how to change where screenshots are saved windows 11
Changing where your screenshots are saved in Windows 11 is pretty simple. You’ll need to open a specific folder, access its properties, and select a new location for your screenshots. Once configured, every time you hit that Print Screen button or use the Snipping Tool, your screenshots will go straight to the new folder you chose.
How to Change Where Screenshots Are Saved in Windows 11
This guide will walk you through the steps to change the default save location for screenshots in Windows 11. Follow each step carefully, and you’ll have your screenshots organized just the way you want.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
Open File Explorer by clicking on the folder icon in the taskbar or pressing the Windows key + E.
File Explorer is your go-to app for managing and navigating through your files. Once it’s open, you’ll use it to find the "Pictures" folder, where screenshots are usually saved by default.
Step 2: Navigate to the Pictures Folder
Type "Pictures" in the address bar at the top and press Enter.
This will take you directly to the Pictures folder, which contains a subfolder called "Screenshots." This folder is where Windows 11 typically saves your screenshots.
Step 3: Right-Click the Screenshots Folder
Right-click the "Screenshots" folder and select Properties from the context menu.
This opens a dialog box that lets you view or change various properties of the Screenshots folder. We’re looking to change where this folder points to.
Step 4: Select the Location Tab
In the Properties dialog box, click on the Location tab.
The Location tab is where you can see the current path of your Screenshots folder. It also provides the interface to change this path to a new location.
Step 5: Click the Move Button
Click the "Move" button in the Location tab.
This action enables you to choose a new folder for your screenshots. You’ll be able to navigate through your computer and pick where you want your screenshots to be saved from now on.
Step 6: Choose a New Folder
Navigate to the desired folder or create a new one, then click Select Folder.
You can choose any folder on your computer or even an external drive. Once you select the folder, click "Select Folder" to confirm your choice.
Step 7: Apply and Confirm the Change
Click Apply, then OK, to confirm the change.
A dialog box might appear, asking if you want to move all existing screenshots to the new location. Choose "Yes" to keep everything in one place.
After you complete these steps, all your future screenshots will be saved in the new location you specified. This change helps you keep your images organized and easily accessible.
Tips for How to Change Where Screenshots Are Saved in Windows 11
- Create a dedicated folder: For better organization, create a specific folder named "Screenshots" in your desired location.
- Back up your images: Before moving the folder, back up your existing screenshots to avoid losing any files.
- Use external storage: If you’re running low on disk space, consider saving screenshots to an external drive.
- Keep track of changes: Note down the new location somewhere so you won’t forget where your screenshots are being saved.
- Test it out: After making the change, take a couple of screenshots to ensure they are being saved in the new location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I save screenshots to a cloud folder?
Absolutely! You can choose a folder within your cloud storage service like OneDrive or Google Drive to save screenshots.
Will this affect how I take screenshots?
No, changing the save location won’t affect the way you take screenshots. The process remains the same.
Can I revert to the default location?
Yes, you can go back to the Location tab in Properties and click "Restore Default" to revert to the original save location.
Does this work for all types of screenshots?
Yes, regardless of whether you use the Snipping Tool, Print Screen button, or any other method, all screenshots will be saved to the new location.
What if I delete the new folder by mistake?
If you delete the folder, Windows will recreate it in the default location the next time you take a screenshot.
Summary
- Open File Explorer.
- Navigate to the Pictures folder.
- Right-click the Screenshots folder and select Properties.
- Select the Location tab.
- Click the Move button.
- Choose a new folder.
- Apply and confirm the change.
Conclusion
Changing where screenshots are saved in Windows 11 is a great way to keep your files organized and make sure you always know where to find them. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily direct your screenshots to a new folder, whether it’s on your hard drive, an external storage device, or even a cloud storage service.
This small change can make a big difference, especially if you often take screenshots for work or school. No more digging through random folders to find that one screenshot you need. Plus, organizing your files can help your computer run more efficiently by keeping things tidy.
If you found this guide helpful, why not share it with a friend who could use some help with their Windows 11 settings? Or, if you’re interested in learning more about how to customize other Windows features, stay tuned for more tips and tutorials. Happy screenshotting!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.