The use of sulfinic acid radical substituted arylhydrazides in producing images in silver halide photographic elements is disclosed. The sulfinic acid radical substituted arylhydrazide can be incorporated in photographic silver halide, emulsions, and photographic elements. The sulfinic acid radical substituent is capable of activating the arylhydrazides, particularly for use at a lower alkaline pH. In negative working surface latent image forming emulsions the sulfinic acid radical substituted arylhydrazides permit higher speed or contrast to be achieved. In direct positive internal latent image forming emulsions increased nucleation activity and reduced rereversal can be achieved.