How to Prevent Smudging Photo Printer Pictures

Ensure you're using Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) ink cartridges in your photo printer or a refilled or remanufactured cartridge that meets the manufacturer's specifications. A cheaper 'universal' ink may not be as smudge-resistant and can also shorten ink cartridge life or even damage the printer's print head.
Use compatible photo paper and printer ink. If you're not using the type of paper recommended for your specific model, the ink may not set or absorb properly. This can lead to smudges in addition to a lower photo quality and colors that aren't true to your original image (see Resources).
Set the prints aside and handle them only by the edges until they're completely dry. Although most images output by good-quality photo printers will be dry as soon as they come out of the printer, try not to stack or store in them in a box immediately just to be sure.
Clear the area where the photos will emerge from the printer if it doesn't have a tray to catch them. If your printer is on your desk, for example, an ejected print may smash or brush against your mousepad or another desk accessory, leading to smudges or scratches.
Store prints in acid-free sleeves to protect them from moisture that can lead to smearing. If you'll be using the images on a scrapbook layout, for example, use archival safe materials and adhesives to create the pages and store them in polypropylene page protectors to preserve your photos from fading and scratches over time.