Holography
Introduction to Holography Course by William R. Alschuler - Spring 2023
Holography is a photographic technique that records the light scattered from an object and then presents it in a way that appears three-dimensional. This process involves the use of lasers to illuminate the subject and to record its image. Unlike traditional photography, which captures a two-dimensional image, holography captures the light field emitted by an object. This is achieved by recording the interference pattern between two light beams: the reference beam and the object beam, which reflects off the subject.
This course profoundly expanded my understanding and appreciation of both the art and science behind holography. This course has been a comprehensive exploration into not only the techniques of producing holograms that can be viewed in white light but also the underlying principles that make such stunning 3D images possible.
The course began with an introduction to stereoscopic imaging techniques, grounding our understanding of human perception and its application in holography. We delved into the photographic process, and the principles of geometrical, wave, and quantum optics, crucial for understanding how lasers and coherent light sources contribute to holography. Learning the history of holography connected us to the field's evolution, enriching our appreciation for its advancements. Hands-on practice in holographic and non-holographic stereo photography practices honed our skills, enabling us to critically evaluate 3D imaging technologies.
Hologram setup sketches
The course covered the science behind stereoscopic vision, the significance of atomic spectra, and the techniques in photography and holography. Equipped with knowledge and skills, we emerged ready to set up our holographic laboratories and continue exploring the potentials of 3D imaging. This course ignited my passion for further exploration and innovation in holography.