The Cheapest Way to Get Color Photos Printed: A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing the cheapest way to get color photos printed can save you considerable money, especially if you frequently print photos. Factors such as the quantity of prints, photo size, and your location all play a role in determining the most cost-effective options. Below, we explore several methods, compare prices, and share our personal experiences with photo-printing apps.
Online Printing Services
Online printing services like Shutterfly, Snapfish, and Vistaprint often run promotions and offer discounts, particularly for bulk orders. Checking for coupon codes and first-time user discounts can significantly reduce costs. Additionally, local drugstores and retailers such as Walgreens, CVS, and Walmart typically offer competitive prices for photo printing. Instant photo kiosks at these stores can also provide a quick and easy solution. To stay informed about these deals, subscribe to their newsletters or follow them on social media.
Discount Photo Printing Services
Specialized photo printing services like Printique and Mpix can offer affordable rates, particularly for larger quantities or specific sizes. These services often have dedicated areas for bulk printing, further lowering costs per print.
Bulk Printing Options
If you need a large number of prints, consider services that specialize in bulk printing. These services often offer lower prices per print, making them ideal for weddings, events, or displays. For example, bulk printing might be more economical for parents ordering multiple photo albums.
DIY Printing
If you have a good quality color printer at home, DIY printing can be a cost-effective option. Buying photo paper in bulk can significantly reduce the cost per print. However, be aware of the cost of ink, as it can quickly add up. Additionally, investing in high-quality photo paper can improve print quality and make your photos last longer.
Promotional Offers and Comparison Shopping
Mindful of promotions and participating in seasonal sales, special promotions, or loyalty programs can further reduce costs. Price comparison websites can also help you find the best deals. Don't forget to consider local print shops, as they might offer competitive rates.
Personal Experience with Photo Printing Apps
I am an avid photo-printing enthusiast, taking many photos on my iPhone, and still preferring the tangible feel of holding onto physical prints. I've been invested in finding the best photo printing apps on the market. After thorough research, I discovered three apps that stand out:
Shutterly
Shutterly offers unlimited photo prints, but you have to pay for shipping and handling. It also provides customizable photo products, which is a great feature. However, shipping and handling charges can add up.
Freeprints
Freeprints also offer unlimited photo prints, up to 85 prints a month, and 1000 prints per year. However, the app has several restrictions. For instance, you cannot order multiple prints of the same image without paying extra. Shipping and handling is not free, similar to Shutterfly.
Printage
Printage is a relatively new app that offers unlimited photo prints, like Shutterly and Freeprints. The standout feature of Printage is its built-in editing options, which allow you to choose different backgrounds, layouts, and fonts. Additionally, Printage has the lowest shipping and handling fees, making it a more cost-effective choice.
Overall, Printage has a user-friendly interface, suits my needs, and offers competitive rates. It is worth mentioning that it might not be as well-known as Shutterly and Freeprints, but its features and pricing make it a strong contender.