A simple digital holographic apparatus and method allow reconstruction of
three-dimensional objects with a very narrow depth of focus or high axial
resolution. A number of holograms are optically generated using different
wavelengths spaced at regular intervals. They are recorded, such as on a
digital camera, and are reconstructed numerically. Multiwavelength
interference of the holograms results in contour planes of very small
thickness and wide separation. Objects at different distances from the
hologram plane are imaged clearly and independently with complete
suppression of the out-of-focus images. The technique is uniquely
available only in digital holography and has applications in holographic
microscopy.