Improvement of image quality in holographic microscopy

A novel technique of noise reduction in holographic microscopy has been experimentally studied. It has been shown that significant improvement in the holomicroscopic images of actual low-contrast continuous tone biological objects can be achieved without trade off in image resolution. The technique makes use of holographically produced multidirectional phase gratings used as diffusers and the continuous addition of subchannel holograms. It has been shown that the self-imaging property of this type of diffuser makes the use of these diffusers ideal for microscopic objects. Experimental results have also been presented to demonstrate real-time image processing capability of this technique.