How to Take a Screen Shot of the Mac Login Screen
Need to capture your login wallpaper or a system error before logging in? Here is the secret.
Most screenshot shortcuts don’t work until you are logged into your account. But there is a way to capture the login screen.
1. The Classic Shortcuts Still Work
Surprisingly, the standard Cmd + Shift + 3 (Full Screen) often works even on the login screen if you have updated macOS. The file will be saved to the Desktop of the first account that logs in.
2. Using Remote Management
If you are a developer, you can use Apple Remote Desktop or a VNC connection from another computer to view and screenshot the login screen remotely.
3. The “External Photo” Method
If all else fails, or if you are capturing a hardware-level firmware screen (like FileVault encryption), using a high-quality camera on your phone is sometimes the only way.
ScreenShotHow Team
Expert Guide Author