A simpler Mac screenshot workflow

Start with the problem you want to solve

Learning the capture shortcuts, finding a missing screenshot, clearing a crowded Desktop and sharing a recording are different problems. Start with the guide that matches yours. Each one explains the native macOS behavior first, then shows where Melt fits in the workflow.

If you cannot find a capture, check its save destination before changing cleanup settings. If you can find it but keep navigating through folders to use it, the recent-capture tray can help. If temporary captures keep accumulating, review the cleanup periods and pin the originals you still need.

Capture with macOS, manage with Melt

Melt works with new recognized screenshots and completed screen recordings saved to one selected local folder while the app is running. It adds previews, access to originals, image copying, file dragging and pinning in the menu bar. You keep using the native capture shortcuts you already know.

The app starts with a baseline of existing folder files and leaves them alone. It does not import every old screenshot or recordings made while it was closed. This makes a fresh test capture the clearest way to check that macOS and Melt are pointing to the same folder.

Keep retention a deliberate choice

Automatic cleanup is optional and starts off. Choose 1, 7 or 30 days when you are ready. Pinned captures are skipped, and eligible unpinned captures move to the system Trash. Melt does not make a duplicate library or a backup of the original. Review Trash before emptying it.

A capture that becomes a permanent project record belongs in your usual project storage and backup workflow. A temporary screenshot can stay in the tray while you need it, then become eligible for cleanup when you have finished with it.

About these guides

CREAM.SOFTWARE, the maker of Melt, maintains these instructions from the app’s supported behavior. Native capture steps link to Apple’s documentation where relevant. Melt requires macOS 15 or later and is a one-time purchase with no subscription or app account. Its capture workflow stays local to your Mac.