Screenshots · Option + A

Capture, annotate, and keep screenshots in view

Press Option + A to capture an area or click a window. Add arrows, text, and mosaic, then copy, save as PNG, or float the image while you work. Free and open source for macOS 14+.

Click Float to keep the screenshot in view

  1. 1Press Option + A, then drag to capture
  2. 2Add an arrow and text; cover private details
  3. 3Click Float to keep the screenshot in view

Illustration using the default shortcut: capture part of a note, add an arrow and text, cover the email address with mosaic, then float the screenshot with Copy and Save at the top.

How it works

A screenshot is often just the first step in explaining a problem: you still need to point out what matters and cover private details. Tidest keeps capture and annotation together. Float the result when you need a reference beside your work, without switching back and forth.

  1. Press Option + A, then drag to capture
  2. Add an arrow and text; cover private details
  3. Click Float to keep the screenshot in view

Details

Press Option + A to start. Drag to capture an area or click a window. Drag the selection edges to resize, or enter its width and height. Press Esc to cancel. Change the shortcut in Settings → Screenshot.

Add rectangles, ellipses, arrows, freehand drawings, or text. Use mosaic to cover private details. The toolbar also lets you undo, redo, and delete annotations.

Click Done in the toolbar to copy the screenshot, or Save to export a PNG. Screenshots require Screen Recording; check access in Settings → Screenshot.

Keep screenshots in floating windows

After annotating, click Float to show the screenshot in its own window alongside your work. Move the window or drag its edges to resize it while following a reference or instructions.

Use Copy or Save at the top to copy the image to the clipboard or save it as PNG. Close the window with the button at the top left when you are finished.

Good for

  • Pointing out a problem to a teammate with arrows and text
  • Covering email addresses, account details, or other private information before sharing
  • Keeping a reference image, instructions, or notes visible while you work
Which permission do screenshots need?

Screenshots require Screen Recording. Check its status in Tidest Settings → Screenshot, then open System Settings to allow access. This permission also provides window previews. Without it, you can still switch windows, but cannot take screenshots.

Can I change the screenshot shortcut?

Yes. Open Settings from the menu bar, choose Screenshot, click the shortcut, and press a new combination. You can also restore the default Option + A.

Can I copy or save a floating screenshot?

Yes. Click Float to put the screenshot in its own window. Copy and Save are at the top, and you can move or resize the window. Images save as PNG.

Try it on your Mac

Free download for macOS 14 or later. Set up in a minute.

Download for Mac — free