1. Introduction
Taking screenshots on Ubuntu is extremely useful for creating manuals, reporting bugs, and design work.
This article provides a complete guide covering basic screenshot methods available on Ubuntu, advanced capture techniques using the terminal,
and the use of convenient third-party tools.
2. Basic Screenshot Methods
2.1 Taking a Full-Screen Screenshot
The easiest way to take a screenshot on Ubuntu is by pressing the “Print Screen” key on your keyboard.
This captures the entire screen and saves it by default in the Pictures folder under the Screenshots directory.
With this method, you can quickly take full-screen screenshots.
2.2 Taking a Screenshot of a Window
If you want to capture only a specific window, use the Alt + Print Screen shortcut.
This captures the active window and saves it in the Pictures folder, just like a full-screen screenshot.
2.3 Taking a Screenshot of a Selected Area
To capture only a specific part of the screen, use the Shift + Print Screen shortcut.
You can select the area with your mouse, making it useful for presentations or highlighting specific sections.
3. Advanced Screenshot Methods Using the Terminal
On Ubuntu, you can take more advanced screenshots using the terminal.
This method is recommended for advanced users who want precise control or use scripts.
3.1 Installing gnome-screenshot
Ubuntu comes with a command-line tool called gnome-screenshot that allows you to take screenshots via the terminal.
If this tool is not installed, you can install it using the following command:
sudo apt install gnome-screenshot3.2 Capturing the Entire Screen
Run the following command to capture the entire screen:
gnome-screenshot3.3 Capturing Only a Window
To capture only the active window, use the following command:
gnome-screenshot -w3.4 Capturing a Selected Area
If you want to capture a specific part of the screen, you can specify the area with the following command:
gnome-screenshot -a3.5 Saving Captures to a Specific Folder
By default, screenshots are saved in the Pictures folder, but you can specify a custom location:
gnome-screenshot -w -f ~/Documents/window_screenshot.png3.6 Using Delayed Capture
If you need time to prepare your screen, you can set a delay before capturing.
For example, to capture a window after 5 seconds, use the following command:
gnome-screenshot -w -d 54. Using Third-Party Tools
In addition to Ubuntu’s built-in screenshot tools, you can also use feature-rich third-party tools.
Here, we introduce two popular options: Shutter and Flameshot.
4.1 Installing and Using Shutter
Shutter is a powerful tool that allows you to edit screenshots immediately after capturing them.
You can add text, arrows, and annotations to highlight important areas. Install it with the following command:
sudo apt install shutterWith Shutter, you can capture and edit screenshots instantly, making it an excellent tool for tutorials and presentation materials.
4.2 Installing and Using Flameshot
Flameshot is a simple yet powerful screenshot tool.
It features customizable shortcuts and advanced editing functions. Install it using the following command:
sudo apt install flameshotFlameshot provides rich editing features, allowing you to add annotations and highlights to your screenshots instantly.
5. Setting Save Locations and Customizing Shortcuts
5.1 Checking and Changing the Default Save Location
By default, Ubuntu saves screenshots in the Pictures folder, but you can change this location.
By creating a custom script, you can automatically save screenshots to any folder of your choice.
5.2 Customizing Shortcut Keys
You can also customize the keyboard shortcuts to suit your preferences.
Go to Settings > Keyboard > Shortcuts to disable existing shortcuts or assign new ones.
This allows you to work more efficiently.
6. Frequently Asked Questions and Troubleshooting
6.1 Screenshots Are Not Being Saved
Sometimes, screenshots may not be saved correctly.
If this happens, check whether the save folder exists and has the correct permissions.
Also, ensure that your disk has enough available space, as insufficient storage may prevent saving.
6.2 Compatibility with Other Applications
Some screenshot tools may have compatibility issues with specific applications.
Using tools like Flameshot or Shutter can help avoid these problems.
