Fix: Screenshots Not Saving in Pictures Folder

Normally, Windows saves screenshots in the Pictures > Screenshots folder through a predefined registry path. If this path gets moved, blocked, or redirected, the capture still happens, but no file is created in the expected location.In most cases, this occurs when the default save directory has been changed, OneDrive takes over the folder, or Windows doesn’t have permission to write the file.

1. Disable OneDrive Screenshot Auto-Save

When OneDrive’s screenshot auto-save is active, Windows redirects captures from the local Pictures\Screenshots folder to OneDrive. The screenshot is still created, but the save path changes, which can make it look like nothing was saved. Turning this setting off restores the default local location.

Note: If you prefer to keep auto-save enabled, your screenshots will be stored in OneDrive\Pictures\Screenshots. You can pin this folder for faster access.

1. Right-click the OneDrive icon in the tray bar and select the Settings button.
2. Go to the Sync and backup section and uncheck Save screenshots I capture to OneDrive.

2. Enable Snipping Tool’s Automatic Save Feature

Turning on Snipping Tool’s automatic save makes Windows use Snipping Tool’s dedicated save system instead of relying on the default registry path. This helps bypass any broken or redirected folder settings and ensures each capture is stored directly in Pictures\Screenshots without depending on the Win + PrtScn shortcut.

1. Search for Snipping Tool using the Windows search bar.
2. In Snipping Tool, press the three horizontal dots and select Settings.
3. Enable Automatically save original screenshots and choose the location where you want them saved.
4. Try taking a screenshot again to confirm if the images are being saved properly.

3. Change Default Screenshot Path (Advanced Users Only)

Note: This method involves editing the registry. It is safe if followed correctly, but mistakes can cause unexpected system behavior. Follow the steps carefully or back up the registry before making any changes.

By manually setting a valid folder path in the Registry Editor, you can force Windows to save screenshots in your preferred location, bypassing any corrupted or misplaced default paths.

1. Open regedit and navigate to:

   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders

2. Modify the {B7BEDE81-DF94-4682-A7D8-57A52620B86F} value and set it to the folder path where you want your screenshots saved.
3. Restart Windows to apply the changes.

If none of the above solutions work, the issue is likely linked to deeper system corruption or broken shell folder mappings.

In such cases, using a trusted third-party screenshot tool can help you bypass the issue and continue saving captures normally.

If the problem still persists, performing a clean Windows reinstall is the most reliable way to fully restore the default screenshot behavior.