Hp Envy Not Printing Properly On Glossy Paper

[DeDe79]

I bought the Hp Envy about three months ago and when I first set it up, I did a test print on the 5x5 glossy printer paper that came with it. It printed a color photo perfectly. However, I have not been able to print any glossy photos since. I am trying to print on kodak 4x6 glossy paper but the ink just sets on top of the paper in little bead droplets of ink. I don't see any difference in the kodak glossy paper and the glossy paper that came with the printer. Am I wrong about that? Is the problem with the paper I am using or is it something else. I will purchase the hp paper and update this post with whether or not it fixes the problem.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @DeDe79 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

It sounds like your HP Envy Inspire 7258e is struggling with ink adhesion on Kodak glossy paper, even though it worked fine with the sample paper. This issue is often related to paper compatibility, print settings, or ink drying properties.

Troubleshooting Glossy Paper Printing Issues

Check Paper Type Settings

• In HP Smart or your print settings, ensure the paper type is set to Glossy Photo Paper.
• If available, select HP Advanced Photo Paper—some printers optimize ink application based on brand-specific settings.

Use HP Recommended Paper

• HP printers are calibrated for HP-branded glossy paper, and some third-party papers may not absorb ink properly.
• If the Kodak paper isn’t absorbing ink, switching to HP glossy paper might resolve the issue.

Adjust Print Quality Settings

• Try setting print quality to Best instead of Normal or Draft.
• Some printers allow you to adjust dry time—increase it if ink is pooling.

Check Ink Cartridge & Printhead

• Run a Printhead Cleaning cycle from Printer Maintenance in HP Smart.
• Ensure ink cartridges are properly installed and not clogged.
• If HP glossy paper works but Kodak doesn’t, the issue is likely paper coating incompatibility.
• Some glossy papers have coatings that resist ink absorption, causing beading.

Let me know if switching to HP paper resolves the issue!
 

You deserve crisp, high-quality photo prints.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[DeDe79]

Hi @Hawks_Eye,

I received the hp Everyday Photos Paper in 4x6 glossy that I ordered when I discovered that the ink would not adhere to the kodak glossy paper I already had. When compared side by side the papers are undistinguishable from each other, but it turns out that was the problem, nevertheless. With the new Hp paper installed, I printed a very complex photo with a black and white subject and color background. The ink adhered perfectly, and I am so impressed with the result. Just to make sure, I switched back to the kodak paper and printed the same image. Total waste of ink. It just beads up and floats on the surface of the paper. So, my problem is solved, and I am headed to order all the other sizes of photo paper now and upgrade my plan. Let me know if you have a promo code I can use on my order. Thank you for the support.

[Hawks_Eye]

@DeDe79 

That’s great to hear! It’s always satisfying when a simple material swap solves a frustrating issue. 

You can check out more deals here: https://www.hp.com/us-en/contact-hp/ww-how-to-buy.html

Hope you find a good discount!

If you need anything else, I'm all ears (or rather, all text). Just let me know! 

You're awesome, and I'm honored to have been your go-to guide today! 😊

Stay fantastic, and have an amazing day ahead! 

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye