The cost of a professionally printed photo is pretty cheap. For most people it is cheaper to have their photos printed professionally when they want one printed. You have to print a lot of photos per month to make the cost of a printer worth it. (I suspect beyond the duty cycle rating of cheap printers). I have a printer (laser!) anyway because while I don't print often, when I do I want it now, without having to get the kids ready and drive to a professional printer.