Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to take a screenshot on iPhone 8. Whether you’re a new iPhone user or just looking to brush up on your skills, this article will provide you with detailed and easy-to-follow instructions. With the power of a screenshot, you can capture and share important moments, conversations, or even troubleshooting steps. Let’s dive in and explore the various methods and tips for taking screenshots on your iPhone 8.
Method 1: Using the Side Button and Volume Up Button
The most common and straightforward method to take a screenshot on iPhone 8 is by using the physical buttons. Simply press and release the Side button (previously known as the Sleep/Wake button) located on the right side of your iPhone, along with the Volume Up button on the left side. You’ll hear a camera shutter sound, and the screenshot preview will appear in the bottom left corner of your screen. From there, you can edit, share, or dismiss the screenshot.
Step 1: Locate the Side button and Volume Up button
The Side button on iPhone 8 is located on the right side of the device, towards the top. The Volume Up button is located on the left side, above the Volume Down button. Familiarize yourself with the location of these buttons to ensure smooth and accurate screenshot capture.
Step 2: Prepare the screen for the screenshot
Make sure the screen you want to capture is visible and ready. This could be a webpage, a chat conversation, or anything else you wish to capture as an image.
Step 3: Press the Side button and Volume Up button simultaneously
Press and release the Side button and the Volume Up button at the same time. It’s important to press them simultaneously to ensure the screenshot is captured accurately. You might need to practice a few times to get the timing right.
Step 4: Look for the screenshot preview
After successfully capturing the screenshot, you’ll hear the camera shutter sound, and the screenshot preview will appear in the bottom left corner of your screen. This preview will stay there for a few seconds, allowing you to take immediate actions like editing or sharing the screenshot.
Step 5: Edit, share, or dismiss the screenshot
Once the screenshot preview appears, you have various options to choose from. You can tap on the preview to enter editing mode, where you can crop, rotate, add annotations, or make other modifications to the screenshot. If you’re satisfied with the screenshot as it is, you can simply swipe it away to dismiss it. Alternatively, you can tap on the Share button to instantly share the screenshot through messages, email, social media, or other compatible apps.
Method 2: Using AssistiveTouch
If you find it difficult to press the physical buttons simultaneously, or your buttons are not functioning properly, you can use AssistiveTouch, a built-in accessibility feature. AssistiveTouch creates a floating button on your screen, allowing you to access various functions with a single tap.
Step 1: Enable AssistiveTouch
To enable AssistiveTouch, go to your iPhone’s Settings app. From there, navigate to “Accessibility” > “Touch” > “AssistiveTouch.” Toggle the AssistiveTouch switch to enable it. You’ll notice a floating button on your screen once it’s enabled.
Step 2: Customize AssistiveTouch for screenshot capture
After enabling AssistiveTouch, you can customize it to include the screenshot function. Tap on the floating AssistiveTouch button, go to “Device,” and then select “More.” From the list of options, find and tap on “Screenshot.” This will add the screenshot function to your AssistiveTouch menu.
Step 3: Capture a screenshot using AssistiveTouch
With AssistiveTouch enabled and the screenshot function added to the menu, you can now capture a screenshot with a single tap. Simply tap on the floating AssistiveTouch button to open the menu, and then tap on “Screenshot.” Your iPhone 8 will capture the screenshot and display the preview for you to edit, share, or dismiss as desired.
Method 3: Using the QuickTime Player (for Mac users)
If you’re using a Mac computer, you can take a screenshot of your iPhone 8 screen by connecting it via a Lightning cable and using the QuickTime Player. QuickTime Player is a media player and screen recording tool available on Mac computers.
Step 1: Connect your iPhone 8 to your Mac
Connect your iPhone 8 to your Mac computer using a Lightning cable. Ensure that both devices are connected securely.
Step 2: Open QuickTime Player
On your Mac, open the QuickTime Player application. You can find it in the Applications folder or use Spotlight search to locate it quickly.
Step 3: Create a new movie recording
In the QuickTime Player menu, click on “File” and then select “New Movie Recording.” This will open a new recording window.
Step 4: Select your iPhone as the source
In the recording window, you’ll notice a small down arrow next to the record button. Click on it, and a dropdown menu will appear. From the menu, select your iPhone as the camera and microphone source. This will mirror your iPhone 8 screen on your Mac computer.
Step 5: Capture a screenshot using QuickTime Player
With your iPhone screen mirrored on your Mac, you can now capture a screenshot using QuickTime Player. Simply locate the desired screen on your iPhone 8, whether it’s a specific app or the home screen, and click on the camera icon in the QuickTime Player window. This will capture the screenshot and save it to your Mac’s default save location.
Troubleshooting: What to Do When Screenshots Aren’t Working
While taking screenshots on iPhone 8 is usually a smooth process, there might be instances where it doesn’t work as expected. If you’re facing any issues with capturing screenshots, try the following troubleshooting steps:
Restart your iPhone
Restarting your iPhone can help resolve temporary software glitches that might be affecting the screenshot function. To restart your iPhone 8, press and hold the Side button until the “Slide to power off” slider appears. Slide it to power off your device, and then press and hold the Side button again until the Apple logo appears, indicating that your iPhone is restarting.
