Microsoft Photos crashing when you try to print can be frustrating, especially when you need a quick printout. This issue often occurs due to software glitches, outdated drivers, or incorrect settings. Fortunately, there are simple ways to fix it without needing technical expertise.
In this article, we will guide you through easy, step-by-step solutions to stop Microsoft Photos from crashing during printing on Windows 11. Each step is explained clearly so anyone can follow along.
By following these instructions, you can get your printing back on track quickly and avoid further interruptions. Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into the fixes.
These tips will help you understand the problem and apply the best solution efficiently.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks
Before trying the fixes, make sure you have the following:
- Windows 11 Updated: Ensure your system is running the latest Windows updates. Updates often fix bugs that cause software crashes.
- Printer Connected and Working: Confirm your printer is properly connected, turned on, and working with other apps or documents.
- Enough Disk Space: Check that your device has enough free disk space, as low space can cause apps to crash.
- Basic Restart Done: Restart your computer and printer. This simple step can resolve temporary glitches.
Step 1: Update Microsoft Photos App
Sometimes crashes happen because the Photos app is outdated. Updating it can fix bugs and improve stability.
- Open Microsoft Store from the Start menu.
- Click on the Library icon at the bottom left.
- Find Microsoft Photos in the list and click Update if available.
- Wait for the update to finish, then try printing again.
Keeping apps up-to-date ensures you have the latest fixes and features from Microsoft.
Step 2: Reset the Microsoft Photos App
If updating didn’t help, resetting the app can clear corrupted data or settings that cause crashes.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Apps > Installed apps.
- Search for Photos in the list.
- Click the three dots next to Microsoft Photos and select Advanced options.
- Scroll down and click Reset. Confirm if prompted.
- After resetting, open Photos and try printing again.
Resetting removes app cache and restores default settings without deleting your photos.
Step 3: Check and Update Printer Drivers
Outdated or faulty printer drivers can cause printing crashes. Updating drivers ensures smooth communication between Windows and your printer.
- Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Printers section.
- Right-click your printer and choose Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for drivers.
- Follow any prompts to install updates.
- Restart your PC and try printing with Photos again.
If Windows doesn’t find a newer driver, visit your printer manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver manually.
Step 4: Run the Windows Printer Troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in tool that detects and fixes common printer issues automatically.
- Open Settings with Windows + I.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Printer and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to let Windows diagnose and fix problems.
- After completing, try printing from Photos again.
This tool helps resolve issues related to printer connectivity, driver problems, and print spooler errors.
Step 5: Clear the Print Spooler
The print spooler manages print jobs. If it is stuck or corrupted, it can cause apps like Photos to crash when printing.
- Press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter. - Scroll down and find Print Spooler.
- Right-click it and select Stop.
- Open File Explorer and navigate to
C:WindowsSystem32spoolPRINTERS. - Delete all files inside the PRINTERS folder (these are stuck print jobs).
- Go back to Services, right-click Print Spooler, and select Start.
- Try printing from Microsoft Photos again.
Clearing the print queue and restarting the spooler often fixes printing crashes caused by stuck jobs.
Alternative Method: Use Another App to Print
If Microsoft Photos still crashes, you can try opening your images in another app like Paint or the Windows Photo Viewer to print them. This can help you print while you troubleshoot Photos.
Right-click the image file, choose Open with, select Paint or Photos (classic), and print from there.
FAQs
Why does Microsoft Photos crash only when printing?
Printing involves additional processes like communicating with the printer driver and managing print jobs. If any component is faulty or outdated, it can cause the app to crash during printing.
Can reinstalling Microsoft Photos help?
Yes, uninstalling and reinstalling the app can fix deeper issues. However, resetting is usually enough and safer for your data.
Is it safe to delete files in the print spooler folder?
Yes, these are temporary files related to print jobs and deleting them helps clear stuck jobs without harming your system.
Do I need admin rights for these steps?
Yes, some fixes like resetting apps, updating drivers, or clearing spooler files require administrator permissions.
Will updating Windows fix the problem?
Often yes. Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix bugs in system apps like Photos, so keeping Windows updated is important.
When Nothing Works
If you’ve tried all the above steps and Microsoft Photos still crashes when printing, consider these final options:
- Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for personalized help.
- Use Third-Party Photo Apps: Apps like IrfanView or Adobe Lightroom can print images and may be more stable.
- Reset or Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, resetting or reinstalling Windows can fix deep system issues causing app crashes.
Always back up important files before performing major system changes.
Conclusion
Microsoft Photos crashing when printing on Windows 11 is a common problem that can often be fixed with simple steps. Start by updating the app and checking your printer drivers. Resetting the Photos app and clearing the print spooler usually resolves most issues.
Running the Windows troubleshooter is a helpful automated step, and using alternative apps can keep you printing while troubleshooting. If problems persist, seeking official support or advanced fixes may be necessary.
By following these clear and easy steps, you can enjoy hassle-free printing from Microsoft Photos once again.