Discovering the True Magic: Emma Booth's Journey to Self-Worth, as One of Canada's Supermodels
In the glitzy world of fashion, where dreams sparkle brighter than sequins under runway lights, there exists a realm where legends are born and icons are made. In the midst of this glamour stands Emma Booth, a name synonymous with grace, resilience, and unparalleled success. Scouted at the tender age of 14, Emma’s life followed a certain path that would forever alter the landscape of Canadian supermodels, propelling her into the stratosphere of fashion royalty.
Emma’s ascent to the upper tier of modeling was no mere stroke of luck. It was a journey paved with determination, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. Imagine juggling schedules across continents, signed with a staggering 12 agencies worldwide, all while navigating adolescence.
From the cobblestone streets of Paris, Emma’s portfolio reads like a who’s who of fashion royalty. With collaborations with Kate Moss, Michel Compte, Yves Saint Laurent, Giorgio Armani, and Victoria’s Secret… just to name a few… Emma emerged as a beacon of Canadian talent on the global stage. But beyond the glossy veneer of magazine covers and haute couture, lies a tale of resilience and authenticity.
It’s not just about striking a pose or wearing the most glamorous outfit; it’s about the grit and tenacity to stay true to oneself amidst the chaos. Emma’s journey is a testament to the power of self-belief and unwavering determination.
Join us as we delve into the depths of Emma’s world, where vulnerability meets strength, and passion ignites purpose. In an exclusive interview, Emma unveils facets of her life and career that have remained shrouded in mystery until now. Brace yourselves for a journey, where the real magic lies in the heart and soul of a true supermodel.
Models of Canada: Can you tell us about your journey as a fashion model, particularly your experience working in Paris for over two decades?
Emma: I was first “discovered “ at 14 years old while playing in my front yard. At 15 my agent Elmer Olsen entered me in the Elite look of the year where I won for Canada and went on to the finals in New York (hosted by Donald Trump!) It was an amazing experience where I met girls from 86 countries. I came second in the international competition. I then spent my summers accompanied by my Mum in New York and Europe. I moved to Paris the day after I graduated high school! My soul belongs in Paris and I straight away felt at home. France seemed to be my best “market” as each model has a country or market that suits her best! I was lucky to have quite a few different areas that I could work in including runway, editorial, catalogs, commercials, advertising, lingerie and bathing suits and hair jobs. I traveled all the time and it was back in the day where money was to be made. Sometimes I would have a catalog job in an exotic country where we worked 3 days but spent 10 (paid) days there! I had agencies in New York, London, Paris, Holland, Germany, Greece, Spain, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, Toronto, Montréal. Always juggling different schedules and which job was best. Amazing now to think I could pick and choose. It was a real business! Managing travel, loneliness and taxes at a young age!
Models of Canada: What motivated you to take a break from the industry, and what inspired you to return?
Emma: I went straight back to modelling after my first daughter was born and was travelling all the time. I decided after our second daughter that I wanted to slow down. We moved to the country outside of Paris and life slowed down. I loved being with my girls. I have always loved painting (I traveled with my watercolour set and would paint while I worked) and I was offered a job teaching Art in English at my daughter’s school. I was then offered a full time position teaching English and Art at a private school and I had to make a decision. So I officially told all my agencies that I wasn’t available anymore. I didn’t even think much about it! Since I have never really identified as a model this transition was fairly easy for me and I loved using my “brain” in a different way and working with children.
I was inspired to return because we had a huge life change when we moved to Canada after 27 years living in France. Being back where it all began I was inspired to give it another shot !
Models of Canada: How has the fashion industry evolved since you first started your career, and what changes do you anticipate upon your return? Please feel free to use fashion market examples (Canada vs Paris).
Emma: It has changed a lot! I started working back in the day where there were no phones/social media etc. We hit the ground running around castings with our little map and hand written schedules! The way you presented yourself at castings was very important and how you interacted and chatted with clients. It could make or break if you got a job. The only in person casting I have done since starting back in Canada we were given a number to hold up and no body spoke to me! I came out feeling utterly shocked! Castings now are mostly filmed by yourself at home. I miss the interaction with agencies and clients. I think in today’s world you have to be very good at social media and selling yourself on Instagram, which I am not very good at!
Photography has also changed immensely. We used to take Polaroids to check lighting and then blindly shoot a few roles of film. We wouldn’t see the end result until the pictures came out. There was also no retouching which made the images magical and raw. I remember missing the “Click” of the camera when digital photography began!
It is honestly a whole new world for me getting back in the game and I have a lot to learn.
Models of Canada: During your time in Paris, you've undoubtedly worked with numerous top-end designers. Can you share some memorable experiences and collaborations?
