Characterization of hologram elements (hogels) produced using specially designed test pattern images provides more accurate information that can be used to render images for use in hogel production. Once a test pattern is selected, one or more hogels are recorded in a holographic recording material using a spatial light modulator displaying the test pattern image. Recorded hogels can then be played back to produce an image of the test pattern. Characterization of this image yields information that is used to select angles used to render oblique parallel projections of a computer graphics scene. The rendered projections are then used to record hogels that will produce images with reduced distortion.