prints from Target

[Volatile]

We got a coupon for 26 free prints from Target, and so tried it out. I made a CD with 26 pics I needed printing and dropped it off. A few hours later, I was disappointed. The prints are grainy. I can easily see the little dots of ink. I don't know what dpi they print at, but I brought them 3072X2048 jpgs, and they result has the details all blocky looking. If I had a scanner, I'd scan one and let you guys judge. I have a feeling that whatever program they use does not scale resolution properly. or something like that.

Of course, the wife can't notice any problem, and is stoked to get 26 free prints on quality Kodak paper... sigh...

[tpinchback]

I think Walmart has better printers than Target. I agree that unless you get the prints for free, stay away from Target and Walmart.

[pradeep1]

Yeah, I tried their 25 prints for free deal and the prints looked really crappy. I gave them super fine .JPGs from my 4MP G3 and they still looked like something taken from a sub-megapixel camera. The prints had everything wrong, including color balance, exposure, etc. Walmart does a good job with their printing. I've been able to print good 8X10 for giving as gifts to people for only $2.85 + tax and have been very pleased. Their Fuji Frontier system does not mess with my files and prints them almost the same as they look on my monitor at home. 8)

[r2d2]

Also Costco and Longs (dont know if they are around you) does a pretty good job. No complaints yet. They are only 19 cents for 4x6 at Costco and only 24 cents at Longs. Longs also uses the Fugi system as well, so maybe that is why they look good as has been previously stated.

[Malok]

Pradeep and r2d2 are right on. The big issue is the printer. Don't tell anyone, but I do all my prints up to 10x15 on a Fuji Frontier printer at Costco and then mount and sell them for more than a few pennies. If the Fuji Frontier is calibrated daily and run by capable people, they produce amazing prints on Fuji Crystal Archive paper. I actually took some of my enlargements to one of the top professional developing labs in my city and asked them to rate the quality. They thought they were wonderful and wanted to know who their competition was. When I told them that I only paid $1.50 for an 8x10, they couldn't believe it as they charge around $8-$10. Find the stores in your area that use the Fuji Frontier printer, print a couple of test copies at each and find out who knows how to operate the equipment. You won't be disapointed and you may be able to get your prints done for just pennies. A 4x6 costs me just $0.18!