How to optimise for photographs on HP ColorLaserjet Printer M255-M256

[NickSSS]

Hello All!

Sorry -- I know this is a kind of question that has come up but I still need advice.

I am in Sweden and using an HP ColorLaserjet Printer M255-M256.

Usually it's just for documents, occasionally for photographs.

I will usually get prints done professionally but I would like to use the printer for smaller proofs though I have not got very accurate looking prints from it yet. Admittedly, they are on plain paper.

For me, 360dpi is enough resolution and it is mainly color that I would like to improve if possible.

I know inkjet is best but still...

1. Under "Properties" > Paper/Quality tab > Paper Type there is a long list of media to print -- see image below.

Which of these are most suited to this printer for photographs? I would prefer a matte finish.

2. Also, this tab has "Print Quality" set to ImageREt3600 though I cannot change it.

Is that something I could try to adjust?

3. I heard that I can let my color management in my photo editor (e.g. Photoshop Elements or Lightroom 5) or even in my Windows settings produce more accurate results.

Would that be via "Properties" > Color > Color Themes and select  "Photo (Adobe RGB 1998)"?

Or is there another way?

4. I am using a calibrated monitor. Would it be worth trying to calibrate the printer? (I would have to figure out how!) I have heard that for some printers it's possible to create a profile from the monitor calibration to then install in the printer. But I have a sense that that really may be asking too much of this printer.

Thank you for any advice,

Nick

[Repairatrooper · Accepted solution]

If you want Matte finish the the Photo Matte 200g would be best. If you have a calibration device then you will for sure get closer results and yes that works by creating a custom color profile.

[NickSSS]

Thank you Repairatrooper!