Nightmare FUEL

Nightmare FUEL is a Dundee portrait specialist that does one thing very clearly: transform portrait photography into a creative, cinematic experience. Founded by Drew Cunningham from a lifelong obsession with the macabre, the studio has evolved since May 2010 into a focused portrait studio where horror aesthetics meet professional portrait craft. If you want a portrait with bold character, cinematic lighting or an unsettling edge, Drew and the team are uniquely placed to deliver. Why choose Nightmare FUEL? Because portrait is our core. We approach each session as a chance to tell a story — whether you’re commissioning a high-impact character portrait, a styled horror image or a strong professional portrait with personality. Our work blends technical studio lighting, considered composition and theatrical styling so that every shot reads like a frame from a film. We aren’t a generic headshot factory; we’re portrait specialists who love the obscure, the surreal and the challenging, and we apply that appetite for creative risk to produce portraits people remember. What makes our approach special is the practical SFX and character expertise we bring in-house. Working closely with Sophie, our SFX make-up artist, we can integrate prosthetics, special effects painting and theatrical make-up to create authentic characters and dramatic visuals. That collaboration means clients can book a portrait shoot that’s truly transformative — from subtle character work to full-on gorey creations — while still benefiting from professional photography craft and studio control. How we work with clients: we start with a creative conversation. Tell us your idea or your nightmare — even the obscure concepts excite us. For clients who need a defined professional portrait, we tailor the session to your brief and desired use, whether that’s editorial, portfolio, social or business portraiture. For character or horror shoots we develop concept, costume and SFX plans together, then deliver a relaxed but focused studio environment where safety and fun go hand-in-hand. Sessions are professional, collaborative and always photographed with an eye for mood and detail. Based in Dundee and serving clients across GB, Nightmare FUEL combines specialist portrait expertise with a passion for the bizarre. If you want a portrait that stands out — whether a striking business portrait or a dark, character-driven image — get in touch and let us bring your grimmest ideas to life.