The long-reigning beauty queens of Australia’s vlogging scene are undisputedly Lauren Curtis and Chloe Morello. But fast rising the ranks is Heidi Hamoud - a Melbourne-based former professional make-up artist. Since joining YouTube in 2014, Hamoud has accrued 337,130 subscribers, as well as 378,000 Instagram followers.
Hamoud’s down-to-earth demeanor and simple make-up tutorials have awarded her fast success in the vlogging domain - so fast she is now turning to her individual brand full-time. BD recently spoke to the beauty world’s latest make-up maverick about her tips for social media success and just how to stay authentic while online.
Why did you first get into vlogging?
I’ve always had a passion for make-up artistry and creating make-up looks on my clients and social media followers. After constantly getting requests for detailed tutorials, it seemed only natural that I should start vlogging and be able to chat about what products I love to use.
Which vloggers do you admire and why?
I’m a big fan of Jaclyn Hill, Manny Mua, Patrick Star, Glam and Gore and Desi Perkins because each one of them is unique and different, they're creative and aren't afraid to be bold! I love watching people who have an eye for creativity!
What about your channel do you think has proven so popular?
I like to stay authentic and down to earth. I would never promote a product I didn’t genuinely love, and I always make sure my viewers are getting a glimpse of the real me – flaws and all!
What is the recipe for a successful YouTube video?
Be original and 100 per cent yourself. Create it as though you are the viewer. Keep it simple. Basic step-by-step tutorials and clear, concise filming is the key. Funky music and links to relevant websites and products also help.
What subjects seem to be most popular on your channel?
Make-up and hair tutorials, especially those inspired by celebrities.
What has been a career highlight so far?
Being selected as a MECCA Beauty Junkie. And more recently, being chosen to sit on a panel of judges to select L’Oréal’s next Makeup Director. Not to mention also meeting one of my idols - Rae Morris.
How important is it for you to be honest with your audience?
So important - in fact, this is my priority. If I’m going to influence others, I want to make sure whatever I speak about or promote is authentic and aligns with my values so I don’t deter people from their own.
What are the biggest lessons you learnt in your first year vlogging?
It’s going to take a long time to get used to talking in front of a camera without feeling silly!
What kind of career goals do you hope to achieve through your vlog?
I hope to continue to inspire and encourage others to be as positive, creative and ambitious as possible.
What’s planned for 2016 for your channel?
Lots of fun tutorials, product hauls and plenty of cool competitions.
How important are your other social media outlets in terms of staying connected to your audience?
Instagram is particularly important. I like to interact with my followers by using the comments where possible. It’s also an interesting way to see what kind of content my audience would like to view on my [social] channels.
What do you believe is key to being popular on these other social media platforms?
Be you! Stick to your own personal aesthetic. Be creative. Don’t become disenchanted or conform to the masses. Only promote things you genuinely love and stay individual. Don’t overdo it with posts, but be consistent. And most of all, do things with love and passion!
