![In 2024, Change Screenshot Saving Location on Mac](https://www.lifewire.com/thmb/oKncwoTVFBBV6ytT92nLRJt-PSI=/400x300/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/social-media-text-588a94263df78caebc620f05.jpg)
In 2024, Change Screenshot Saving Location on Mac
![](/images/site-logo.png)
Change Screenshot Saving Location on Mac
How to Change the Destination Where Screenshots are Saved on your Mac
Max Wales
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
Whenever you take a screenshot on a Mac computer, a file is saved to the desktop by default. Most Mac users never have the need to change this setting, because they can always move the file to a folder where they want to store it. On the other hand, creating a lot of screenshots every day can make a chaos on your desktop. Luckily changing the destination where your screenshots are saved is a simple process that lets you decide where your images will be stored.
Here’s how you can change the location where the screenshots you take using the keyboard shortcuts will be saved.
The All-in-One Screen Recorder & Video Editor
- Record desktop screen, voiceover, and webcam simultaneously
- Edit recorded clips quickly with a wide range of professional tools
- Built-in plentiful templates and effects
- Export to MP4, MOV, MKV, GIF and multiple formats
For Win 7 or later (64-bit)
For macOS 10.12 or later
Secure Download
Part 1: How to Save Screenshots to a Specific Folder on Mac
Changing the folder where you store your screenshots is not an irreversible process, which means that you can reset the destination where the files are saved to Desktop at any point. Do not delete the new folder, because your Mac may not be able to take screenshots, afterward. The process described below is the only way you can delete a folder or add a new destination for your screenshots, and failing to comply with it may cause your Mac to malfunction.
Create a new folder on the desired location on your hard drive, and then launch Terminal, by typing Terminal in the Search Box and clicking on its icon. Once the app is open, you should insert the following command into the Terminal window:
defaults write com.apple.screencapture location
Then enter a space at the end after ‘location’.
The next step is to add the new location at which screenshots will be saved and you can do this by simply dragging the folder you created into Terminal and adding it at the end of the command you just entered. A path is created and the command line should now contain the folder’s unique location and it should look like this:
defaults write com.apple.screencapture location /Users/username/Screenshots
To execute the command you have to press Enter. After Terminal finishes running the command, its window will appear on the screen again. You should proceed to confirm the changes you’ve just made by resetting the User Interface on your computer. In order to do so, you’ll have to insert this command below the one you previously entered:
killall SystemUIServer
Hit Enter once more to confirm the changes and run the new command. Close Terminal app by clicking on the Terminal menu and selecting the Quick Terminal option. The default location where the screenshots are saved on your Mac is now changed and every time you take a screenshot using the Command + Shift + 3 shortcut the file will be saved at the new location. If for whatever reason you want to make the Desktop once again the destination where the screenshots on your computer will be saved here’s how you can do it.
Part 2: How to Change the Screenshot Save Location Back to Desktop
The process of changing the default screenshot save location back to Desktop is nearly identical to the process we just described. You just have to open the Terminal app and insert the following command into the prompt.
defaults write com.apple.screen capture location /Users/Username/Desktop/
Make sure that your username is properly written, and then press Enter to run the command. Now you only have to reset the UI so it can recognize the changes you’ve made, and you can do it by inserting the killall SystemUIServer command into the Terminal window and pressing Enter to execute it.
Don’t forget that deleting the folder you use as a default location for storing screenshots should only be done using the process we just described in the Terminal application, since all other methods may cause unnecessary trouble.
Max Wales
Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Max Wales
Max Wales
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
Whenever you take a screenshot on a Mac computer, a file is saved to the desktop by default. Most Mac users never have the need to change this setting, because they can always move the file to a folder where they want to store it. On the other hand, creating a lot of screenshots every day can make a chaos on your desktop. Luckily changing the destination where your screenshots are saved is a simple process that lets you decide where your images will be stored.
Here’s how you can change the location where the screenshots you take using the keyboard shortcuts will be saved.
The All-in-One Screen Recorder & Video Editor
- Record desktop screen, voiceover, and webcam simultaneously
- Edit recorded clips quickly with a wide range of professional tools
- Built-in plentiful templates and effects
- Export to MP4, MOV, MKV, GIF and multiple formats
For Win 7 or later (64-bit)
For macOS 10.12 or later
Secure Download
Part 1: How to Save Screenshots to a Specific Folder on Mac
Changing the folder where you store your screenshots is not an irreversible process, which means that you can reset the destination where the files are saved to Desktop at any point. Do not delete the new folder, because your Mac may not be able to take screenshots, afterward. The process described below is the only way you can delete a folder or add a new destination for your screenshots, and failing to comply with it may cause your Mac to malfunction.
