Iterative algorithms for holographic shaping of non-diffracting and self-imaging light beams

We have developed iterative algorithms for the calculation of holograms for non- diffracting or self- imaging light beams. Our methods make use of the special Fourier- space properties of the target beams. We demonstrate experimentally the holographic generation of perhaps the most challenging type of beam: a self- imaging beam shaped in more than one plane. Potential applications include the generation of light crystals for optical trapping and atomic diffraction studies.(c) 2006 Optical Society of America.