Printing on printer paper

Select Photo Paper in the printer’s own Printer Properties, because Word’s standard print screen does not provide a universal photo-paper option.

Select photo paper

1. Load compatible photo paper into the printer, using the tray and paper orientation specified by the printer manufacturer.
2. In Word, select File > Print.
3. Under Printer, select the intended physical printer—not Microsoft Print to PDF.
4. Select Printer Properties.
5. Look for a setting named Paper Type, Media Type, Media, or similar.
6. Select the applicable option, such as Photo Paper, Glossy Photo Paper, or Matte Photo Paper.
7. Also select the correct paper size—for example, 4 × 6 inches, Letter, or A4—and the desired print quality.
8. Select OK, check Word’s print preview, and then select Print.

The names and available choices in Printer Properties depend on the printer and its driver, so they differ between manufacturers and models.^1^

If Photo Paper is not listed

The installed driver may not be exposing the printer’s full settings:

1. Download and install the current full-feature driver or printing software for the exact printer model from its manufacturer.
2. Restart Word, then return to File > Print > Printer Properties.
3. If the option remains unavailable, check whether that printer supports the specific photo-paper type and size in the manufacturer’s instructions.

Microsoft also recommends updating the printer driver when printer settings are hidden. On Windows 11, the printer troubleshooter is available under Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners > your printer > More devices and printer settings, then right-click the printer and select Troubleshoot.^2^

References

1. [Microsoft 365](https://support.microsoft.com/word/print-in-black-and-white)
2. My Print button and some printer settings aren't available | Microsoft Support