Printer not picking up photo paper from photo tray. Always says "Empty"

[albright48]

When I go to print off a picture from my lap top computer it won't print from the photo paper tray. The message says the tray is" empty" despite it being full of photo paper.  I have not problem with the 8.5 by 11 tray.

[Flower_Bud]

Hi @albright48,

Welcome to HP Forums,

This is a great place to get support, find answers and tips,

Thank you for posting your query, I'll be more than glad to help you out 🙂

As I understand, your printer is not printing from photo tray.

Don't worry as I'll be glad to help, however, to provide an accurate resolution, I need a few more details:

When was the last time it was working fine? 

Did you make any hardware/software changes? 

Are you able to print from a different computer using photo tray? 

Let's try these troubleshooting steps: 

Step 1: Check the paper, and then reload it

Paper feed issues might result from using ripped, dusty, curled, wrinkled, or bent paper. The quality of the paper can also make a difference. Use these guidelines to help avoid the issue.

• Use only good quality paper that meets printer specifications.

• Store all paper in a dry, cool place. Paper feed issues occur more often in humid environments.

• Do not print on paper that is already printed. The dampness of the ink can cause the paper to stick together.

• Wait for the printer to complete a job or to display a Load Paper in Tray message before you load more paper.

Before you load paper in the paper tray, make sure the paper is neatly stacked and in good condition, and the paper path and tray are free from obstructions.

1. Pull the paper tray toward you to open it.

2. Remove any paper from the paper tray.

3. Remove any severely bent, wrinkled, or torn paper from the stack.

4. Check for obstructions inside the paper tray. Make sure nothing blocks the paper from engaging with the rollers. Even small pieces of paper can cause paper feed issues.

5. With both hands, hold the stack of paper, and then tap the bottom edge of the stack on a flat surface so that the stack is even on all sides.

6. Insert the stack of paper into the paper tray.

7. Push the stack of paper toward the rear of the paper tray until the paper stops, and then gently slide in the paper width guides until they lightly rest against the edges of the paper.

8. Figure: Loading paper in the paper tray

   

9. Push the paper tray forward until it snaps into place.

10. The printer control panel displays the paper size loaded.

    • If the paper size loaded does not match what is displayed, select the paper tray, select your paper size and type, and then touch Done.

    • If the paper size is correct, touch OK.

Try to print. If the issue persists, continue to the next step.

Step 2: Clean the paper tray rollers

Clean the paper tray rollers underneath the printer.

1. Carefully lift the printer and set it on its side.

2. While supporting the printer with one hand, pull the paper tray open to expose the paper rollers underneath the printer.

3. Figure: Rollers underneath the printer

   

4. Lightly dampen a lint-free cloth with distilled water, and then squeeze any excess liquid from the cloth.

5. Press the cloth against the rollers inside the printer, and then rotate the rollers upwards with your fingers. Apply a moderate amount of pressure to remove any dust or dirt buildup.

6. Allow the rollers to dry completely (approximately 10 minutes).

7. Close the paper tray, and then set the printer upright.

Try to print. If the error persists, continue to the next step.

Step 3: Clean the paper feed rollers from inside the ink cartridge access area.

CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE TROUBLESHOOTING

You could refer to printer specs for Paper handling: Click Here

Keep me posted!

Cheers 🙂