Pigment-printed photos are rated for 200 years, whereas dye-printed photos can fade within a few months or years, depending on sunlight exposure. [1] X Research source
Load the photo paper into the tray of the printer. There should be an instruction manual to point out where the paper tray is. If you don’t have the manual, these can often be found online with a quick Google search. You may have to purchase a special printer that can accommodate larger prints if that is what you desire.
Glossy is great for showing the details and colors of the photo but is susceptible to glare when a light is reflecting off the surface of the photo. It is also prone to retaining fingerprints if someone handles the photo with greasy or sticky fingers. Luster is popular with professional portrait photographers, particularly for wedding and family portraits. The balance between glossy and matte makes for a nice, professional finish. Matte finishes are great for reducing the glare on a photograph by deflecting the light and will also prevent fingerprints from sticking to its surface. A matte finish is ideal for photos that are frequently handled.
Visit the website of the company you have chosen to print your photos. If you are not already a member, click “Join Now” or “Sign Up,” usually in the upper right or left corner of the website. If you are a member, log into your account.
Select the photographs that you would like to print, then select the size and quantity. You may have to do this one photo at a time, depending on how the service provider designs the process. Glossy photos will have a very shiny appearance whereas luster will have a much more subtle shine. Since you will not be able to physically see the difference, keep in mind that is generally best to choose a glossy finish if you want to display vivid colors but can retain fingerprints, whereas luster will not show colors as vividly but can better resist fingerprints.
Select the format. In-store kiosks will often give you the option of making special prints, such as photo books, calendars, posters, and even mugs or T-shirts. Simply select the option that you are looking for, such as standalone prints. You can also do more than one format if you desire. Choose the size and quantity. Once you have your images uploaded to the computer at the kiosk, you will be prompted to choose size and quantity of the images to be printed. This may be done one photo at a time and should allow you the opportunity to adjust or crop the images so that they fit the print perfectly. Make adjustments such as zooming, color adjustment, changing the image to black and white and more, while placing your order. Select either the one-hour or multiple-day option. This timeframe refers to when you will be able to pick up your photos. Most stores now offer a pickup time within the same day; however, if multiple-day rates are offered, they are generally less expensive.
