-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Paper Jams & Feed Issues
- Smart Tank 7301 Prints Incorrectly on Photo Paper

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
05-29-2024 10:20 AM
So, I've been trying to print photos on HP photo paper on this Smart Tank 7301 printer using 4x6 and 5x7 sizes. Problem is that these photos will come out with about a 5mm offset to the left and smears on the bottom of the photo paper from where they are fed into the printer. Borderless or bordered printing, doesn't matter because it always ends up like this.
Now, if I do a print on letter size or A4 print or photo paper, there are no issues and the prints come out perfectly. I've seen a similar post to this, and can confirm that following the steps given still don't resolve the issue. The rollers engage with the paper too late to avoid this unforced offset. Of interest is the print tray having adjustments on the sides of smaller paper sizes, but not having a way to secure them from behind.
05-30-2024 01:22 PM
Hi @kuronekoNCR,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
It sounds like you're experiencing alignment and smearing issues when printing photos on HP photo paper with your Smart Tank 7301 printer. Here are some steps you can try to troubleshoot and resolve the problem:
Check Paper Alignment and Size Settings:
- Ensure that the photo paper is loaded correctly in the paper tray. Make sure it's aligned properly against the paper guides.
- Verify that you have selected the correct paper size and type settings in the printer driver settings before printing.
Clean Paper Path and Rollers:
- Sometimes, dirt or debris on the paper path or rollers can cause smearing issues. Clean the paper path and rollers using a lint-free cloth lightly moistened with water.
Adjust Paper Guides:
- If your printer has adjustable paper guides for smaller paper sizes, ensure they are set snugly against the edges of the photo paper to prevent misalignment during printing.
Calibrate Printer:
- Some printers have a calibration option in the settings menu. Check if your printer has this feature and perform a calibration to ensure proper alignment.
Update Printer Firmware and Drivers:
- Ensure that your printer firmware and drivers are up to date. Sometimes, software updates can fix compatibility issues and improve printing performance.
Try Different Paper Brands or Types:
- If the issue persists, try using a different brand or type of photo paper. Some papers may be more compatible with your printer than others.
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Rachel571
HP Support
Sneha_01- HP support
05-31-2024 08:56 AM
Hello, and thank you for the reply.
With all due deference, and as stated previously, these steps do not work to alleviate the issue. Prints on 4x6 and 5x7 papers will continue to show the same problems as of now.
To repeat, all steps have been done in an attempt to improve the printing experience, but to no avail, the issue continues to persist.
05-31-2024 09:44 AM
Hi @kuronekoNCR ,
We are sorry that the issue is not resolved when the above troubleshooting steps were performed.
Unfortunately, there are no further actions we can take through this channel. I recommend reaching out to our phone support for further assistance.
1. Click on this link - https://support.hp.com/us-en
2. Select the country.
3. Enter the serial number of your device.
4. Select the country from the drop-down.
5. Click on "Show Options".
6. Fill out the web form. A case number and phone number will now populate for you.
Please feel free to contact us here anytime you need any further assistance.
Have a great day!
Rachel571
HP Support
Sneha_01- HP support