How to Do Screen Capture in SOLIDWORKS

SOLIDWORKS screen capture tools let you save images of the graphics area for documentation, communication, instructions, reports, or quick design reviews. A good screen capture can show model geometry clearly without needing to export a drawing or rendering.

Set up the view first

Before capturing the screen, rotate and zoom the model so the important area is visible. Hide unnecessary sketches, planes, temporary axes, or components. The capture should show the design clearly without extra clutter.

Also consider the background color and model appearance. A dark part on a dark background, or a light part on a white background, can make details harder to see in the final image.

Use image capture

1. Open the part, assembly, or drawing.
2. Set the view orientation and display style.
3. Use the screen capture or image capture command.
4. Choose the save location and file format.
5. Save the image and review the result.

Choose a clear display style

Shaded with edges is often useful for tutorials and design reviews because it shows both shape and edges. Wireframe may be useful for internal geometry, while hidden lines removed can make drawings or technical views cleaner. Choose the style that communicates the point of the image.

If you are showing a customer or non-CAD viewer, avoid overly technical display modes unless they help explain the issue. A simple shaded view is often easier to understand.

Use section views or exploded views

If the important detail is inside the model, use a section view before capturing. For assemblies, an exploded view can make component relationships easier to understand. Capture the view after the model is arranged clearly.

For a sequence of instructions, keep the view orientation consistent from one capture to the next. Consistency makes the steps easier to follow.

Check image size and format

Use a file format that fits the purpose. PNG is good for crisp interface and model screenshots. JPG can be smaller for general sharing. For documentation, save the image large enough that text and model edges remain readable.

If the image will be placed in a report or manual, test it at the final size. An image that looks sharp full-screen may become unreadable after being scaled down.

Troubleshooting

If the capture looks blurry, increase the graphics area size or output resolution. If the image has too much clutter, hide reference geometry and annotations before capturing. If colors look wrong, check the scene, background, and display style.

Screen captures are quick, but they still benefit from preparation. A few seconds spent setting the view can make the saved image much easier to understand.

When the capture is used for a technical issue, include enough surrounding geometry for context. Cropping too tightly can make the problem harder for another user to diagnose.

For repeat documentation, save named views in SOLIDWORKS before capturing. Named views help you return to the same camera angle if you need updated screenshots after a model change.

If the capture includes dimensions or annotations, zoom in enough that the text is readable. A screenshot that hides the numbers does not help the reader understand the design issue.