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# Print Quality Issues

Prints coming out blurry, too dark, or with weird colors? Here's how to diagnose and fix common print quality problems.

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## Common Quality Issues

### Blurry or Soft Prints

**Possible causes:**

* Low DPI setting in your template (should be 300)
* Low-resolution camera photos
* Template images (backgrounds, logos) are low-res

**Fix:**

* Set your template DPI to **300**
* Use the **back camera** for higher resolution captures (if possible)
* Replace low-res images in your template with higher quality versions

### Colors Look Wrong

**Possible causes:**

* Screen vs print color differences (this is normal to some degree)
* Printer color profile not calibrated
* Low-quality or third-party ink ribbons

**Fix:**

* Do test prints and adjust your template colors to compensate
* Use **manufacturer-recommended** paper and ink
* Calibrate your printer if it supports color profiles

### White Borders or Misaligned Prints

**Possible causes:**

* Template size doesn't match paper size
* Bleed area not configured properly
* Printer alignment is off

**Fix:**

* Verify your template size matches your loaded paper (2x6, 4x6, or 6x4)
* Add proper **bleed** to your template
* Run your printer's alignment/calibration utility

### Dark or Overexposed Prints

**Possible causes:**

* Poor lighting at the event
* Camera exposure settings

**Fix:**

* Improve your **lighting setup** — this has the biggest impact on photo quality
* Adjust camera exposure if your app or camera supports it
* Use a ring light or softbox for consistent, flattering light

### Lines or Streaks on Prints

**Possible causes:**

* Dirty printer head
* Damaged ink ribbon
* Debris in the printer

**Fix:**

* Run the printer's **cleaning cycle**
* Replace the ink ribbon
* Carefully clean the printer according to manufacturer instructions

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## Prevention Tips

* **Use genuine supplies** — Manufacturer paper and ink produce the best results
* **Clean your printer regularly** — Dust and debris accumulate over time
* **Test print at the venue** — Lighting conditions affect how prints look. Adjust on-site if needed.
* **Invest in good lighting** — No amount of software can fix photos taken in bad light

|| Print quality starts with photo quality. A well-lit, sharp photo will always print beautifully. Focus on getting great captures and the prints will follow.

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## Related Articles

* [Print Jobs Not Completing](/en/article/print-jobs-not-completing-adj1zi)
* [Template-Based Printing](/en/article/template-based-printing-6z01e6)
* [Supported Paper Sizes](/en/article/supported-paper-sizes-1u8s1q6)