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Behind the Scenes at Scientific American MIND’s May/June Cover Shoot!

The May/June cover is a first for Scientific American MIND in that it features our first non-human cover boy - a very handsome 5 year old Border Collie named Ten!

This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American


Aaron Goodman photographs Ten. Credit: Liz Tormes

The May/June cover is a first for Scientific American MIND in that it features our first non-human cover boy – a very handsome 5 year old Border Collie named Ten! Photographer Aaron Goodman photographed him in his Manhattan studio in February.

Ten gets ready for his close-up. Credit: Liz Tormes


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Ten, who is the first GCH OTCH (Grand Champion and Obedience Trial Champion) Border Collie in AKC history, charmed everyone on set. Accompanied by his trainer, Ten arrived on set perfectly groomed and ready to go.

A A total Pro! Credit: Liz Tormes

Ten was attentive and relaxed during the session, seemingly unfazed by the bright flash of lights going off with every click of the shutter.

A A little bit of food goes a long way. Credit: Liz Tormes

Of course we were not above a little bribery to get a range of different looks from Ten! A small bit of chicken held near the camera bought us some more serious looks from our cover boy.

Reviewing images from the shoot. Credit: Liz Tormes

The May/June issue of Scientific American MIND features a special report investigating why we keep pets and how dogs became man’s best friends. The issue hits newsstands on April 15, and iPad subscribers can enjoy more of our cover model, Ten, in a special video segment.

All photos by Liz Tormes