A sensor element with a memory for changes of the incident light intensity. The sensor element comprises a light-sensitive element connected in series with a fixed resistor, and a light modulator shunted either across the light-sensitive element or the resistor. The light modulator influences the incidence of light onto the light-sensitive element. The reflection, absorption and/or transmission behavior of the light modulator changes as a function of the applied voltage or the current. The sensor element according to the invention has the advantage that it can be manufactured simply and cost-effectively so that it is also suitable for use in large arrays.