SELPHY CP1500: Everyday Instant Photo Printing Guide
By CameraMall | Published: 2026-11-02
Category: How-to Guides
Set up the Canon SELPHY CP1500 and print 4x6 photos at home or at events. Follow these steps for paper loading, card printing, and quick tips to avoid smudges and jams.
Quick answer
To print with the Canon SELPHY CP1500, load the included ink and paper set, insert your memory card or connect a computer, choose a 4x6 postcard size, and send the print. Keep the paper tray clean and use only SELPHY-compatible paper to avoid jams.
Why the CP1500 suits home and event printing
The CP1500 is a compact photo printer that supports four paper sizes, including small adhesive stickers. That flexibility makes it useful for scrapbooking at home or handing out prints at a party. Because it prints from a memory card, USB flash drive, or computer connection, you can set it up on a table without a full computer station.
A key trade-off is that the CP1500 uses dye-sublimation printing with dedicated ink and paper sets, not generic office paper. You must match the paper size to the tray and the ink set to the paper count. If you plan to print stickers, you need the corresponding sticker paper set, which is sold separately from the included 4x6 postcard set.
When to choose a different printer
If you need borderless prints larger than 4x6 or want to print on plain paper, the CP1500 is not the right tool. It is designed for photo-sized output. For high-volume event printing, keep in mind that each print takes time and the ink and paper sets have a fixed yield. Plan your paper supply based on the number of guests, and test one print before the event to confirm color and fit.
Step-by-step SELPHY CP1500 printing
- Load the ink and paper set: Open the ink cassette compartment and insert the ink cassette from the included set until it clicks. Then open the paper tray, load the 4x6 paper with the glossy side up, and slide the tray into the printer. Common mistake: forcing the ink cassette in the wrong orientation can damage the printer. Check that the cassette label faces the correct direction. Always use a fresh ink and paper set of the same size; mixing sizes can cause jams.
- Choose your print source: Insert a memory card into the slot or connect a USB flash drive to the front port. For computer printing, connect via USB and install the driver. The CP1500 does not support Wi-Fi directly, so use a cable or card. Common mistake: unplugging a USB drive while the printer is reading it can corrupt files. Wait for the access light to stop blinking. Keep a dedicated USB drive formatted in FAT32 for event printing to avoid compatibility issues.
- Select the paper size and print: On the printer's LCD, navigate to the print menu and select the 4x6 postcard size. Choose your image and confirm. For sticker printing, change the paper size setting to match the sticker paper you loaded. Common mistake: leaving the paper size on the default when using sticker paper will misalign the print. Always verify the size on the screen before pressing print. Print a single test photo before an event to confirm color and alignment.
- Maintain the printer between uses: After printing, remove the paper tray and store unused paper flat in its original packaging to prevent curling. Wipe the paper feed roller with a dry, lint-free cloth if you notice repeated jams. Common mistake: leaving paper in the tray for weeks can attract dust and cause smudges. Store the ink cassette in a cool, dry place. Keep the printer covered when not in use to reduce dust buildup.
Product facts
- Canon SELPHY CP1500 Compact Photo Printer: The SELPHY CP1500 supports four paper sizes, including small adhesive stickers, and includes an ink and paper set for 4x6 postcard prints. You can start printing 4x6 photos right away, but sticker printing requires a separate compatible paper set.
Canon SELPHY CP1500 Compact Photo Printer
