PicPick - Screen Capture & Image Editor

A Compact Solution: Exploring PicPick
The adage that significant value can be found in modest sizes holds true, particularly within the realm of software. For applications occupying only a few megabytes of storage, this observation remains remarkably relevant. Let's delve into the capabilities of the free PicPick software and assess whether its compact size belies its functionality.
PicPick: More Than Just a Screen Capture Tool
PicPick, currently at version 2.3.0, is fundamentally a screen capture application offered as freeware. However, its developers have integrated several additional, practical tools within its small footprint. This makes it a versatile option for a wide range of everyday computing needs.
Key Features Included
- A fundamental image editor for quick adjustments.
- A color picker to identify specific hues.
- A color palette for managing and utilizing colors.
- Screen tools such as a magnifier for detailed views.
- A screen ruler and protractor for precise measurements.
- A whiteboard for quick annotations and sketching.
Despite its comprehensive feature set, the entire package is contained within a remarkably small 3.3 MB download. It's important to note that this software is licensed for personal, non-commercial use only.
Portability and System Compatibility
The software’s small size also lends itself to portability. It can be readily used across multiple systems by simply copying the installation folder to a portable storage device, like a USB drive.
PicPick operates discreetly in the System Tray, remaining readily available when needed. It awaits user initiation to perform its various functions.
Currently, PicPick is compatible with all Windows versions up to and including Windows 7.
Screen Capture Capabilities of PicPick
While PicPick may not quite reach the functionality of tools like SnagIt or Jing, its screen capturing features are remarkably effective. Accessing the options is easily done by right-clicking the icon in the System Tray.

PicPick offers a diverse range of capture methods, from capturing the entire screen to making selections with freehand drawing. A vital feature for any screen capture utility is the ability to capture scrolling content, such as webpages or windows that extend beyond the visible area. PicPick handles this requirement with proficiency.

Web professionals frequently need to capture screenshots of a defined size. PicPick simplifies this process with its Fixed Region option. This allows users to specify the desired width and height, then position the capture area accordingly. This is particularly useful for creating thumbnails quickly.

The Freehand Screen Capture function is designed for less common scenarios where capturing an irregularly shaped area is necessary. Regardless of the chosen capture method, a convenient feature is the ability to take multiple screenshots in succession.
Captured screens can be automatically saved to a designated location. Furthermore, these captures can be directly processed for further editing or use.
Essential Image Editing Capabilities
Upon taking a screen capture, the image is automatically launched within the integrated image editor. While it shouldn't be compared to professional software like Photoshop or Paint.net, this built-in editor facilitates straightforward image manipulation tasks.
The PicPick Image Editor features a tabbed interface, streamlining the management of multiple images and editing processes.
Key Features and Functionality
One notable function is the ability to insert text directly onto the image. This edited image can then be seamlessly transferred to applications such as MS Word, MS Excel, or MS PowerPoint, as well as any other external program.
This allows for quick annotation and inclusion of visuals in documents and presentations. The editor provides a convenient workflow for basic image adjustments and sharing.
It’s designed for simple, immediate edits rather than complex graphic design work.
Sharing, Storing, and Transferring Images
Beyond functioning as a standalone application, PicPick facilitates direct image uploads to popular social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, utilizing TwitPic for the latter.
Furthermore, the software supports direct File Transfer Protocol (FTP) uploads, conveniently initiated from the system tray.
Common Usage
However, a primary function for many users, including myself, is the ability to quickly dispatch captured images as attachments to Outlook email messages.
This streamlined process makes PicPick a versatile tool for both immediate sharing and archival purposes.
The application offers multiple avenues for image distribution, catering to diverse user needs and preferences.
A Collection of Supplementary Tools
For those engaged in graphic design, whether casually or professionally, applications such as a Color Picker and a Color Palette prove valuable in the selection of appropriate colors.
Precise pixel measurements can be obtained using graphic measurement utilities like a Pixel Ruler, Protractor, and Cross-hair.
Essential Graphic Utilities
The Magnifier function allows for detailed image inspection through zooming capabilities.
These tools enhance the workflow for designers by providing functionalities beyond standard image editing.
Having access to these features streamlines the design process and ensures accuracy in visual projects.
They are particularly useful when specific color codes or dimensions are required for a design.
Ultimately, these supplementary tools contribute to a more refined and professional final product.
Leveraging the Whiteboard Feature
Following the capture of several images, consider utilizing the Whiteboard tool for a spontaneous presentation.
This functionality allows for the display of a photograph in full-screen mode, enabling annotation with whiteboard markers to enhance a brief discussion.
Utilizing the Whiteboard for Presentations
The whiteboard tool provides a dynamic way to present visual information.
It’s possible to augment a full-screen image with handwritten notes and highlights, effectively supporting a verbal explanation.
The resulting annotated image can then be preserved in the same manner as a standard screen capture.
Key Benefit: The whiteboard feature combines image display with real-time annotation, offering a versatile presentation method.
This approach is ideal for quick explanations and impromptu demonstrations.
Customizing PicPick: Program Options
The Program Options within PicPick allow for detailed adjustments to the application's behavior. These settings enable users to tailor the screen capture experience to their specific needs.
Key Configuration Features
Several notable features are included within the options panel. These contribute to a more versatile and efficient workflow.
- Dual monitor support is integrated, facilitating captures across multiple displays.
- A screen capture delay can be established, which is particularly useful when utilizing the auto-scroll functionality.
- Users have the flexibility to select preferred image formats for saving captured screenshots.
- A comprehensive set of hot keys can be configured, or reset to defaults mirroring those found in FastStone or HyperSnap.
- The application offers support for a variety of languages, enhancing accessibility.
It’s important to note that PicPick is offered as a completely free utility. As such, it presents a streamlined feature set.
If extensive, advanced screenshot capabilities aren't required, PicPick represents a valuable and effective solution. Does this application seem like a good fit for your requirements?
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