Systems and methods for creating an autostereoscopic display include a holographic optical element (HOE) recorded using coherent light divided into diverging reference and object beams that illuminate the HOE from opposite sides. The object beam passes through first and second diffusers with one diffuser being a directional diffuser to more uniformly illuminate the HOE. Optic elements may be used to more closely match beam diameters and/or profiles of the recording wavelengths. Baffles may be positioned on opposite sides of the HOE with openings aligned proximate the reference beam and object beam paths, respectively, to reduce stray reflections and provide ambient air flow attenuation or damping. One or more edges of the HOE are masked to reduce or prevent stray light from entering and reflecting within the HOE during recording.