Create a new folder on the desired location on your hard drive, and then launch Terminal, by typing Terminal in the Search Box and clicking on its icon. Once the app is open, you should insert the following command into the Terminal window:
defaults write com.apple.screencapture location
Then enter a space at the end after ‘location’.
The next step is to add the new location at which screenshots will be saved and you can do this by simply dragging the folder you created into Terminal and adding it at the end of the command you just entered. A path is created and the command line should now contain the folder’s unique location and it should look like this:
defaults write com.apple.screencapture location /Users/username/Screenshots
To execute the command you have to press Enter. After Terminal finishes running the command, its window will appear on the screen again. You should proceed to confirm the changes you’ve just made by resetting the User Interface on your computer. In order to do so, you’ll have to insert this command below the one you previously entered:
killall SystemUIServer
Hit Enter once more to confirm the changes and run the new command. Close Terminal app by clicking on the Terminal menu and selecting the Quick Terminal option. The default location where the screenshots are saved on your Mac is now changed and every time you take a screenshot using the Command + Shift + 3 shortcut the file will be saved at the new location. If for whatever reason you want to make the Desktop once again the destination where the screenshots on your computer will be saved here’s how you can do it.
Part 2: How to Change the Screenshot Save Location Back to Desktop
The process of changing the default screenshot save location back to Desktop is nearly identical to the process we just described. You just have to open the Terminal app and insert the following command into the prompt.
defaults write com.apple.screen capture location /Users/Username/Desktop/
Make sure that your username is properly written, and then press Enter to run the command. Now you only have to reset the UI so it can recognize the changes you’ve made, and you can do it by inserting the killall SystemUIServer command into the Terminal window and pressing Enter to execute it.
Don’t forget that deleting the folder you use as a default location for storing screenshots should only be done using the process we just described in the Terminal application, since all other methods may cause unnecessary trouble.
Max Wales
Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Max Wales
Max Wales
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
Whenever you take a screenshot on a Mac computer, a file is saved to the desktop by default. Most Mac users never have the need to change this setting, because they can always move the file to a folder where they want to store it. On the other hand, creating a lot of screenshots every day can make a chaos on your desktop. Luckily changing the destination where your screenshots are saved is a simple process that lets you decide where your images will be stored.
Here’s how you can change the location where the screenshots you take using the keyboard shortcuts will be saved.
The All-in-One Screen Recorder & Video Editor
- Record desktop screen, voiceover, and webcam simultaneously
- Edit recorded clips quickly with a wide range of professional tools
- Built-in plentiful templates and effects
- Export to MP4, MOV, MKV, GIF and multiple formats
For Win 7 or later (64-bit)
For macOS 10.12 or later
Secure Download
Part 1: How to Save Screenshots to a Specific Folder on Mac
Changing the folder where you store your screenshots is not an irreversible process, which means that you can reset the destination where the files are saved to Desktop at any point. Do not delete the new folder, because your Mac may not be able to take screenshots, afterward. The process described below is the only way you can delete a folder or add a new destination for your screenshots, and failing to comply with it may cause your Mac to malfunction.
Create a new folder on the desired location on your hard drive, and then launch Terminal, by typing Terminal in the Search Box and clicking on its icon. Once the app is open, you should insert the following command into the Terminal window:
defaults write com.apple.screencapture location
Then enter a space at the end after ‘location’.
The next step is to add the new location at which screenshots will be saved and you can do this by simply dragging the folder you created into Terminal and adding it at the end of the command you just entered. A path is created and the command line should now contain the folder’s unique location and it should look like this:
defaults write com.apple.screencapture location /Users/username/Screenshots
To execute the command you have to press Enter. After Terminal finishes running the command, its window will appear on the screen again. You should proceed to confirm the changes you’ve just made by resetting the User Interface on your computer. In order to do so, you’ll have to insert this command below the one you previously entered:
killall SystemUIServer
Hit Enter once more to confirm the changes and run the new command. Close Terminal app by clicking on the Terminal menu and selecting the Quick Terminal option. The default location where the screenshots are saved on your Mac is now changed and every time you take a screenshot using the Command + Shift + 3 shortcut the file will be saved at the new location. If for whatever reason you want to make the Desktop once again the destination where the screenshots on your computer will be saved here’s how you can do it.
