This invention relates to a method and apparatus for atomizing a liquid stream of metal or metal alloy. This invention relates to producing powders as well as to spray deposition process. During atomizing, a backpressure is created below the exit of the liquid delivery nozzle by the impingement of the atomization gas jets around the atomization zone. And this may block further atomization. The present invention provides a method of atomizing and an atomizing apparatus to control the backpressure. During atomizing, the intensities and directions of the atomization gas jets affects the atomization characteristics. The present invention provides a method of atomizing and an atomizing apparatus to control both the intensities and directions of the atomization gas jets.