Abstract: A relief image-forming composition having an acidic pH comprises a photosensitive component and an indicator capable of existing in two states differing in actinic opacity dependent upon pH. A relief image is formed by (1) exposing to light selected areas of a layer of the composition, the indicator being in its state of lower actinic opacity, (2) removing layer material from the exposed areas or from the unexposed areas and (3) shifting the pH in the remaining layer material to a value at which the indicator exists in its state of higher actinic opacity. The resultant image can then be used as an intermediate original in diazotype copying processes.