It was my birthday a few weeks ago and I used some of the money I got to buy my self a small photograph printer. I wanted to print 4×3 photos to use in a project book that I use to keep a record of my progress, and something small enough to take with me when we go on trips and holidays. So, I did some research and came across this recent model from Canon.
It’s a sublimation printer, so rather than printing lots of tiny dots next to each other it prints in several passes of yellow, red, blue and black to produce a better quality image.
Once the colours are applied it can lay over a matte or gloss finish.
Initially I found the images produced were a little on the dark side, but it was an easy job to find the right settings to produce something satisfactory.
The printer paper comes in packs with the ink cartridge. You can’t buy the paper or the ink individually, which means you’re tied in to buying both. The ink is just enough to suit the number of sheets you buy too. I bought two sizes, 4×3 and ‘credit card’ sized. For the credit card sized paper you will need to buy a different paper tray (about £15), which I think is a bit cheeky from Canon.
I’m really happy with the quality. I do think the paper and ink kits are a bit expensive though. There are cheaper none-Canon options available, but the reviews are hit and miss.
There are two ways to transfer your images to the printer. Firstly the Canon Selphy app, which is really easy to use. You can add filters, text, QR codes and edit your images. Or, you can print directly from an SD card or USB stick. I haven’t tried this way yet as the screen on the printer is too small for me to read as I have a visual impairment.
My only gripe with the printer is the optional battery is £180 – which is more than the printer. It would be nice to be able to go wireless, but not at that price. Other than that, if you’re looking for a small printer that gives good results then I would recommend looking at this one.
Shaun Madill Photography 