Mac users often need to capture screenshots to save, share, or document information displayed on their screens. Whether it’s capturing a funny moment from a video, preserving an error message for tech support, or saving an important document, knowing how to print screen shot on Mac can be incredibly useful. In this blog post, we will explore multiple methods to take screenshots on a Mac, including built-in tools and third-party applications. We will also discuss the pros and cons of each method, common issues users may encounter, and provide recommendations for the best screenshot practices on a Mac.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
To capture screenshots on a Mac, you will need a Mac computer running macOS, which comes installed with built-in screenshot tools. Optionally, you may choose to download and install third-party screenshot applications from the Mac App Store or other sources for additional features and customization options. However, for most users, the built-in tools should be sufficient for their screenshot needs.
What Requires Your Focus?
When capturing screenshots on a Mac, there are a few aspects you should pay attention to:
1. The specific area or window you want to capture: Determine whether you want to capture the entire screen, a specific portion of the screen, or a particular window.
2. Keyboard shortcuts: Memorize or familiarize yourself with the keyboard shortcuts associated with the built-in screenshot tools or any third-party applications you choose to use.
3. File formats and save locations: Decide on the file format (e.g., PNG, JPEG, PDF) and the default save location for your screenshots.
4. Annotation and editing tools: Familiarize yourself with the available annotation and editing options offered by the screenshot tools you use.
Now that we have a clear understanding of what’s needed and what requires our focus, let’s explore four different methods to print a screen shot on a Mac.
Method 1. How to Capture Screenshots Using the Built-In Tools
To capture screenshots using the built-in tools on a Mac, follow these steps:
1. Press the Command (⌘) + Shift (⇧) + 3 keys simultaneously to capture the entire screen. The screenshot will be automatically saved to your desktop.
2. Press the Command (⌘) + Shift (⇧) + 4 keys simultaneously to activate the screenshot selection tool. The cursor will change to a crosshair. Click and drag to select the desired area of the screen. Release the mouse button to capture the screenshot. It will be automatically saved to your desktop.
3. Press the Command (⌘) + Shift (⇧) + 4 keys, followed by the Spacebar. The cursor will change to a camera icon. Move the camera icon over the window you want to capture and click to capture the screenshot. It will be automatically saved to your desktop.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Easy and quick access to built-in tools without any additional downloads. | 1. Limited editing and annotation options compared to third-party applications. |
| 2. Multiple capture options available, including capturing the entire screen, specific portions, or windows. | 2. No control over file format and save location; screenshots are saved to the desktop by default. |
| 3. Convenient keyboard shortcuts for quick and efficient capturing. | 3. Lack of advanced features like timed captures or scrolling screenshots found in some third-party applications. |
Method 2. How to Capture Screenshots Using the Preview App
Another built-in option for capturing screenshots on a Mac is the Preview app. This method allows for additional editing and annotation options compared to the basic tools discussed in Method 1. Here’s how to use it:
1. Open the Preview app from your Applications folder or by searching for it using Spotlight.
2. Once Preview is open, click on "File" in the menu bar and select "Take Screenshot."
3. In the options menu that appears, choose between capturing the entire screen, a specific portion of the screen, or a window.
4. After selecting the desired capture method, follow the on-screen instructions to capture the screenshot. It will be opened in a new Preview window.
5. From the Preview window, you can use the editing and annotation tools to make adjustments to the screenshot. Annotations include shapes, text, signatures, and more.
6. Once you’re done editing, click "File" in the menu bar and select "Save" to save the screenshot in your preferred format and location.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Additional editing and annotation options compared to the basic screenshot tools. | 1. Requires opening a separate application (Preview) to capture and edit screenshots. |
| 2. Full control over file format and save location. | 2. Slower process compared to the keyboard shortcuts offered by the basic tools. |
| 3. Ability to make advanced edits and annotations, including shapes, text, and more. | 3. No timed capture or scrolling screenshot options available. |
Method 3. How to Capture Screenshots Using Third-Party Applications
In addition to the built-in tools, there are various third-party applications available for capturing screenshots on a Mac. These applications often provide more advanced features and customization options. Here’s how to capture screenshots using a popular third-party application called Snagit:
1. Download and install Snagit from the Mac App Store or the developer’s website.
2. Open Snagit and familiarize yourself with the interface and available capture options.
3. Use the tools provided by Snagit to select the desired capture method, whether it’s the entire screen, specific portions, or windows.
4. Customize any additional settings, such as the file format, save location, and any specific editing or annotation preferences.
5. Once everything is set up to your liking, use the designated keyboard shortcut or click the capture button within the application to capture the screenshot.
6. The screenshot will be automatically saved according to your settings, and you can further edit and annotate it using the features provided by Snagit.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Advanced features and customization options not available in the built-in tools. | 1. Requires downloading and installing a separate application, which may take up storage space. |
| 2. More control over file formats, save locations, and output settings. | 2. Learning curve for navigating the interface and mastering the application’s features. |
| 3. Additional options like timed captures, scrolling screenshots, and more. | 3. Some third-party applications may have a cost associated with them. |
Method 4. How to Capture Screenshots Using Online Tools and Services
If you prefer not to download any applications or software, there are also online tools and services available for capturing screenshots on a Mac. One popular option is Lightshot. Here’s how you can use it:
1. Open your web browser and search for Lightshot or visit the official website.
2. From the Lightshot website, click on the "Download" button to download and install the Lightshot extension for your browser.
