is usually the most male dominated area of them all.
That being said when I see a female DP, camera operator or a female AC I get super excited and happy. I have so much respect for them because I know how hard it must have been for them to get where they are and to be taken seriously.
I am proud to say that on the show I am currently working on we have not one, but two amazing female camera operators and one amazing female AC. To me this is a huge achievement because the cameras that we are using weigh about as much as a small child.
I can tell you from exprience that carrying those things on your shoulder is not an easy task and it can get extremely tiring. These three amazing women are working 10 hour shifts running up and down stairs in this oddly designed house we are shooting in and they are all holding their own compared to the other male operators and ac’s.
So to all of the women out there, do not let this male dominated industry scare you. These three women are proof that you can hold your own with the boys club. Do not get discouraged and give up.  They worked hard and are now out there shooting, so why can’t you?
Rachel:
I’ve seen a fair number of women in camera over the past few years — DPs, operators, and assistants — along with significant female representation in props, set dressing, sound, production, and post. On the vast majority of shows I’ve worked during the past thirty years, women dominated the hair, makeup, and wardrobe departments. Including production and post, I’d say most of my recent shows had a 60% to 40% balance of men to women on the crew.
This may not be full parity, but it’s a lot closer than it used to be — and that’s progress.
Grip and electric remain the last bastions of what was once an all-male film industry, but women have made gains there as well. I’ve worked with — and for — many good female juicers, best boys, and a lesser number of gaffers. Check out “Totally Unauthorized” and “The Hills are Burning,” two excellent Industry blogs written by female set lighting techs.
You have a good blog here. Hope you’re working and having fun…