Ensure enough storage space is available
If your iPhone’s storage is almost full, it may affect the screenshot function. Make sure you have enough available storage space by going to “Settings” > “General” > “iPhone Storage.” If your storage is running low, consider deleting unnecessary files or apps to free up space.
Check if the Side button or Volume Up button is functioning properly
If the physical buttons on your iPhone 8 are not functioning properly, it can affect your ability to capture screenshots using Method 1. Test the buttons by pressing them individually to ensure they respond correctly. If you notice any issues, consider contacting Apple Support for further assistance or getting your device checked at an authorized service center.
Reset the settings on your iPhone
If none of the above solutions work, you can try resetting the settings on your iPhone 8. This will revert your device’s settings to their default state while preserving your data. To reset your iPhone settings, go to “Settings” > “General” > “Reset” > “Reset All Settings.” Keep in mind that this will erase your personalized settings, such as Wi-Fi passwords and display preferences, so make sure to take note of any important settings before proceeding.
Contact Apple Support for further assistance
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and are still unable to capture screenshots on your iPhone 8, it’s best to reach out to Apple Support for further assistance. They can provide guidance specific to your device and help resolve any underlying issues that may be affecting the screenshot function.
Tips and Tricks for Taking the Perfect Screenshot
Here are some useful tips and tricks to enhance your screenshot-taking experience on iPhone 8:
Clean your screen
Before capturing a screenshot, make sure to clean your iPhone screen to avoid any unwanted smudges or fingerprints that may affect the clarity of the screenshot. Use a microfiber cloth or a screen cleaning solution for best results.
Use the Markup feature
The Markup feature allows you to add annotations, drawings, text, and other elements to your screenshots directly on your iPhone. After capturing a screenshot, tap on the preview and then tap on the Markup icon (looks like a pen tip) to enter editing mode. From there, you can use various tools and colors to enhance your screenshot and convey your message effectively.
Utilize the Timer function
If you need to capture screenshots of time-sensitive content, such as pop-up messages or animations, you can use the Timer function to delay the screenshot capture. Open the Camera app on your iPhone, switch to the Timer mode, set the desired delay (e.g., 5 seconds), and position your iPhone appropriately. Once the timer elapses, your iPhone will automatically capture the screenshot, giving you enough time to prepare the screen for the capture.
Experiment with different button combinations
While the Side button and Volume Up button combination is the standard method for capturing screenshots on iPhone 8, you can also try different button combinations to find the most comfortable method for you. Some users may prefer using the Home button instead of the Volume Up button, especially if they are accustomed to older iPhone models. Keep in mind that the Home button combination may vary depending on your iPhone model, so refer to the specific instructions for your device.
How to Edit and Share Screenshots
Once you’ve captured a screenshot on your iPhone 8, you have various options for editing and sharing it. When the screenshot preview appears in the bottom left corner of your screen, tap on it to enter the editing mode. Here, you can crop, rotate, add text, draw, or use other editing tools to enhance your screenshot. After editing, you can tap on the “Done” button to save the changes or use the Share button to instantly share the screenshot through messages, email, social media, or other compatible apps.
Editing options
When you enter the editing mode by tapping on the screenshot preview, you’ll find various editing options at the bottom of the screen. These options include cropping, rotating, adding text, drawing with different tools and colors, and even magnifying specific areas. Explore these options to customize your screenshot according to your needs.
Crop and adjust
If your screenshot includes unnecessary areas or you want to focus on a specific portion of the screen, you can use the crop function. Tap on the crop icon in the editing mode, and then adjust the selection by dragging the handles. You can also rotate the screenshot by tapping on the rotate icon.
Add text and drawings
Adding text or drawings to your screenshot can be useful for highlighting specific information or adding annotations. Tap on the text icon to add text, and then customize the font, size, color, and alignment. Similarly, tap on the drawing icon to access various drawing tools, such as a pen, marker, highlighter, or eraser. Experiment with different options to make your screenshot more informative and visually appealing.
Access additional tools
In addition to cropping, rotating, adding text, and drawing, you can access additional tools to enhance your screenshots. Tap on the “+” icon to access tools like magnifier, shapes, signatures, and more. These tools can be particularly useful for specific use cases, such as magnifying small text or adding professional signatures to documents.
Save or share your edited screenshot
After making the desired edits, tap on the “Done” button to save the changes to your edited screenshot. The screenshot will be saved in the default “Screenshots” album in the Photos app. From there, you can view, share, or organize your screenshots as needed. Alternatively, if you want to share the screenshot immediately after editing, tap on the Share button and choose the desired sharing option, such as Messages, Mail, Facebook, or any other compatible app installed on your iPhone 8.
