The term "cameraman" does not necessarily imply that a male is performing the task.
A second assistant cameraman (2nd AC), also known as a clapper loader, might be employed to load film, slate scenes, or maintain the camera report (a log of scenes, takes, rolls, photographic filters used, and other production data).
As of 2016, there were approximately 59,300 television, video, and motion picture camera operators employed in the United States.
The principles of dramatic storytelling and film editing fundamentals are also important skills.
The camera operator is required to communicate clearly and concisely on sets where time and film budget constraints are ever present.