Imaging layers, image recording media, and methods of preparation of each, are disclosed. One exemplary embodiment of the imaging layer, among others, includes a matrix; a radiation absorbing compound dissolved in the matrix; an aromatic compound dissolved in the matrix; a color former; and an activator. One of the activator and the color former is dissolved in the matrix and the other of the activator and the color former is substantially insoluble in the matrix at ambient conditions and is substantially uniformly distributed in the matrix.