Printing tips please?

[buzzlghtyr]

Hello all

I need to print out some photos as xmas gifts for mom and the in-laws. I would like to get the most out of my pictures. Most of the stuff I have is in nef format and I am using Lightroom. I do have PS3 on my mac, but if I don't have to mess with it, that is fine.

Basically, what kind of tips do you all have? I plan on using CVS / Walgreens / Sams type places cause I mostly just need 3 x 5 or 4 x 6 prints, which I will then cut down to fit. I also might get some larger prints done but they are for family and don't have to be perfect.

Some questions..
Should I leave the resolution when I export to jpg at the same size as the nef? Or should I downsize? Should I make them a tad brighter? Tad darker?

I know I am running out of time, but I thought I would do a test run of like 10 pics to get a feel on how they print out from the shop and perhaps adjust from there.

Thanks for any input guys.

[fstops]

don't go to any of the places you mentioned. they don't calibrate their machines very often and when they do it's minimal. use professional lab or even camera store lab such as wolf camera or ritzs. these place can handle all formats. hope this helps. wl.