Changing the default screenshot save location on Windows is a small tweak that can simplify organizing files, especially when working on multiple projects. Luckily, Microsoft has made it easy to customize where your screenshots go.
Change the Default Screenshot Folder Location
Changing the location where screenshots are saved is relatively simple.
- First, press Win + Print Screen or Win + Shift + S to take a screenshot. This is to ensure the Screenshot folder exists in case it doesn’t yet.
- Open File Explorer and navigate to the Pictures folder. You’ll find a sub-folder there called Screenshots.
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Right-click the Screenshots folder and select Properties from the right-click menu.
- In the Properties window, click on the Location tab. This is where you can manage where your screenshots are stored.
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You’ll see the current file path for your screenshots. Click Move to choose a new location. You can select an existing folder or create a new one. Once you’ve picked a location, click Select Folder in the bottom right of the popup window.
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After selecting your new folder, click Apply in the bottom right of the window, then confirm the change by selecting Yes when prompted. Windows will ask if you’d like to move the existing screenshots to the new folder—select Yes or No, depending on your preference.
If you move your current Screenshots folder to a new folder with the same name, it will merge the two rather than relocating the existing Screenshots folder inside the newly selected one.
Why You Should Change Where Windows Saves Screenshots
While the default folder location will work for most people, it can be a hassle if you prefer to create a more streamlined workflow.
Changing the default location reduces clicks when capturing images because you can set it up wherever you want. This small tweak improves productivity and can help organize screenshots for different projects, making them easier to find.
It also keeps your Pictures folder clutter-free and can save space on your PC’s internal storage if you save them to an external drive.
By customizing your screenshot folder, you gain more control and organization in your daily tasks. It’s a small change that can save you time and energy, keeping your workflow smooth and efficient. If you also want to upgrade your default screenshot app, try giving ShareX a shot!
