High Sierra, while an older macOS version, still offers robust screen recording capabilities. This guide provides comprehensive instructions on how to screen record on your Mac running High Sierra, covering various scenarios and techniques.
Method 1: Using QuickTime Player (Built-in Solution)
QuickTime Player, a pre-installed application on all Macs, offers a straightforward way to capture your screen. This is perfect for simple screen recordings without needing additional software.
Steps:
- Open QuickTime Player: Locate QuickTime Player in your Applications folder and launch it.
- Start Recording: Go to the "File" menu and select "New Movie Recording." This will open a recording window.
- Select Input: Click the small arrow next to the record button. Here you can choose your microphone for audio recording (if needed) and select your screen or a specific application window. For full-screen recording, select the entire screen. For recording a specific app, click the app window.
- Start and Stop Recording: Click the record button to begin. A countdown timer will appear. To stop recording, click the stop button in the menu bar or the QuickTime Player window.
- Save Your Recording: Once stopped, your recording will automatically open in QuickTime Player. Go to "File" > "Save As" to save it to your desired location, choosing a file name and format (e.g., .mov).
Method 2: Using Third-Party Screen Recording Software (For Advanced Features)
While QuickTime Player is sufficient for basic needs, third-party applications provide more advanced features such as editing capabilities, annotations, and more versatile recording options. Many free and paid options are available. Research and choose one that best suits your requirements.
Troubleshooting Common Issues:
- No Audio: Ensure you've selected the correct microphone input in the QuickTime Player recording settings. Check your system's sound preferences to make sure your microphone is working correctly.
- Low-Quality Recording: High-resolution recordings take up significant storage space. If you're experiencing low quality, try adjusting the recording resolution in your chosen screen recording software.
- Recording Lag: If your screen recording is lagging, it could be due to insufficient system resources. Close unnecessary applications before recording to improve performance.
Optimizing Your Screen Recordings:
- Clean Background: Keep your desktop clean and organized for a more professional-looking recording.
- Clear Audio: Use a high-quality microphone for clear audio recording. Minimize background noise.
- Proper Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting in your recording environment to maintain good video quality.
- Concise Recordings: Keep your recordings concise and to the point. Avoid unnecessary rambling or pauses.
This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to effectively screen record on your Mac running High Sierra. Whether you're creating tutorials, demos, or capturing gameplay, these methods will enable you to achieve high-quality results. Remember to experiment with different methods and settings to find the workflow that best suits your needs.
