A process is proposed for producing complete or partial metallic layers of an organometallic compound on a substrate by irradiation with a light source. In the process, a support (1) which is coated with the organometallic compound (2) and is transparent to UV or light is placed at a specified distance (A) in front of the substrate (3) with the organometallic compound facing the substrate. The organometallic compound is then exposed to the action of pulsed photon beams having a defined wavelength, preferably a wavelength of 190 nm...550 nm. Alternatively, the photon beam is focused with the aid of a lens (5) and can be moved in the XYZ direction in relation to the support/substrate (1/2/3), or a mask (23, 26) is placed in front of or behind the support (1). The metallic layer is then reinforced by electroless or electrodeposited metallisation. <IMAGE>