How to Screenshot on HP Laptop in 3 Different Ways

Are you a new HP laptop user and curious about how to capture a screenshot? Taking screenshots on your HP laptop can be incredibly useful for a variety of reasons. It allows you to capture and save exactly what’s on your screen at a particular moment, providing a visual record that can come in handy in numerous situations.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to take a screenshot on an HP laptop. So, let’s get started!

Why Take a Screenshot on an HP Laptop?

You might need to take a screenshot on your HP laptop for these reasons:

• Save important information
• Easily share content with others
• Facilitate technical support by showing specific issues
• Create tutorials and guides with visual aids
• Capture memorable moments from videos or online conversations

How to Screenshot on HP Laptop

Here are different methods for taking screenshots on an HP laptop. You can choose whichever suits you best.

1. Windows + Shift + S Shortcut

The easiest way to screenshot a portion of your screen on an HP laptop is by using the Windows + Shift + S shortcut. Here’s how:

1. Press Windows + Shift + S to initiate the snipping tool.
   
   

   

   Press these keys simultaneously.
2. Select the area you want to capture; the screenshot is copied to the clipboard.
3. Paste into an editor such as Adobe PhotoShop or Paint for additional editing or sharing.

2. Print Screen (PrtScn) Key

The Print Screen key (PrtScn) on your keyboard captures the entire screen or just the active window. Here’s how you can use it:

1. Press Windows + PrtScn to capture the entire screen. Use Alt + PrtScn for only the active window.
   
   

   

   Press PrtScn with either Windows or Alt key.
2. The captured screenshot is copied to the clipboard.
3. Open an image editing software like Paint.
4. Press Ctrl + V to paste the screenshot.
   
   

   

   Paste screenshot using Ctrl + V.
5. Make necessary edits.
6. Save the edited image to your chosen destination.

3. Snipping Tool

The Snipping Tool is a built-in Windows app that allows users to take screenshots in various ways. Follow these steps to use it:

1. Open the Start menu.
   
   

   

   Click on Start.
2. Search for “Snipping Tool” and open the application.
   
   

   

   Open the Snipping Tool.
3. Select your snip type (Free-form, Rectangular, Window, or Full-screen).
   
   

   

   Select the mode.
4. Once selected, click and drag to capture your screen’s desired area.
   
   

   

   Capture the screen.
5. Annotate using pen or highlighter if needed.
6. Click on “File” and then “Save As” to save your screenshot.
   
   

   

   Click on the Save As icon.

How to Save and Edit the Screenshots on an HP Laptop

Now that you know how to take screenshots, let’s explore how to save and edit them.

Part 1: Saving Screenshots

Here’s how you can save screenshots on your HP laptop:

1. Choose a Destination Folder:

1. After capturing, choose where to save the screenshot on your computer.
2. Click “Save” in the application being used (Snipping Tool, etc.).
   
   

   

   Click on the Save icon.
3. Select “Save As” and navigate to the desired folder.
4. Name your file and click “Save.”
   
   

   

   Save As > Save

2. Select File Format Options (JPEG, PNG, etc.):

Upon saving, format options like JPEG, PNG, and others may be selected. Consider the purpose for the screenshot and choose the format that meets your needs.

• JPEG for photos and general images.
• PNG for higher quality and transparent backgrounds.

Part 2: Editing Screenshots

If you want to edit screenshots on your HP laptop, consider the following process:

Basic Editing Tools

Open the saved screenshot in an image editing software like Paint, Photoshop, or any tool of preference.
Familiarize yourself with basic editing tools:

• Crop: Trim unwanted parts of the screenshot.
• Resize: Adjust dimensions of the image.
• Rotate: Reorient the image if needed.
• Brightness/Contrast: Enhance visibility.

↪ To annotate:

1. Select the annotation tool.
2. Click on the screenshot where you want to add text or shapes.

↪ To crop:

1. Use the crop tool to select the area you wish to keep.
2. Press “Enter” or confirm through the software’s interface.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If you experience issues like your screenshots not saving, appearing black, or other problems, here’s what you can do:

1. Screenshots Not Saving

• Ensure you have the necessary permissions to save in the chosen folder.
• Check that the destination folder isn’t full.
• Try saving to a different location.
• Ensure your computer has sufficient storage space.

2. Blank or Black Screenshots

• Ensure the application or content you’re capturing is visible on the screen.
• Check for conflicting applications or graphics driver issues.
• Restart the application or your laptop and try capturing again.
• If using a third-party tool, check for updates or try an alternative method.

3. Clipboard Issues (Copy-Paste)

• Ensure the screenshot is copied successfully to the clipboard.
• Try pasting the screenshot into a different application to check clipboard functionality.

4. Low Image Quality

• If saving in JPEG format, consider switching to PNG for higher quality.
• Check resolution settings in your snipping or editing tool.
• Capture the screenshot in the highest resolution available.
• Avoid excessive compression when saving images.

Third-party Alternative Screenshotting Tools

If you’re experiencing trouble with HP’s built-in tools, consider using third-party screenshot tools.

1. ShareX

ShareX is a versatile, open-source screenshot and screencasting tool that offers a comprehensive set of features for capturing, editing, and sharing visual content. Its intuitive interface and powerful capabilities make ShareX a preferred choice among users seeking a robust solution.

The software supports various screenshot capture methods, including full screen, active window, and customizable regions, offering flexibility for diverse needs. Its customization options, extensive format support, and integration with popular cloud services make ShareX a valuable asset for individuals and professionals.

2. Lightshot

Lightshot is a user-friendly and efficient screenshot tool. With its straightforward interface, you can capture and annotate screenshots effortlessly. Its quick sharing options make it ideal for collaboration and communication.

It offers instant editing capabilities, enabling you to annotate, highlight, or add text to your captures. Additionally, it supports multiple file formats, offering flexibility in saving and sharing your screenshots.

3. Snagit

Snagit is a powerful screenshot and screen recording tool, perfect for HP laptops. It is user-friendly with advanced features, allowing you to capture, edit, and share screenshots effortlessly.

Snagit stands out for its video recording features, making tutorials and demos a breeze. Its simplicity and cloud integration make it a top choice for efficiently capturing and editing screenshots on your HP laptop.