In one embodiment, an imaging apparatus includes a light modulator array having modulators arranged in a loosely-packed configuration. For example, the modulators may be arranged in columns at a first pitch, and the columns may be spaced at a second pitch. The optically active areas of the modulators may form a repeating pattern including a hexagonal pattern, a rectangular pattern, or a diamond pattern. In one embodiment, the modulators are diffractive light modulators.