How to print Instax photos from your Nintendo Switch

I've been playing a lot of Pokémon Legends Z-A lately, and I love getting to take cute snaps of my Pokémon using the photo mode. But...It gets even better than this. I discovered that you can turn photos captured on your Nintendo Switch 2 console into real-life physical prints in a matter of minutes.

To do this, you'll need a Nintendo Switch (1st or 2nd gen) console, a smartphone to download the compatible apps, and a portable smartphone printer. Instax let me test out its Mario-themed mini link 3 for a few weeks, so this is the one I'll be using to explain the process.

In simple terms, you basically need to transfer images from your Switch console to your smartphone, and then use the necessary apps to send the images over to your printer of choice. Take a look at the video I put together below for a demonstration using the Switch 2.

How to print photos from a Switch 2

For Switch 1 owners, follow the instructions at the bottom of this guide as the process is slightly different and requires a QR code.

While you can technically use any smartphone printer with app control or Bluetooth for this process, I personally love using Instax mini film. It's the perfect size for displaying on a pinboard or for sharing with others, and the quality feels premium, too.

Have you managed to take any cool photos using your Nintendo Switch? Let me know in the comments below. I've recently been sifting through entries for the Virtual Photography awards 2025, and I'm blown away by some of the talent on display. Keep a copy of your favourite shots and consider entering them next year.