By working hard and getting your name credited on a really solid film that is played at a film festival can do wonders. It is a way to get some recognition, awards, contacts, and it is nice seeing your name on the big screen. Someone may have to know who did the cinematography, or the location scout, composer, writer, hair dresser ect. Someone will reach out to you if they like what they see. Keep moving forward. You may have to do 5 films that tank to land a nice amateur short film. It is all worth it though.