Hologram - What is a hologram?

Definition of HOLOGRAM:

A hologram is a special type of photograph or image that creates a 3D image. Photographs are 2D images; they record light coming from one specific direction (reflected off an object) into a single lens. When we view objects, however, light reflects off an object and into the lenses of both of our eyes – our brain then merges these two images into a single 3D image. When we move around, the light reflected from the object reaches our eyes by a slightly different path and our brain updates the image accordingly (making areas appear lighter, darker, or even a different colour altogether). A hologram is a cross between these two types of image creation.

To create a hologram, a laser beam is fired into a half mirror, which splits the beam in two equal parts. One half bounces off a mirror onto the object being captured and is reflected onto a photographic plate. This half is called the object beam. The other half bounces off another mirror and directly onto the plate. This half is called the reference beam. As they reach the plate, the two beams interfere with each other; this is called the interference pattern and this is what is imprinted onto the plate to form the hologram. When we look at the hologram, it replicates how light would be reflected from the depicted object in real life (i.e. it would change as we move around), which creates a 3D image.

Hologram images can be made with multiple layers; usually, this is a background image and a foreground image. Creating a sense of depth between the background and foreground layers adds to the 3D effect.

Holograms are often added onto labels, which can then be used either for security or decorative purposes. Security labels featuring holograms are difficult to replicate, which means they are often used as warranty labels and security seals. Holographic patterns are also commonly used on security seals as well as on decorative labels, which can be used to draw attention.

Hologram stickers are made using embossed holograms. The original hologram is recorded on a photosensitive material. When this is developed, the hologram sits on the surface as a series of grooves. A layer of nickel is deposited over the hologram and then peeled off resulting in a metallic “shim”. The shim is placed onto a roller, where is it pressed (embossed) onto a roll of (usually) foil material. This material can then be used as the face material within a label construct.

Here is the Harvard-style citation to use if you would like to reference this definition of the word hologram:
Label Planet (2023) What does hologram mean? | Hologram Definition. Available at: https://www.labelplanet.co.uk/glossary/hologram/ (Accessed: January 1, 2024).