Soluble and inherent photoimageable polyimides with improved photopatterning features were prepared from alpha,alpha-(4-amino-3,5-dimethylphenyl)phenylmethane and 3,3',4,4'-benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride. The polyimides possessed good combined chemical and physical properties: thermal stability was observed, with an initial thermal decomposition temperature of 565 degreesC and a high glass-transition temperature of 318 degreesC. Homogeneous polyimide solutions in common organic solvents with solid contents as high as 20 wt % were prepared. These solutions had a shelf life greater than 3 months. The polyimides had high electric insulating properties and low dielectric constants and dissipation factors. Fine patterns were processed by direct exposure of the polyimide coatings to UV i-line, followed by development with an organic developer.