How To Take A Screenshot On Apple
Apple devices offer various methods to capture screenshots. Whether you are using a MacBook, MacBook Air, or iPhone, you can easily take a screenshot using simple keyboard combinations or physical buttons. Below are the different methods to take a screenshot on Apple devices:
Using Keyboard Combinations on MacBook
To take a screenshot on a MacBook, you can use the following keyboard combinations:
- Shift + Command + 3: Press and hold these three keys together to capture the entire screen. If a thumbnail appears in the corner of your screen, you can click it to edit the screenshot or wait for it to save to your desktop.
- Shift + Command + 4: Press and hold these three keys together and then drag the crosshair to select the area of the screen you want to capture. You can also press and hold the Space bar while dragging to move the selection. Release the mouse or trackpad button to take the screenshot. If a thumbnail appears, you can click it to edit the screenshot or wait for it to save to your desktop.
- Shift + Command + 4 + Space bar: Open the window or menu you want to capture, then press and hold these keys together. The pointer will change to a camera icon. Click the window or menu to capture it. If a thumbnail appears, you can click it to edit the screenshot or wait for it to save to your desktop.
Customizing Screenshot Settings
In macOS Mojave or later, you can customize the default location of saved screenshots and set a timer using the Screenshot app. To open the app, press and hold Shift, Command, and 5 keys together. This allows you to change the default location, set a timer, and choose where screenshots are saved. Additionally, you can exclude the window’s shadow from the screenshot by pressing and holding the Option key while clicking.
Other Screenshot Options
Some apps, such as the Apple TV app, may restrict the ability to take screenshots of their windows. However, you can copy a screenshot to the Clipboard by pressing and holding the Control key while taking the screenshot. This allows you to paste the screenshot elsewhere or use Universal Clipboard to paste it on another Apple device.
Using Physical Buttons on iPhone
For iPhone users, taking a screenshot involves using the physical buttons on the device:
- iPhone X or later: Press the side button and the volume up button simultaneously, then quickly release both buttons. A thumbnail of the screenshot will appear in the lower-left corner of the screen.
- iPhone 8 or earlier: Press the side button and the Home button at the same time, then quickly release both buttons. A thumbnail of the screenshot will appear in the lower-left corner of the screen.
FAQs
1. Can I take a screenshot without the thumbnail appearing?
Unfortunately, the appearance of the thumbnail after taking a screenshot is a default behavior on Apple devices. However, you can quickly swipe left to dismiss the thumbnail if you do not wish to interact with it.
2. How can I change the default location for saved screenshots?
If you are using macOS Mojave or later, you can change the default location for saved screenshots by accessing the Options menu in the Screenshot app. This allows you to customize the storage location according to your preferences.
3. Are there limitations to taking screenshots in certain apps?
Yes, some apps, such as the Apple TV app, may prevent users from taking screenshots of their windows. This is a security measure implemented by the app developers to protect copyrighted content.
4. Can I capture a specific window or menu on my MacBook?
Yes, you can capture a specific window or menu on your MacBook by using the Shift + Command + 4 + Space bar keyboard combination. This allows you to select the desired window or menu for the screenshot.
5. Is it possible to set a timer for taking screenshots on a MacBook?
Yes, if you are using macOS Mojave or later, you can set a timer for taking screenshots using the Screenshot app. This feature provides flexibility in capturing the screen at a specific time.
6. Can I take a screenshot on my MacBook without having to edit it?
Absolutely, you can take a screenshot on your MacBook without the need to edit it. Once you have captured the screenshot, it will automatically save to your desktop without requiring any further input.