Getting the best photo quality from my printer

[oceanauk]

How can I produce reasonable photos on my not so great printer?  I have a Lexmark Z617 and I'm trying to print 5.5megapixal pics on super glossy heavyweight 4" x 6" inkjet paper. So far they've been quite fuzzy and dotty.  Any ideas please?  many thanks!

[jenky]

Are you selecting the correct paper in 'print option' before printing? This affects the quality and amount of ink used. Also if you are preparing the pics in photoshop first, switch from RGB to CMYK.

[oceanauk]

Hi jenky - yes I'm changing the paper type and adjusting the print quality to best but it's not making any difference.  Also, I'm not altering the pictures in any way, I'm printing them "as is"!

[Dsg]

Try cleaning the print cartridges (see Lexmark menu for maintenance) and then re-alligning the heads (same menu) - this assumes that the cartridges are reasonably full. What program are you using to print the photos - I always use Picassa.