Walk into almost any Target location in the United States, and you will find a specific section dedicated to printing and photo services. For customers looking to preserve memories or finalize a last-minute presentation, the availability of a reliable photo kiosk is a common point of inquiry. The short answer is yes; Target does indeed offer photo kiosk services through a partnership with Shutterfly, allowing guests to upload and print digital photos directly from their smartphones or cameras.
How the Target Photo Kiosk Works
The process is designed for efficiency and simplicity, eliminating the need for a home printer or professional lab. Customers begin by locating the Shutterfly kiosk, which is usually situated in the printing section near the front of the store. Using the touch screen interface, you select the photos you want to print, apply any desired filters or cropping, and choose the finish and size. Once the order is confirmed, the kiosk prints the photos on the spot, typically in under a minute, provided the images have already been uploaded to the Shutterfly platform.
Uploading Photos Before You Arrive
To save time in the store, the most effective method is to upload your photos to the Shutterfly website or mobile app before heading to Target. This step allows you to curate your selection, delete unwanted shots, and adjust the layout while using Wi-Fi at home or work. When you arrive at the store, you simply log into your existing Shutterfly account at the kiosk, and your saved images are ready to print immediately. This login step is crucial, as it links your digital cart to the physical terminal and ensures your files are accessible without needing to transfer them on-site.
Available Options and Specifications
Target’s photo kiosk service does not offer the same level of customization as a dedicated standalone photolab, but it covers the essential needs for most consumers. You can typically choose from standard print sizes, ranging from wallet-sized prints to larger formats suitable for framing. The default finish is usually glossy, which provides vibrant color and durability, though matte options may be available depending on the specific terminal model. It is important to note that the kiosks generally do not support advanced features like double-sided printing or the creation of photo books, focusing instead on straightforward single-image prints.
Feature | Availability at Target Kiosk
Color Prints | Yes
Black and White Prints | Usually Not Available
Mobile App Upload | Required for Best Experience
Photo Book Creation | No
Double-Sided Printing | No
Cost and Payment Information
Pricing at the Target photo kiosk is competitive and follows a straightforward per-print model, which is often cheaper than impulse-buy merchandise found in adjacent aisles. Prices vary slightly depending on the size of the print and the current promotions running in the store, but they generally align with standard drugstore rates. Payment is handled digitally through the kiosk interface, accepting major credit cards and mobile wallet options like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Cash is usually not accepted at the kiosk terminal, so having a card or digital payment method ready is necessary to complete the transaction.
Limitations and Reliability Concerns
While the service is convenient, it is not without its potential drawbacks that shoppers should manage expectations around. Because the kiosk relies on a physical printer, technical issues such as paper jams or connectivity errors can occur, particularly during peak hours or if the machine has not been restocked recently. Furthermore, the photo selection is limited to what you have already uploaded; you cannot browse a stock photography library or print directly from a memory card on the spot. If you require a specific crop or exact color calibration, the results may vary slightly compared to a professional lab setup.