Emma: My first big job in Paris was a TV hair commercial for L’Oreal with Kate Moss. She was so kind to me and we stayed in touch for awhile. She would gossip to me about her boyfriend- Johnny!
My first big editorial shoot was for Italian Vogue with Michel Compte. I didn’t even realize it was a big deal!
Working with Mr. Yves Saint Laurent on his shows. He was always so polite and respectful. A highlight was walking for him for the finals of the Football world cup in 1998!
I also had a close relationship with Giorgio Armani and did a few campaigns for him and his shows. I spent a week in LA with Peter Lindbergh shooting the campaign at night in Universal studios with fake rain and fog! Giorgio’s sister was the stylist and she took me on a shopping spree as I didn’t know how to dress like a model! Haha!
Working with Ellie Saab and being the bride for his shows. Being invited by him to model the most expensive dress in the world in a private show in London.
Working on campaigns and shows for Emmanuel Ungaro and he and his wife having me for family dinners at their apartment in Paris! They really seemed to appreciate how down to earth I was and were protective of me!
Going to Bali for 2 weeks to shoot the Aubade campaign where we stayed in the most magical hotels.
Being flown from Paris to New York for the Victoria’s Secrets fashion show! Again, I didn’t even realize was a big deal!
Being invited by Leonardo Di Caprio to his movie premier of “Man in the Iron Mask” and to hang out whenever he was in Paris. We had a code name to get into his hotel. He was interested in my friend- not me!
Hanging out with the Beastie Boys and going on stage with them in New York!
So so many amazing experiences and memories!
Models of Canada: What skills or insights did you gain from your years of modeling that you believe benefitted you while working as a full time model? What do you think set you apart from the other models?
Emma: The skills I developed were to be very strong, stay true to myself and not to take rejection personally. I come from a very loving, normal family and have high values and morals. I never just identified as a model and this saved me from ever being too affected by the industry. I always had other passions and loving relationships. Meeting my husband so early on (I was 20 and he is my soul mate!) saved me from partying too much and mixing with the wrong people.
I think what set me apart from other models was being quietly confident and being able to chat well with clients and agencies . I was always prepared and on time for castings and shoots and hardworking! I took my job very seriously. On a physical level I think my freckles (which I hated growing up) and green eyes set me apart! ;)
Models of Canada: Taking a break from modeling can sometimes lead to uncertainty about returning. How do you plan to overcome any doubts that you may face?
Emma: After moving back to Canada from France 2 years ago I decided I may give modelling another shot. We were starting life all over!
My girls are older and I’m itching to work with creative people and travel again! I recently had a shoot with both my girls! Mona is now 18 and slowly getting into the business herself. I couldn’t be prouder of the way she is handling herself. She is very artistic and loves working with creative people. I am there to guide her if needs be but also love taking a back seat and watching on with pride. Mila is only 13 but has the potential to model later if she wants to (watch out world! ;)
When I “left” the industry I was in my 30’s. I did have a 24 year career which is already amazing! Coming back at 47 is a funny feeling and I definitely have my doubts but are trying to approach it with a positive attitude. My agent Peggi LePage (who is such a wonderful, kind human) and Elmer Olsen (who has happily retired but is still my go to for advice and support) are encouraging me to go grey as there is a market for “older” women! I have to admit as the grey comes in I find it quite liberating! I have never had Botox or any other “help “, so sometimes when I see photos of myself I have to take a double look as in my minds eye I’m still in my 20’s. I plan to overcome any doubt that I may have with a lot of quiet confidence and fully embracing getting older.
I have been a little disappointed in my “welcome “ back into the Canadian industry but I don’t blame anyone as I don’t think many of the people I used to work with are around anymore! With age comes wisdom so I know not to take it personally. The few jobs I have done are not at all like the work I was used to but I do have high hopes.
Not identifying as “only” a model definitely helps me accept and appreciate any opportunity that comes my way in the modelling world!
Models of Canada: Are there any specific goals or aspirations you have for your career as you step back into the fashion world?
Emma: I am a big believer in manifestation. When I started modelling at a young age I was already actively manifesting and always knew what I wanted. I can picture myself on an Italian patio having a glass a wine after walking a big show… with my grey hair!
I figure I may as well dream big! So yes ! My goals and aspirations are to be back on the runways and in magazines. To work again with incredibly talented and creative people. I also would like to help other people wanting to get into the industry or speak to families of girls/boys who are interested in the modelling world and help guide them.
Models of Canada: If you could describe your modeling career/adventures in one word, what would it be?
Emma: SELF WORTH
Written by: Models of Canada