Photographs have come a long way since the first Kodak pictures were taken in the 1880s. The First World War sparked the beginning of photojournalism. And later, the Polaroid (specifically Model 95) became famous for capturing instant images. By the late 1970s, “point and shoot” cameras had made their debut. They were termed “smart cameras” due to their ability to make image control decisions on their own. The age of digital began in the late 1980s. By 1991, Kodak had manufactured the first digital camera capable of storing digital media instead of film.

In 2007, global shipments of digital cameras reached 131 million units. That’s a lot of picture taking! And as the demand for digital cameras increase, so do demands for digital printers and photo paper.

It’s easy enough to get photos printed at the local Walgreens, Wal-Mart, or grocery store. But as cameras, phones, computers and televisions continue to converge, the convenient at home printers will likely gain in popularity.

Because digital cameras have already flooded the market, you can get one for a relatively good price (usually with bonus incentives). I’ve noticed that many stores are using photo printers as incentives to drive digital camera sales. Just the other day I saw an online promotion for “a free digital photo printer with purchase of digital camera.” After reading over the “terms and conditions” I learned it was only free after your mail-in rebate came back (and for some reason, I never get rebates back!).

If you’re sick of relying on stores and memory sticks to print your pictures, I suggest buying an HP Photosmart A636 Compact Photo Printer. You can get one from BiggestBook.com. Actually, this past weekend, at Indoff’s National Sales Meeting, a few Indoff Partners had the opportunity to win one of these printers from a drawing, sponsored by United Stationers (great idea!). I have to admit, I’m a bit jealous that I didn’t get to enter. After doing a little research, I’ve found that the HP Photosmart A636 Photo Printer has received great reviews. It’s also super compact and has a “magic touch” screen (also known as touch screen capabilities), which allows for many design options. Just remember to stop back at Next Day Office Supplies for any additional high quality photographic paper.