A positive image recording material applicable to infrared laser comprising a support whereon is formed a photosensitive/heatsensitive layer containing (A) an alkali-soluble resin, (B) a photothermal conversion substance, and (C) at least one compound selected from a group of compounds defined by the formulae (I), (II), (III), and (IV) exhibiting improved solubility to an alkaline developer following exposure with an infrared laser ##STR00001## wherein the substituent groups of the formulae (I) to (IV) are specified in the specification for this invention.