Part 2: How to Change the Screenshot Save Location Back to Desktop
The process of changing the default screenshot save location back to Desktop is nearly identical to the process we just described. You just have to open the Terminal app and insert the following command into the prompt.
defaults write com.apple.screen capture location /Users/Username/Desktop/
Make sure that your username is properly written, and then press Enter to run the command. Now you only have to reset the UI so it can recognize the changes you’ve made, and you can do it by inserting the killall SystemUIServer command into the Terminal window and pressing Enter to execute it.
Don’t forget that deleting the folder you use as a default location for storing screenshots should only be done using the process we just described in the Terminal application, since all other methods may cause unnecessary trouble.
Max Wales
Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Max Wales
Max Wales
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
Whenever you take a screenshot on a Mac computer, a file is saved to the desktop by default. Most Mac users never have the need to change this setting, because they can always move the file to a folder where they want to store it. On the other hand, creating a lot of screenshots every day can make a chaos on your desktop. Luckily changing the destination where your screenshots are saved is a simple process that lets you decide where your images will be stored.
Here’s how you can change the location where the screenshots you take using the keyboard shortcuts will be saved.
The All-in-One Screen Recorder & Video Editor
- Record desktop screen, voiceover, and webcam simultaneously
- Edit recorded clips quickly with a wide range of professional tools
- Built-in plentiful templates and effects
- Export to MP4, MOV, MKV, GIF and multiple formats
For Win 7 or later (64-bit)
For macOS 10.12 or later
Secure Download
Part 1: How to Save Screenshots to a Specific Folder on Mac
Changing the folder where you store your screenshots is not an irreversible process, which means that you can reset the destination where the files are saved to Desktop at any point. Do not delete the new folder, because your Mac may not be able to take screenshots, afterward. The process described below is the only way you can delete a folder or add a new destination for your screenshots, and failing to comply with it may cause your Mac to malfunction.
Create a new folder on the desired location on your hard drive, and then launch Terminal, by typing Terminal in the Search Box and clicking on its icon. Once the app is open, you should insert the following command into the Terminal window:
defaults write com.apple.screencapture location
Then enter a space at the end after ‘location’.
The next step is to add the new location at which screenshots will be saved and you can do this by simply dragging the folder you created into Terminal and adding it at the end of the command you just entered. A path is created and the command line should now contain the folder’s unique location and it should look like this:
defaults write com.apple.screencapture location /Users/username/Screenshots
To execute the command you have to press Enter. After Terminal finishes running the command, its window will appear on the screen again. You should proceed to confirm the changes you’ve just made by resetting the User Interface on your computer. In order to do so, you’ll have to insert this command below the one you previously entered:
killall SystemUIServer
Hit Enter once more to confirm the changes and run the new command. Close Terminal app by clicking on the Terminal menu and selecting the Quick Terminal option. The default location where the screenshots are saved on your Mac is now changed and every time you take a screenshot using the Command + Shift + 3 shortcut the file will be saved at the new location. If for whatever reason you want to make the Desktop once again the destination where the screenshots on your computer will be saved here’s how you can do it.
Part 2: How to Change the Screenshot Save Location Back to Desktop
The process of changing the default screenshot save location back to Desktop is nearly identical to the process we just described. You just have to open the Terminal app and insert the following command into the prompt.
defaults write com.apple.screen capture location /Users/Username/Desktop/
Make sure that your username is properly written, and then press Enter to run the command. Now you only have to reset the UI so it can recognize the changes you’ve made, and you can do it by inserting the killall SystemUIServer command into the Terminal window and pressing Enter to execute it.
Don’t forget that deleting the folder you use as a default location for storing screenshots should only be done using the process we just described in the Terminal application, since all other methods may cause unnecessary trouble.