3. Once the installation is complete, click on the Lightshot icon in your browser’s toolbar to activate the screenshot tool.
4. Use the Lightshot tool to select the desired capture method, whether it’s the entire screen, specific portions, or windows.
5. After capturing the screenshot, Lightshot will provide you with various options for saving, editing, and sharing the screenshot.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. No need to download or install additional applications or software. | 1. Requires an active internet connection to use online tools and services. |
| 2. Can be accessed from any device with a web browser. | 2. Limited control over file format and save location. |
| 3. Offers options for saving, editing, and sharing screenshots. | 3. Potential privacy concerns when using online services. |
Why Can’t I Capture Screenshots on Mac?
1. Mac User Account Permissions: Sometimes, certain user account permissions can prevent capturing screenshots. To fix this, you can try creating a new user account or adjusting the permissions of your current account.
2. Screenshots Blocked by Applications: Some applications, especially those related to media content protection, might block screenshots from being captured. In such cases, you can try disabling or exiting the application temporarily to take the screenshot.
3. Keyboard Shortcut Conflicts: If the keyboard shortcuts for capturing screenshots clash with other applications or custom settings, the screenshot functionality may not work. Changing the keyboard shortcuts to less common combinations can resolve this issue.
Pros:
1. Easy and straightforward process to capture screenshots using built-in tools.
2. No additional installations or downloads required.
3. Multiple capture options available, including capturing the entire screen, specific portions, or windows.
Cons:
1. Some user account permissions may prevent capturing screenshots.
2. Certain applications can block or restrict screenshot capturing.
3. Keyboard shortcuts conflicts may disable the screenshot functionality.
Implications and Recommendations
When capturing screenshots on a Mac, it is essential to consider the following implications and recommendations:
1. Privacy and Security: Be mindful of the content you capture and share as screenshots may contain sensitive information. Avoid capturing and sharing screenshots that may compromise your privacy or security.
2. Copyright and Fair Use: Respect copyright laws and fair use practices when capturing and sharing screenshots of copyrighted material. Be aware of any restrictions or permissions required before capturing and sharing screenshots of others’ work.
3. Editing and Annotation: Take advantage of the editing and annotation features available in the tools you use. Adding highlights, arrows, or text can help clarify information or draw attention to specific points in your screenshots.
4. File Format and Compression: Consider the file format and compression options when saving screenshots. High-quality formats like PNG or TIFF may be suitable for detailed screenshots, while JPEG or PDF may be more appropriate for sharing or web purposes.
5. Backup and Organization: Develop a system for organizing and backing up your captured screenshots. Create dedicated folders or use cloud storage services to ensure easy access and prevent loss of important screenshots.
5 FAQs about Capturing Screenshots on Mac
Q1: Can I capture screenshots of specific menus or dropdowns on a Mac?
A1: Yes, you can capture screenshots of specific menus or dropdowns by following these steps:
1. Press Command (⌘) + Shift (⇧) + 4 keys simultaneously to activate the screenshot selection tool.
2. Press the Spacebar to switch the cursor to a camera icon.
3. Move the camera icon over the desired menu or dropdown and click to capture the screenshot.
Q2: Can I schedule timed captures for screenshots on a Mac?
A2: Unfortunately, the built-in tools on a Mac do not offer a scheduling feature for timed captures. However, some third-party applications, like Snagit, provide this functionality for more advanced screenshot capturing.
Q3: How can I take scrolling screenshots on a Mac?
A3: The built-in screenshot tools on a Mac do not have a native option for capturing scrolling screenshots. To capture scrolling screenshots, you can use third-party applications like Snagit, which offer this feature.
Q4: Can I change the default save location for screenshots on a Mac?
A4: Yes, you can change the default save location for screenshots on a Mac by following these steps:
1. Use the Command (⌘) + Shift (⇧) + 5 keys to open the screenshot toolbar.
2. Click on "Options" in the toolbar.
3. Under "Save to," select the desired save location from the drop-down menu.
Q5: How can I take screenshots of the Touch Bar on a MacBook Pro?
A5: To capture screenshots of the Touch Bar on a MacBook Pro, follow these steps:
1. Press Command (⌘) + Shift (⇧) + 6 keys simultaneously.
2. The screenshot will be automatically saved to your desktop.
Final Words
Knowing how to capture screenshots on a Mac is an essential skill that can greatly enhance your productivity and communication. Whether it’s for work, personal projects, or troubleshooting, being able to capture and share screenshots efficiently can save time and convey information effectively. By familiarizing yourself with the built-in tools and exploring third-party applications, you can find the method that best suits your needs. Remember to consider privacy and copyright implications, and organize and back up your screenshots for easy access. With these tips and recommendations, you’ll be a screenshot pro on your Mac in no time.