How to Break Into Film Production Today: Jenerro Wade’s Playbook for New Creatives

Breaking into film production today doesn’t resemble what it was even five years ago. The industry has become more scrappy, more democratic, and more creator-driven—and that’s exactly why now is one of the best times to jump in. Whether you’re dreaming about directing your first short, running sound on an indie set, or building a career that blends writing, acting, and producing, there’s room for you.

As someone who carved his path outside of the traditional Hollywood or filmschool system, Jenerro Wade has built a reputation for resourceful filmmaking and community-driven storytelling. His approach proves you don’t need permission to start—you just need a plan, a vision, and a willingness to learn on your feet.

Here’s Jenerro’s playbook for creatives ready to break into film production today.

1. Start by Making Something Small—Then Make Something Better

The biggest mistake new filmmakers make? Waiting for the “perfect” project. Jenerro’s philosophy is simple:

Your first film isn’t supposed to be perfect. It’s supposed to exist.

Start with:

• A 60-second micro-short on your phone

• A one-scene character moment

• A no-budget sketch with friends

Small projects teach you speed, problem-solving, and the art of finishing—skills that matter more than equipment.

“Progress beats perfection every time," Jenerro says. "Each small film teaches you something the last one didn’t.”

2. Build Your Network Before You Need It

Great crews aren’t assembled overnight. Jenerro encourages creatives to immerse themselves in the local film ecosystem—especially in Texas, where indie communities are tight-knit and incredibly supportive.

Show up to:

• Film meetups

• Workshops

• Festival screenings

• Production assistant calls

You don’t need to “pitch” yourself—just be curious, collaborative, and helpful. Relationships built now will turn into future job calls, creative partnerships, and co-produced projects.

Pro tip: Follow your local film commissions on Instagram—Texas is full of opportunities if you know where to look.

3. Say Yes to Roles Outside Your Comfort Zone

One of Jenerro’s core beliefs: the fastest learners on a set are the ones willing to wear multiple hats.

Try running sound, working grip, assisting the art department, or helping with pre-production documents. Every role teaches you how the whole machine moves—and makes you a more valuable collaborator.

Plus, versatility is gold for indie productions.

4. Make Collaboration Your Superpower

Jenerro’s projects are known for a certain energy—playful sets, creative experimentation, and a willingness to try weird, surprising ideas. That vibe doesn’t come from one person; it comes from a team empowered to bring their perspective.

Ways new filmmakers can practice true collaboration:

• Let go of preciousness.

• Ask for opinions from every department.

• Give credit loudly and often.

• Create a culture where ideas can come from anywhere.

“Your crew isn’t just executing your vision—they’re expanding it,” Jenerro says.

5. Learn the Tools, But Don’t Worship Them

Technology is more accessible now than ever, but Jenerro warns against falling into the gear trap. Expensive equipment doesn’t make a good film—strong storytelling does.

Focus on:

• Script

• Composition

• Lighting basics

• Clean audio

• Clear character stakes and arches

Once you understand the fundamentals, any tool becomes powerful in your hands.

6. Share Your Work—Even When It Feels Scary

You’re not “breaking in” until people can see what you do. Jenerro encourages new filmmakers to release their work early and often:

• Post behind-the-scenes content.

• Share rough cuts with your peers.

• Submit your films to micro-festivals and local showcases.

• Use social media as your ongoing portfolio.

Modern filmmaking rewards those who let their process be visible.

7. Join or Build a Creative Community

Jenerro co-creates from inside a network of filmmakers, actors, writers, and producers who treat art as a team sport. If you don’t have a community yet, build one:

• Start a monthly table read.

• Host screenings in your backyard.

• Collaborate on no-budget experiments.

• Partner with local comedians, musicians, or theater performers.

Texas is rich with talent—reach out and make something together.

8. Most Important: Bet on Yourself

Breaking into film isn’t about waiting for someone to give you a shot. It’s about showing people what you can already do.

Jenerro’s advice to every new creative:

“Don’t chase the gatekeepers. Build your own doors—and invite people in.”

If you can stay curious, stay consistent, and stay connected, the industry will notice.

9. Learn the Business Side of Film—Not Just the Creative

Understanding how films actually get made and sustained matters just as much as the art itself. Jenerro encourages new filmmakers to study how studios, producers, and distributors operate—not to mimic them, but to understand the decisions behind budgets, timelines, and long-term strategy.

If you want more than a one-off project, you need to think beyond a single film and toward building something sustainable. Creativity may get attention, but business knowledge keeps the doors open. As Jenerro often reminds emerging creatives: "this isn’t just about passion—it’s about learning how the industry works."

10. Keep Leveling Up

Every project should push you a step further than the last. Jenerro encourages creatives to treat each set as training—learning industry standards early and applying them even on small projects, so nothing feels foreign when the stakes get higher.

Growth doesn’t happen by accident. If you’re not intentionally challenging yourself, refining your process, and raising the bar each time, you’re not moving forward—you’re standing still. The goal isn’t just to make films, but to make better ones with every opportunity.

Ready to Make Your First Move?

Whether you’re a writer itching to see your dialogue come alive or someone who’s always wanted to be on set but didn’t know where to begin, Jenerro’s playbook is a roadmap: start small, collaborate boldly, learn constantly, and keep creating.

Your next project could be the one that changes everything—and you’re capable of starting today.