print quality

[Paolo_Buzz]

hi, my new hp color laser mfp 178 is printing OK for word and basic stuff but when it comes to printing pictures the images are coming out a lot darker and dull, when compared to the image on screen, especially where the image is light and bright. For example, i have just printed a photo taken in bright room during the day but the print looks like the picture was taken at night. I have tried adjusting contrast etc in settings on the mobile app but it did not really change it much. Any other suggestions noting the toners are all new ones supplied by HP etc. 

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @Paolo_Buzz,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I completely understand how frustrating it must be to see your vibrant, daylight-filled photos turn into dull, shadowy prints. You’ve taken the right first steps by checking contrast settings and confirming your toner is fresh. Let’s go a little deeper together to bring your prints back to life.

Why This Happens

Your HP Color Laser MFP 178nw is optimized for office-style documents, not photo printing. Laser printers use toner, which doesn’t blend colors the same way inkjet printers do. This can lead to:

• Darker tones in light areas
• Loss of brightness and subtle gradients
• Flat or muted colors, especially in skin tones or natural light scenes

But don’t worry, there are ways to improve this!

Recommended Steps to Improve Photo Print Quality

Here’s what HP suggests for your model:

1. Use the Right Paper Type
   Always use laser photo paper or HP Color Laser Glossy Paper. Regular paper absorbs toner differently and can dull your images.
    
2. Adjust Print Settings
   On your computer or mobile app:
   • Go to Print > Preferences > Paper/Quality
   • Set Paper Type to “Glossy” or “Photo”
   • Set Print Quality to “Best” or “High Resolution”
      
3. Calibrate the Printer
   This aligns the colors and sharpens the output.
   • On the printer control panel, go to Setup > Reports > Print Quality Report
   • Follow prompts to calibrate the printer
      
4. Update Firmware & Drivers
   Ensure your printer is running the latest software:
   • Visit the HP Color Laser MFP 178nw | HP® Support
   • Download and install any updates under Software & Drivers
      
5. Try Printing from a Different App
   Sometimes the HP Smart app doesn’t handle photo color profiles well. Try printing from:
   • Windows Photo Viewer
   • macOS Preview
   • Or a dedicated photo editing app like Photoshop Express

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat