Prints are too dark when printing

[iambusyreading]

How do you get the printer to print photo quality color when printing directly from a graphics program to the printer? I am using an HP deskjet, 4252e all in one printer. The photos print but are too dark. I can not print this image from the HP smart app as that app does not allow custom size printing for some unknown reason (probably related to the company wanting you to buy a more expensive printer to have this function). When I do print the same photo from the app the colors are perfect but the photo can't be used as it is the wrong size. 

I do not have access to color settings to change the lightness or darkness in the EWS, so that suggestion does not work for me.

So far, this is the worst printer I have ever used and I am not pleased at all with this design. 

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @iambusyreading,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

I can truly understand how frustrating it is when your printer doesn’t deliver the photo quality you expect, especially when you’ve already seen it perform well in the HP Smart app, but are limited by its lack of custom size support. Let’s work through this together and get you the best possible results from your HP DeskJet 4252e.

Steps to Improve Photo Print Quality from Graphics Programs

1. Adjust Color Settings in the Print Dialog

When printing from a graphics program (like Photoshop, GIMP, or even Paint), go to:

• File > Print > Printer Properties / Preferences
• Look for Color Options, Paper Type, and Print Quality

Set the following:

• Paper Type: Choose HP Photo Paper or Best Quality Inkjet Paper
• Print Quality: Set to Best
• Color Mode: Choose Photo (sRGB) or Adobe RGB if your image uses that color space

2. Disable HP EasyColor (if available)

HP EasyColor can sometimes overcorrect or darken images. You can disable it in the driver settings:

• Go to Printer Properties > Advanced > Color Settings
• Uncheck HP EasyColor and manually adjust brightness and contrast

3. Clean and Align the Printhead

Dark or uneven prints may be caused by clogged nozzles or misalignment.

Use the HP Smart app:

• Open the app > Select your printer > Go to Tools
• Run Clean Printhead and Align Printer

4. Check Paper Type and Orientation

• Use HP Advanced Photo Paper for the best results.
• Make sure the glossy side is facing the correct direction (usually down in front-loading trays).
• Avoid curled or wrinkled paper. 
   

5. Update Printer Firmware and Drivers

Outdated firmware can affect print quality. Download the latest updates here: 🔗 HP DeskJet 4252e All-in-One Printer | HP® Support

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat