Photo Processing Options by Kelli Regan
In the August 2010 issue of ParentLife, Kelli Regan helped you navigate the 7 Cs of digital photography. And with the kids headed back to school, you may have some great first-day-of-school photos you are ready to print. At-home, in-store, and online options for printing photos and creating projects abound. With so many choices, which is best? Let's consider the pros and cons.
Print at Home
With the cost of photo printers falling, do-it-yourself photo printing seems like a good idea. But is it?
Pros:
- Instant gratification
- Convenience
- Good choice for a few pictures
- Creative control
Cons:
- Cost. Ink and photo paper are expensive. The average print-at-home 4x6 photo costs upwards of 28 cents.
- Upfront cost of purchasing photo printer, ink, and photo paper
- Added technical involvement
Retail Store Self-Service.
Just about every drugstore, warehouse, and mass merchandiser (such as CVS, Rite Aid, Sam’s Club, Costco, Target, and Walmart) offer a photo kiosk. To use one, just bring your camera’s media card or a photo CD and get started.
Pros:
- Consistently high-quality prints
- Prints are usually less than 19 cents each
- Often ready in an hour
- On-site editing
- Variety of print and gift options available
- Most offer online sites to upload and pre-order pictures
Cons:
- Hassle factor of going to the store, waiting in line, and standing there to edit/upload/order
- Once out of your camera, the tiny media card is easy to lose. Guard it carefully!
Online Photo Finishers
Online photo sites are sprouting up every day, but the three most popular are Shutterfly, Snapfish, and Kodak Gallery. Each offers similar services, products, and pricing.
Pros:
- Cost: Prints can be as low as 9 cents each.
- Done in the comfort of your own home
- Consistently high-quality prints
- Online editing and special effects
- Photos remain on the site for future use
- Pick up prints at local retailers.
- Extensive variety of photo products including photo books, posters, cards, notepads, puzzles, calendars, mugs, and more
Cons:
- Wait time of two to five days
- Cost of shipping
What is your favorite way to print your digital photos? Do you have tips for readers who are just getting started in digital photography? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment!
Comments (1)
Great advice!
I love the freedom of digital cameras. I can do any editing of my photos and then take them to Walgreens for a great price to print!
Also for uploading to my blog or Facebook! Digital is a dream!
Posted on August 10, 2010 8:53 PM