Snapshot Printers
Unless you’re planning to frame your prints, a snapshot printer may be all you need. Most of these li’l gems can crank out standard-size 4-by-6-inch or 5-by-7-inch prints quickly, easily, and affordably—and they’ll save you a trip to your local Walgreens.—RL Important Specs Ink or dye sub? Most snapshot printers use inkjet technology, but some use dye sublimation. Dye subs produce a better range of colors and continuous tones, but the per-image media and dye-ribbon costs of using a dye sub is usually higher than that of an inkjet printer. PortabIlIty These printers are made for toting, so look for carrying handles or cases, portable power supplies and batteries, and light weight. ConneCtIvIty If you’re printing on the go, you’ll be connecting your camera directly to your snapshot printer, so look for PictBridge connectivity with your digital camera. Also, look for card slots, so you can take your camera’s memory card, insert it into the printer, and print a picture.lCd Many snapshot printers have full-color LCDs that let you
preview the image you’re about to print, and built-in software that allows you to make minor image edits. Lower-priced snapshot printers won’t have an LCD.
When You’re Shopping
Bring your camera Make sure it’s full of pics—remove the risqué ones frst,unless Aunt Eloise is an exhibitionist. Connect your camera to the printer and print a few samples. You’ll not only see the printer’s image quality, but also get hands-on experience on how easy—or diffcult—the printer is to use.carry it If you plan to travel with the printer, close it up and carry it. Also, check to see if a protective case is available. The printer shouldn’t be unwieldy, too heavy, or have important parts unprotected. Don’t forget to consider the power adapter, paper, ink, and other accessories you’ll want to pack.
Ask the Salesperson
What’s the price per page? Extrapolate the cost of consumables per printed page and compare it to the cost of using a professional photo processor. The typical cost per page for a snapshot printer is about $.25 per print. You can get prices as low as $.16 per print at a service bureau, but that doesn’t consider the value of time and convenience—which only you can put a price on. are print packs availaBle? Many snapshot-printer manufacturers sell packs, which include paper and ink, that make it easier to refll your printer.
