A method and system for forming filter elements on a plurality of display substrates using a digital imaging system operable to selectively deposit filter material at a plurality of deposition locations is disclosed. The method involves receiving orientation information defining a disposition of a plurality of pixels associated with the at least one display substrate, identifying pixels in the plurality of pixels that are to receive filter material for forming a filter element on the pixel, selecting deposition locations within each of the identified pixels in accordance with the orientation information to meet an alignment criterion associated with placement of the filter element within the pixel, and controlling the digital imaging system to cause deposition of the filter material at the selected deposition locations. A method and system for forming filter elements on a substrate is also disclosed, which involves selecting locations to receive filter material for forming filter elements on the substrate, introducing a random variation in placement of the filter elements, and forming filter elements at the selected locations, the substrate being subsequently aligned to a display substrate for forming a display. A method and system for forming filter elements on a display substrate is also disclosed, which involves selectively depositing filter material to form the filter elements on a plurality of pixels associated with the display substrate, and selectively exposing the deposited filter material to thermal laser radiation to condition the deposited filter material.