Russian photographer Katerina Plotnikova has thrown the age-old saying "never work with animals" to the wind.

Her intrepid animal-based surrealist photography will leave you in awe, wondering how much Photoshop was involved.

That is indeed a real bear, however it isn't just your average bear. With the help of professional animal trainers, Plotnikova creates photographs you would never believe possible using the most savage of subjects.

The animals' majestic beauty complements the ethereality of her feminine subjects to create a surrealism that is equal parts mystifying and beautiful. The models appear unusually calm in the face of such ferocity, tying the whole project together.

Just how do the animals stay so still? The answer is simple: treats, and lots of 'em.

Animal Surrealism

1. Image: Katerina Plotnikova

2. Image: Katerina Plotnikova

3. Image: Katerina Plotnikova

4. Image: Katerina Plotnikova

5. Image: Katerina Plotnikova

6. Image: Katerina Plotnikova

7. Image: Katerina Plotnikova

8. Image: Katerina Plotnikova

9. Image: Katerina Plotnikova

10. Image: Katerina Plotnikova

11. Image: Katerina Plotnikova

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