To help make things right, Penang-based photographer Muhamed Helmy Samsudeen built One Click Hub, a mobile app that allows creative professionals to showcase their portfolios, promote their services and connect directly with customers.
“The main struggle is visibility. Connecting well with customers depends on how we approach and present ourselves. But first, we need to be known,” Helmy told FMT Lifestyle.
This is especially true for those new to the industry without strong portfolios to open doors. It was a reality Helmy himself faced in his early days as a photographer.
“I’m very grateful to my first few customers who trusted me to take their pictures,” he recalled.
While the app is slated for its official launch on April 27, it has already gained traction, with 108 service providers already signed up since its soft launch in August 2024.
These, Helmy shared, include photographers, videographers, hair stylists, deejays, emcees, henna and make-up artists, among others.
“The app is currently available for download on Android devices, including through Huawei’s AppGallery. We are awaiting approval for it to be listed on Apple’s App Store,” said Helmy, 31.
For now, the platform focuses on Penang-based creatives, although Helmy hopes to expand its reach across Malaysia in time. The public can browse and connect with them from anywhere.
Rather than handling payments, One Click Hub acts as a bridge between service providers and customers. However, documents such as invoices and receipts must be uploaded to the app to keep transactions transparent and organised.
Currently, the platform is free for entrepreneurs to use, with plans to introduce a RM19 monthly subscription for creative professionals in the future. Even so, Helmy hopes to secure government support to keep it free. The app will remain free for members of the public.
Helmy’s interest in photography was sparked in primary school, when his father gave him a Handycam. Before long, he was capturing glimpses of everyday life – from Hari Raya gatherings to family holidays.
Over time, that interest deepened. In secondary school, he joined a photography club, and later, in university, he started one himself.
In August 2019, he founded Helmy Sam Photography, offering photography and videography services for weddings, engagements, convocations and other events.
“I feel it’s a blessing to be there with them and capture their special moments,” he shared.
As his career progressed, Helmy noticed recurring challenges among freelancers. Many relied on Facebook groups to find work, where a single job post could draw overwhelming responses – often leading to underpricing and wasted effort.
This planted the seed for One Click Hub. The idea was further shaped in early 2024 through conversations with former Penang executive councillor Abdul Halim Hussain, whom Helmy considers a mentor.
Immediately after that conversation, Helmy recalled, he began working on the concept for the app, starting with notes on paper before working with a small team to develop a prototype.
Today, the app is not the only thing that keeps him busy. He is also building a presence in the local film industry, serving as a creative producer, second director and official photographer of an upcoming film titled “Mamu The Movie”.
Slated for release at the end of the year, the heartwarming film tells the story of a father’s sacrifices for his family.
Despite juggling multiple roles, Helmy remains clear about what he envisions for One Click Hub. “I hope that people will turn to this app when they need creative services, especially for government events.”
More importantly, his vision goes beyond himself. “It’s not about individual success – I want everyone to move forward together,” he concluded.
Learn more about Helmy Sam Photography on Instagram.