Amy wrote recently and asked what tool I use for screenshots on my site and in training manuals I have written. I told her I wrote about that five or so years ago, but it may be time to review.
First, what is a screenshot? A screenshot is pretty much defined by its name. It is what you make when you get a picture of your computer screen to use in a document, email or whatever else you may need one for.
For the past many years I have used an application by Tech Smith (techsmith.com) called, "SnagIt" which is an excellent screenshot tool. However, it currently costs $49.95. Those of you who have followed my columns know that money is something I do not easily part with. So that tells you what I think of SnagIt…great application worth the money if you often need a tool like this.
SnagIt has many features not always found in similar programs. You can add watermarks, callouts, create transparent backgrounds, text, draw on graphics, edit photos from other places and more. This is an excellent application, especially for business.
Next, on my list is "Snipping Tool" which is automatically built into Windows 7 and 8. This is a great application for getting a screenshot then saving it and emailing or using it in a document.
To get it running click your start button, type "Snipping" without the quotes and then click "Snipping Tool" which is your first choice.
Do not be alarmed as most likely everything on your screen will go gray. Also, a small "tool" will open. Click on the "New" button to make the colors come back. The graying is what happens when you are getting ready to copy a screenshot or snip it.
To create a screenshot I recommend first clicking on the down arrow by "New" and choosing what shaped area you wish to copy. Your choices are self-explanatory with the possible exception of "Free-form Snip" which means you draw the scissors icon around the screen and it copies what you surround.
Once you snip something the tool box opens with the area you copied. You can save it, copy it to your clipboard, email it, draw or highlight the graphic etc. This is not a full featured screenshot program; however, it does give you the basics.
If you need to keep a screenshot save it to your computer. Make sure when using the snipping tool you first save a shot before you create another. If you do not save it when you grab the next one the first will vanish.
One last item to mention if you want more features that the snipping tool has. It is called "Screenshot Captor" (screenshot-captor.en.softonic.com) and is very positively rated by users.
I will warn you that you need to watch each screen while installing the application. It will try to change your search engine and other things. Make sure you choose "Custom Install" and uncheck everything you see. Nothing there is nefarious but it is pain to change back to the way it was. This application has most of the features SnagIt does but it is free. You must register it during the first 10 days with an email address or it will stop working as it should.
Good luck in your new screenshot career.
