In a method for forming an image, a liquid crystal shutter array or matrix is positioned between a photosensitive material and a light source, and light emitted by the light source to the photosensitive material is controlled by driving each liquid crystal shutter portion constituting a picture element of the liquid crystal shutter array or matrix. Drive of the liquid crystal shutter portion is controlled by using the driving pulses having a pulse width shorter than the response time of the liquid crystal and by changing the pulse width or the number of the driving pulses in accordance with an image signal. The photosensitive material is of the type which can express a half tone. When the liquid crystal shutter array or matrix which intercepts light upon application of a voltage is used, the driving pulses are applied prior to exposure to intercept light. Then application of the driving pulses is stopped for a time corresponding to the image signal so that the liquid crystal shutter allows the light to pass therethrough.