In 1980, Los Angeles-based portrait photographer and filmmaker Bobby Holland photographed Michael Jackson in a 1980 studio session. This was during the Off the Wall era, when Jackson was rising as a solo star after the album’s 1979 success.
The shoot featured vivid studio backdrops (notably rich reds and warm lighting) paired with Jackson wearing casual yet stylish silk/button-up shirts and denim, reflecting the post-disco/early ‘80s R&B aesthetic.
In 1980, 21-year-old Jackson was solidifying his identity as an independent adult solo artist away from Motown and The Jacksons. Holland’s photographs caught him at a peak moment of youthful confidence, poise, and emerging megastardom.
Holland has described knowing the Jackson family well. On Michael specifically, he recalled: “Michael was a very special individual. He was quite reserved but, unlike Stevie Wonder, he was always early. You just knew he was going to do great things… When it was time for him to step in front of the lens he could really turn it on and show everyone exactly why he was dubbed The King of Pop.” In another comment, Holland noted Jackson’s total focus, preparation, and involvement in every aspect of sessions (music, lighting, lens, sets, vibe), learned from Motown training.
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