How to Print Photos From a DVD

Print digital pictures to view them the old-fashioned way.

Digital photos on a DVD can last up to 100 years because they're not subject to deterioration. They last as long as the DVD does, and the DVD allows you to store over 15,000 pictures. Storing them this way keeps them safe and allows you to make copies to share with family and friends. Not everyone has a computer, however, so at some point it will be necessary to print them out.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with DVD drive
• 8.5-inch x 11-inch photo paper

Instructions

Pre-Installed Software

1. Insert the DVD into the drive.

2. Go to Start and locate the photo software that was installed with the printer. For example, if you have an HP printer, look in "All Programs > HP > HP Photosmart Essential."

3. Wait while your folders are scanned. When it's done, click "Get Images" and "From Folder."

4. Scroll to the top and expand "My Computer." Select the DVD where the pictures are located, usually the "D:" drive.

5. Click "OK" and the images will be cataloged and organized. If the disc is unreadable, you may hear loud noises coming from the drive. If this happens, click "Stop Scanning" and remove the disc. Clean it if it's dirty, or replace it if there are scratches or cracks on the readable side.

6. Place a check beside each picture and go to the "Print" tab above.

7. Adjust the options to your liking--for example, change "Size and Quantity" to adjust the size of the printout, or choose a custom sheet.

8. Turn on the printer and place the photo paper in shiny side up. Go back to the photo program and click "Print."

Without Photo Software

1. Insert the DVD and go to "My Computer" or "Computer" depending on the operating system.

2. Double-click the "D:" drive. The actual drive letter may vary if you have multiple drives in your system.

3. Go to "Edit" and "Select All."

4. Right-click on any of the pictures and click "Print." The printer should be turned on with the photo paper in place.

Tips & Warnings

• If the photos were taken professionally, check your contract to see if you were given rights to them. Usually, if you've receive a DVD with the pictures you're given rights to print, but it's necessary to confirm this to avoid copyright issues.

References

• HP: Archive Photos to DVD
• HP: Choose the Right Paper for Your HP Photo Printer

Resources

• HP: All the Ways to Print Photos