Max Wales
Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Max Wales
Also read:
- "[Updated] How to Record Screen with Ezvid Video Maker"
- "\"2024 Approved Accelerated Record Functionality & Narrator Support\""
- "[New] RhythmRipper Screen Recordings Review"
- "\"[Updated] 2024 Approved Authoritative Resource Streamlining Screencasts on the Go With Mobizen\""
- "Breakdown of Leading Free Video Conferencing Services for Commercial and Academic Use"
- "[Updated] Essential Tips for Quality Screencasting"
- "[New] Pros & Cons for the Leading Free Screencast Apps"
- "\"2024 Approved Step-by-Step Perfecting iPhone's Audio Captures\""
- "\"[New] Expert Tips Boosting Efficiency in Screen Recording Using Mobizen for 2024\""
- "\"[Updated] In 2024, The Ultimate List 20+ Methods to Record Skype Calls on Computers\""
- "\"[New] 2024 Approved Mastering the Art of Screen Sharing in Zoom\""
- "Efficient Gaming Footage with CamCapture for 2024"
- "[Updated] Discover & Set Up VRecorder in Minutes (148 Characters)"
- "\"2024 Approved Reposition Mac Picture Cache Destination\""
- "[New] Premier Emulator Titles Simulating PlayStation 2 on iOS for 2024"
- "[New] Top Ways to Preserve and Log YouTube Live Streams"
- "\"In 2024, Efficient Techniques Screen Recording in Google Meet\""
- "\"[New] Analyzing Multi-Angle Video Technology Trends Today\""
- "\"[Updated] Best Screen Capture Alternatives for the Cost-Conscious User\""
- "\"[New] In 2024, IPad Timelapse A Beginner's Handbook to Filming\""
- "[New] Utilizing Zoom's Snap Functionality for 2024"
- "[New] In 2024, Easy Steps to Document Video Calls"
- "\"[Updated] 2024 Approved Energetic Public Speaker Review 8Th Edition\""
- "[New] Top 10 Recorders That Won't Break Your Wallet"
- "[Updated] Determining Best Free Screen Recorder for 2024"
- "How to Minimize Stress in iPad Screen Recordings? Here's a Way"
- "\"[New] 2024 Approved AZ Capture In-Depth App Analysis & Reviews\""
- "Epic Browser Recording Tools for the Ultimate Surfer's Dream for 2024"
- In 2024, 6 Proven Ways to Unlock Itel P55 Phone When You Forget the Password
- Why is iPogo not working On Realme GT 5 Pro? Fixed | Dr.fone
- In 2024, How to Hide/Fake Snapchat Location on Your Vivo S17 | Dr.fone
- Updated Free Video Invitation Makers The Top Choices Events for 2024
- 2024 Approved ARM Support Arrives Filmora X Update Now Live
- Updated 2024 Approved Top-Rated Voice Transformation Software for Mobile
- In 2024, Lock Your Vivo Y100 5G Phone in Style The Top 5 Gesture Lock Screen Apps
- How to Use Emojis on Windows 10 and Windows 11?
- In 2024, How to Cast Apple iPhone 12 to Chromecast? | Dr.fone
- In 2024, Full Guide to Bypass Nokia C12 Pro FRP
- Updated Strategies for Enhancing Clarity Eliminating Unwanted Noise From Internet-Streamed Music and Voices
- 2024 Approved Perfecting Your Facebook Video Cover Tips and Tricks
- How To Restore Missing Messages Files from Oppo A38
- 5 Ways to Track Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G without App | Dr.fone
- Restore Missing App Icon on Honor 80 Pro Straight Screen Edition Step-by-Step Solutions | Dr.fone
- Updated Tracking Down Simulated Acoustics From Steel Percussion Devices
- 2024 Approved How To Normalize Audio In DaVinci Resolve
- In 2024, Dose Life360 Notify Me When Someone Checks My Location On Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max? | Dr.fone
- In 2024, Follow the Simple Steps Below to Flip, Crop, Resize or Move Clips with Final Cut Pro
- New 2024 Approved Here Is a Review of the Best Security Camera Software, and Every Single One Has a Free Option. Technique Questions Are Answered as Well
- Downloading SamFw FRP Tool 3.0 for Google Pixel 8
- How To Fix Unresponsive Touch Screen on Itel A60s | Dr.fone
- Title: In 2024, Change Screenshot Saving Location on Mac
- Author: Rowling
- Created at : 2024-05-19 23:33:58
- Updated at : 2024-05-20 23:33:58
- Link: https://remote-screen-capture.techidaily.com/in-2024-change-screenshot-saving-location-on-mac/
- License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.