← All guides
Easy · 4 minSetup & driversBrother

Print on photo paper without smears

Smudged or smeared photos usually mean the paper type in the dialog doesn't match the paper loaded. The printer lays down different ink for photo paper.

01 · Identify — does this match what you see?

  • Ink smears or stays wet on photos
  • Colours look flat on photo paper
  • Paper jams in photo sheets

02 · Resolve — follow in order

  1. 1

    Use Brother-recommended photo paper or a known-compatible brand; cheap paper repels ink.

  2. 2

    Load photo paper glossy side down, no more than 20 sheets, in the tray.

  3. 3

    In the print dialog, set Paper Type to the exact photo paper loaded (Glossy, Mat, etc.).

  4. 4

    Set Quality to “High” or “Photo” — standard quality under-inks photo paper.

  5. 5

    Let prints dry for a minute face-up before stacking; don't touch the glossy surface.

Pro tip

Inkjet photo paper has a printable side and a back. If ink rubs off, the paper is upside down — flip the whole stack and reprint.

03 · Applies to

MFC-J995DWMFC-J1010DWMFC-J1205W

Related fixes