can you help me fix this?

[happyscrapper]

The photos that i have downloaded from my camara look great on my computer screen but when i print them out they are very dark, as if no flash was used.I have lightened the pictures up a bit but they still come out darker than they should look. Can anyone suggest what i could check to correct this? I am in the middle of a project that i am already behind on. My computer/printer is new and the software is new(adobe photoshop elements 4) . let me warn you that i am not that computer savvy but i would appreciate your help!Thanks in advance!!!!!

[vawitt]

Happyscrapper - I've not done this, but I believe there is a way to calibrate PSE for optimal printing. I'm sure someone will chime right in with the how-to.

Also, what type of paper are you using? Sometimes you get less than stellar results when using "plain" paper - the inks soak in and run/bleed. Have you tried papers designed for printing photos and for your specific printer?

Hope these ideas point you in the right direction!

~Val in chilly IL

[happyscrapper]

I have been using glossy photopaper. Hopefully i will get some more suggestions! thanks!

[GaryK]

Hi

I noticed in your other post you were using a Pixma 150

I am using the Pixma 400 and there is an option to print lighter in my print driver. I'm not sure what you have and I am NOT using any colour management so this may not be ideal.

On the General tab I have a spot to do a manual colour setup (radio button).
When I pick it, it unlocks another button that says set. Click on set and I can adjust the intensity or in a pulldown menu under the ICM button I can pick lighter.. default is normal.

Hope yours is similar:)

[happyscrapper]

Thanks. I'll take a look at my printer but do you think it could be something as simple(?) as aligning the print cartridge? I finally found my user guide and as i flipped i noticed the heading. Have i mentioned i am not very computer literate?! (as if you couldnt tell)lol
thanks for your help