What to Eat (and Avoid) Before Your Boudoir Session

Foods that help you feel energised and comfortable, plus avoiding bloat or last-minute regrets

When it comes to preparing for your boudoir session, most people think about outfits, hair, and makeup. But there’s one little detail that can make a surprisingly big difference to how you feel in front of the camera: what you eat beforehand. The right foods can leave you feeling energised, confident, and comfortable, while the wrong ones might leave you bloated, sluggish, or regretting that quick greasy snack.

This isn’t about dieting or restricting yourself — boudoir is about celebrating your body exactly as it is. Instead, think of it as fuelling yourself so you feel your best during your session. Here’s a guide on what to eat (and avoid) before stepping into the studio.

What to Eat Before Your Boudoir Shoot

1. Light, Balanced Meals

Choose meals that combine lean protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs. For example:

• Oats with almond butter and berries

• Grilled chicken or tofu with brown rice and veggies

• A smoothie with banana, spinach, and plant-based protein powder

These will give you steady energy without weighing you down.

2. Hydrating Foods

Water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon, celery, and oranges not only keep you hydrated but also help reduce water retention. Pairing these with plenty of plain water will keep your skin looking fresh and glowing.

3. Probiotic-Friendly Choices

Foods like coconut yoghurt, kimchi, or sauerkraut (if you enjoy them) can help support digestion and reduce the chance of feeling bloated. Just stick to amounts your body is already used to — no need to experiment on the day.

4. Gentle Snacks

If you’re feeling nervous, a small snack can help keep your energy steady. Great options include:

• A banana with peanut butter

• A handful of nuts

• Rice cakes with avocado

Foods and Drinks to Avoid Right Before

1. Carbonated Drinks

Fizzy drinks can create bloating — best to skip the soda and sparkling water on the day.

2. Heavy, Greasy Meals

Fast food or anything overly fried can make you feel sluggish and uncomfortable, which isn’t ideal when you want to feel confident and free in your body.

3. Very Salty Foods

High sodium meals (like chips, instant noodles, or takeaways) can cause water retention, leaving you feeling puffier than usual.

4. Excess Sugar

Too much sugar can cause an energy spike and crash. If you’d like a sweet treat, opt for fruit instead of lollies or cakes right before your shoot.

5. Alcohol

It might be tempting to sip a glass of wine to calm the nerves, but alcohol can dehydrate you, make your skin look dull, and sometimes make you feel more anxious. Save the bubbly for a celebratory toast after your session!

Timing Your Food

• Night before: Enjoy a balanced dinner (think lean protein + veggies + complex carbs). Drink water steadily through the evening.

• Morning of your session: Have a light but filling breakfast. Overnight oats, avocado toast, or a smoothie are all great options.

• Right before the session: A small snack (like a piece of fruit or nuts) will help keep your energy levels up without making you feel too full.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the best thing you can do is choose foods that make you feel good and comfortable in your body... added bonus if you avoid that bloated feeling! Every person is different, so stick with what works best for you rather than suddenly trying something new.

A boudoir shoot is all about confidence, celebration, and enjoying the experience. Nourish your body, drink your water, and step into your session knowing you’re ready to shine.

✨ Ready to book your own boudoir experience?
Get in touch to schedule your Christchurch boudoir session and let’s create images that remind you of your strength, beauty, and confidence.