Colored dye diffusion images are produced using a recording material containing, on a layer support (layer element 1), a first dye absorbent layer (layer element 2), a light-sensitive element containing silver halide emulsion layers and color-providing compounds (layer element 3) and optionally a second dye absorbent layer (layer element 4), in that order. An imagewise distribution of diffusible dyes is produced in the light-sensitive element in the course of development and transferred to the first dye absorbent layer.The light-sensitive element is then decomposed by a treatment which decomposes its layers, e.g. by means of a proteolytic enzyme, but leaves the first dye absorbent layer intact. The second dye absorbent layer optionally present, which has a lower mordanting capacity than the first dye absorbent layer and serves to prevent contamination of the developer bath with diffusible dyes, is also decomposed.