Image transfer method and apparatus in which scratches due to entrainment of particles on an image carrier for a toner image having maximum spectroreflectivity at a wavelength of 550 nm do not produce perceptible flaws in resulting images transferred to a recording medium, since images formed with toner of maximum spectroreflectivity at 550 nm on white recording medium are difficult for human eyes to discern. When cleaning residual toner from transfer belts, reverse bias voltage is applied to at least one transfer roller, the peripheral velocity of the photosensitive drum on which a yellow toner image having maximum spectroreflectivity at 550 nm is formed is allowed to differ from the transfer velocity of the transfer belt, and at least the photosensitive drum on which the yellow toner image of maximum spectroreflectivity at 550 nm is formed is detached from the transfer belt.