Using Third-Party Apps for Advanced Screenshot Features
If you’re looking for additional screenshot features beyond the built-in options, you can explore third-party apps available on the App Store. These apps offer advanced functionalities, such as capturing long webpages, scrolling screenshots, or even recording screen videos. Some popular apps in this category include “Snagit,” “Screen Master,” and “GoScreenCapture.”
Snagit
Snagit is a powerful screen capture and screen recording software available for both macOS and Windows. It offers a wide range of features, including scrolling screenshot capture, annotation tools, image editing capabilities, and easy sharing options. With Snagit, you can capture long webpages, entire documents, or any content that requires scrolling. It’s a great option if you frequently need to capture screenshots for professional or educational purposes.
Screen Master
Screen Master is a versatile screenshot and image editing app available for iPhone and Android devices. It offers a variety of screenshot capture options, including scrolling screenshots and customized screenshot shapes. With Screen Master, you can easily capture screenshots of webpages, chats, or any other content that extends beyond the visible screen. The app also provides powerful editing tools, allowing you to add annotations, stickers, or pixelate sensitive information before sharing the screenshots.GoScreenCapture
GoScreenCapture is a Windows-compatible screenshot tool that offers a simple and intuitive interface for capturing screenshots. It allows you to capture screenshots of specific windows, regions, or the entire screen. GoScreenCapture also provides basic editing features, such as adding text, arrows, or shapes to your screenshots. With its lightweight and user-friendly design, it’s a convenient option for quick and efficient screenshot capture on Windows computers.
These are just a few examples of third-party apps that offer advanced screenshot features. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, you can explore different apps on the App Store to find the one that best suits your requirements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While taking screenshots on your iPhone 8, it’s important to avoid the following common mistakes:
Pressing the wrong buttons or pressing them too quickly
When attempting to capture a screenshot using the physical buttons, make sure you press the correct buttons simultaneously. Pressing the wrong buttons or pressing them too quickly can result in accidental actions or failed screenshot capture. Take your time and ensure you’re pressing the Side button and Volume Up button accurately.
Accidentally triggering other buttons or features while attempting to take a screenshot
Be mindful of other buttons or features on your iPhone 8 that might be triggered unintentionally while attempting to take a screenshot. For example, avoid pressing the Home button or the Side button for too long, as this can activate other functions like Siri or the power off slider. Stay focused on the specific buttons required for screenshot capture.
Not saving or sharing your screenshots promptly, leading to cluttered storage
It’s important to promptly save or share your screenshots after capturing them to avoid cluttering your device’s storage. If you capture numerous screenshots without managing them regularly, it can lead to a disorganized Photos app and make it challenging to locate specific screenshots when needed. Develop a habit of reviewing and organizing your screenshots periodically to keep your device storage clean and manageable.
Comparing Screenshot Methods on Different iPhone Models
While this guide primarily focuses on taking screenshots on iPhone 8, the methods described here are applicable to various other iPhone models as well. However, it’s worth noting that some newer models, such as iPhone X or later, may have different button combinations due to the absence of the Home button. Always refer to the specific instructions for your iPhone model to ensure accurate screenshot capture.
Additional Resources and FAQs
Q: Can I take a screenshot without the shutter sound?
A: No, the shutter sound is a mandatory system sound that ensures privacy and prevents unauthorized capturing of screenshots.
Q: Where can I find my screenshots after capturing them?
A: By default, your screenshots are saved in the “Photos” app under the “Screenshots” album.
Q: Can I take a screenshot of a video or movie?
A: No, due to copyright protection, you cannot take screenshots of protected content, such as videos, movies, or certain apps.
Q: How do I take a screenshot of a specific portion of the screen?
A: After capturing the screenshot, tap on the preview in the bottom left corner, and select “Crop.” From there, you can adjust the selection to capture the desired portion of the screen.
Q: Can I take screenshots while in a phone call or FaceTime?
A: Yes, you can take screenshots during a phone call or FaceTime session by following the same methods described earlier.
Q: Can I take screenshots if my iPhone is in low-power mode?
A: Yes, taking screenshots is not affected by low-power mode. You can capture screenshots regardless of your iPhone’s power settings.
Q: Can I take screenshots of webpages that require scrolling?
A: The built-in screenshot methods do not support scrolling screenshots. However, as mentioned earlier, third-party apps like “Snagit” offer this functionality.
Q: Can I undo edits made to a screenshot?
A: Yes, after editing a screenshot, you can tap on the “Revert” button to undo all the changes and revert to the original screenshot.
Q: Can I take screenshots on my iPhone 8 with a broken Home button?
A: Yes, you can still take screenshots using AssistiveTouch, as explained in Method 2.
In conclusion, capturing screenshots on iPhone 8 is a simple yet powerful feature that allows you to preserve and share important information. Whether you prefer using physical buttons, AssistiveTouch, or even external methods like QuickTime Player, this guide has provided you with comprehensive instructions to suit your preferences and needs. Now, go ahead and start capturing those memorable moments or important conversations with ease!