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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Paper Jams & Feed Issues
- Error Message - photo tray

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08-06-2025 07:53 AM - edited 08-06-2025 07:53 AM
@Ladycap902, Hello and welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for posting your question. I'm here to help you get things back on track.
The “Photo Tray Problem” error typically indicates that the printer is unable to detect or properly engage the photo tray. Here are some steps you can follow to resolve this issue:
Check and Reseat the Photo Tray
- Lift the output tray and gently extend the photo tray.
- Remove any photo paper from the tray.
- Slide the photo tray all the way in until it clicks into place.
- Lower the output tray and press OK on the printer control panel.
Make sure the guide tabs (grey) on the photo tray slide beneath the main tray guides (black). The tray should move freely without resistance.
Power Reset
- Turn off the printer using the Power button.
- Unplug the power cord from the wall and the printer.
- Disconnect any USB cables.
- Wait 30 seconds, then reconnect the power cord directly to a wall outlet (avoid surge protectors).
- Turn the printer back on and reconnect the USB cable if needed.
Adjust Print Settings (if printing from PC or app)
- Ensure the photo tray is selected in your print settings.
- Choose the correct paper type (e.g., glossy photo paper) and paper size.
- On Windows, you can do this via the Photos app or HP Smart app.
- On macOS, adjust settings in the Print dialog before printing.
Update Copy Defaults (if using printer directly)
- On the printer control panel, go to Copy Menu.
- Set Paper Size and Paper Type to Automatic.
- Choose Set as New Defaults → Yes, change defaults.
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, the printer may need servicing. In that case, please visit the nearest HP authorized service center, the service team will check and assist you.
Kindly follow this link to locate the nearest HP service center: HP® Service Center Locator - United States | HP® Support
(Select the country from the dropdown menu and enter the city name or pincode)
I hope the information shared has been useful and resolves your concern.
Wishing you a smooth and hassle-free experience ahead!
If this solution helped, please click “Accepted Solution” so others can benefit too. Don’t forget to hit the “Yes” button if you found this helpful!
Warm regards,
Max3Aj
HP Support