Kodak Dock Era photo printer in yellow and black, ready for instant 4x6 photo printing.

How to Use the Kodak Dock Era Printer | Print 4x6 Photos from Your Phone

September 27, 20253 min read

How to Use the Kodak Dock Era Printer

The Kodak Dock Era is a compact photo printer designed to make printing photos from your phone simple and convenient. Whether you’re at home, at an event, or on the go, this printer lets you create durable, high-quality prints in just a few minutes.


Getting Started

Kodak Dock Era photo printer in yellow and black, ready for instant 4x6 photo printing.

Setting up the Kodak Dock Era is quick:

  1. Plug in the printer — connect the power cord to both the printer and a wall outlet.

  2. Insert the cartridge — slide the Kodak photo cartridge into the side of the printer until it clicks.

  3. Load the paper — place the photo paper into the cassette with the glossy side facing up, avoiding fingerprints on the surface.

  4. Insert the cassette — open the cassette cover and push the paper tray in until it locks into place.

Once loaded, the printer is ready to use.


Printing Options

There are two main ways to print:

Dock and Print Instantly

  • Place your smartphone on the docking pin located on top of the printer.

  • The printer will connect directly to your phone and launch the KODAK Photo Printer app for printing.

  • Each print takes about one minute.

This option is ideal if you want a quick, no-fuss print.

Print Wirelessly with the App

  • Download the KODAK Photo Printer app:

  • Turn on Bluetooth on your phone and power up the printer.

  • Open the app, tap the Bluetooth icon, and select your printer.

  • Choose a photo from your gallery.

  • Use the app’s tools to apply filters, add borders, or create collages.

  • Tap print inside the app, or press the print button on the printer to begin.

This option is perfect for customizing your photos before printing.


Why the Prints Stand Out

The Kodak Dock Era uses 4PASS technology, which prints in multiple layers and adds a protective coating. This process produces vivid colors while making the prints water-resistant and long-lasting.

Some models also allow you to charge your phone while it’s docked, giving the printer extra convenience.


Tips for Best Results

  • Always load paper with the shiny side up.

  • Handle photo paper by the edges to avoid smudges.

  • Wait until printing is complete before removing your photo.

  • For multiple photos, use the app to select and queue them in advance.

Mania Tip

Since the Kodak Dock Era prints on 4x6 photo paper, the size is perfect for junk journaling. Try creating a photo collage before you print — either in the KODAK Photo Printer app or with your phone’s native photo editor — so you can fit several smaller images onto one sheet. Once printed, you can cut them out and layer them into your journals while still enjoying the high-quality finish of a full print.


The Kodak Dock Era is designed to make photo printing easy, whether you want an instant snapshot or a fully customized print. With just a few steps, you’ll have a high-quality 4x6 photo ready to share, display, or use in your creative projects.

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