By Derek Schou, Associate Editor
Brands have numerous digital tools that they can leverage. While performing screen or video captures may not be the MVP of the collection, or even in the starting lineup, few technologies are as reliable or effective a role player as these solutions.
These tools enable users to take a screenshot (or record video in some instances) directly from their computer screens. Capturing digital content of this nature can be incredibly useful, providing Web design teams a powerful resource to review and collaborate on their work or marketers the ability to add context and support to their content.
Below is a list of six screen capturing tools, which Web pros can leverage for a variety of purposes.
Screenpresso ($0-$1,490)
One of the most interesting features from Screenpresso is that brands are able to capture scrolling Web pages in images by creating a unique sequence by using the stitching feature. Another useful aspect of the tool is the ability to convert captured images into a universally viewable PDF.
Camtasia (PC $299, Mac $99)
More than just a screen recording tool, Camtasia is also a powerful video editing platform. Brands that choose to leverage this tool will not only be able to record activities on their own computer screen, but they will also be able to import video from another source. One of the most interesting and useful features of Camtasia is its mobile app, which can be used to upload videos that require editing. Once users are finished with their videos they can then share them on YouTube, Google Drive, Facebook and other popular outlets.
TinyTake (Free)
With a variety of capabilities available for users to leverage, TinyTake is a full-featured image and video capturing software for Microsoft Windows. One of the most important and useful tools that TinyTake offers is the ability to annotate and mark up images that the user captured. Thanks to this feature, along with its shareability, users can utilize TinyTake as an integral tool in their review process.
Movavi Screen Capture Studio ($39.95-$99.95)
One of many products in the Movavi suite of products, its Screen Capture Studio offers brands a variety of enhanced features, including the ability to record demonstrations. The screen capturing tool enables users to include the keyboard controls for every action they commit during the video and they can even highlight the cursor so viewers can easily follow their actions.
Voila ($29.99)
Exclusively for Macs, Voila is a comprehensive image and screen recording tool which comes with a vast array of features. Among the features available is a collection of editing tools (spotlight, crop, skew, filter, blur, eraser, etc.) which users can leverage to make both small- and large-scale changes to their screen captures.
PicPick ($8.99-$21.99)
A comprehensive image capturing tool, PicPick offers brands a wide variety of features with an easy-to-use layout. Through PicPick, Web pros can use a variety of screen capture features, including the ability to capture active and scrolling windows, as well as the ability to edit screen captures for things like brightness and saturation levels. Moreover, PicPick enables brands to share and store their screen captures on a variety of channels and platforms including Facebook, email, Box and Skype.
Take Your Shot
While screen captures may never be the Michael Jordan of technologies, they are a valuable asset for any Web professional and can play a crucial role in a brand's winning strategy.
