Change Mac Screenshot Folder: Complete Guide
The keyboard shortcut Command + Shift + 4 is probably the one that many Mac users use most frequently every day. After all, we quite often need to create screenshots for instructions, presentations, or other purposes.
When you've created a screenshot this way (or with Command + Shift + 3), it's usually saved directly on your Mac desktop. This might seem practical at first glance because you can see it right away and use it immediately.
But if you like to keep things organized, you might prefer the option to create a folder where screenshots are saved. And that's exactly where this guide comes in, because here you'll learn how to change the save location for screenshots.
Step-by-Step Guide
To change the save location for screenshots on Mac, follow these steps:
- Press Command + Shift + 5
- The screenshot interface will open
- In this toolbar, there's an "Options" section
- Click this button and select different save locations
- Under "Other Location..." you can also choose a custom folder
Once you've selected a new destination folder here, all screenshots and screen recordings will be saved there in the future.
Tip: If you want to undo the selection at some point, follow the same steps and reactivate the desktop as the destination.
Clean Up Desktop with Stacks Feature
By the way, if you're just looking for a way to clean up your desktop, you can check out the Desktop Stacks feature in macOS:
On your Mac, you can use the Desktop Stacks feature to group your files on the desktop clearly. As soon as you save a file on the desktop, it automatically sorts itself into the appropriate stack.
You activate the Stacks feature by right-clicking on the desktop background and selecting "Use Stacks".
Bonus: All Mac Screenshot Keyboard Shortcuts
If you work a lot with screenshots, the following keyboard shortcuts might help you:
| Keyboard Shortcut | Function |
|---|---|
| Command + Shift + 3 | Creates a screenshot of the entire screen (two files for two screens) |
| Command + Shift + 4 | Provides a selection box for a specific area |
| Command + Shift + 4 + Space | Allows clicking on a window for a screenshot |
| Command + Shift + Control + 4 | Screenshot selection, but the screenshot goes to the clipboard |
| Command + Shift + 5 | Opens the advanced screenshot interface with all options |
| Command + Shift + 6 | Takes a screenshot of the Touch Bar (on MacBook models with Touch Bar) |
FAQ About Screenshot Folder on Mac
How do I change the default folder for screenshots on Mac?
Press Command + Shift + 5, click on "Options" and select a new save location. Under "Other Location" you can also choose a custom folder.
What keyboard shortcuts are there for screenshots on Mac?
Command + Shift + 3 for the entire screen, Command + Shift + 4 for a selection, Command + Shift + 5 for advanced options, and Command + Shift + 6 for the Touch Bar.
How can I clean up my Mac desktop?
Use the Stacks feature: Right-click on the desktop and select "Use Stacks". Files will be automatically grouped by type.