How to Capture Screens on an IMAC

Skitch

The Macintosh OSX Leopard operating system comes with a Grab utility, which is a nifty tool that allows you to capture the computer screen, an open screen window or a defined screen region. It is pretty easy to use and is great for capturing websites. However, for eHow articles I like to add text and arrows to my images to allow the reader to fully understand what I am writing about. There is a new application called Skitch, which allows you to capture the screen and add colorful text and objects easily to your captured images. Skitch is currently offering a free beta version that I have found to be bug-free so far. Download your free version from the link in Resources below and follow these easy steps to add annotated images to your eHow articles.

Things You'll Need

• Skitch Beta Version
• Macintosh OSX Version 10.3 or higher

Instructions

1. 

   Set your capture options. Skitch allows you to capture the whole screen, a definable region and even single frames from a movie. You can select the type of capture you want from the capture menu and then use the SNAP to repeat the selected option. In this case I have just captured an image from I-Photo.

2. 

   Once you have defined your options, use the SNAP button to capture the area. The Skitch screen will disappear and allow you to select an area or frame on your screen if you chose that option. You can even capture Skitch itself if you select that option under CAPTURE.

3. 

   Once you have captured your image, it just takes seconds to add some text. Click the TEXT tool on the left, position your cursor and start typing. You can change the text attributes and color easily from the tool panel at the right. If you don't like the text position, just use the selection tool and move it to where you want it on the screen. You can save your image to a variety of formats including JPEG, TIFF and PNG. Save your image by selecting the "drag" box at the bottom. The capture will shrink to thumbnail size and you can drag it to any folder or location.

4. 

   You can also add arrows and objects easily with Skitch. Just select the rectangular or oval object, position your cursor and move your cursor to change the size of the object. You can add arrows, rectangles and ovals or draw your own with the pen tools and eraser tools. It easy to create screen captures and annotate them quickly to add clarity and graphics to your eHow articles.

Tips & Warnings

• Skitch also allows you to send your images via Bluetooth or to a web address.

• Skitch also allows you to integrate your captured images into an I Photo project.

Resources

• Download Skitch Software