Screenshots Made Easy

**Ariovistus Maximus** · August 17, 2009, 12:39 PM

Hey guys! I thought it would be helpful to give some advice as to how to get screenshots for your AAR, since a lot of newer writers don't seem to know how exactly to go about it.

This is just technical advice, but it'd be great if someone would include some advice for what makes a good, appealing screenshot.

First of all, you needn't buy any special software, such as FRAPS. Naturally, you can if you like, but I've never used it myself and I've managed just fine.

1. Take your screenshot.

So you find the perfect screenshot. All you need to do is hit "print screen." I would do it 2-3 times, personally, to make sure you get what you need.

Now, when you hit print screen, the screenshot is saved in your M2TW folder in a file marked "tgas."
If you installed in the default location, it is:

C:/ > Program Files > SEGA > Medieval 2 > tgas.

The key is the file marked "tgas." This is where ALL of your screenshots can be found. Now, you have a little problem. The screenshots are saved as (take a guess) .tga files, which you can't use.

2. Convert the screenshots to JPEG format.

Now, to make use of your screenshots, you have to convert them to JPEGs.

So go to this website and download IRFANVIEW. It's a great little program, completely FREE with no obligations, pestering you about updates, or the like.

Download and install irfanview. You will use irfanview to convert the .TGAs to JPEGs. There are directions included with the program, and there are also directions on the website.

You can also use such programs as Adobe Photoshop, Print Shop, etc. but of course those aren't free.

3. Upload your screenshots.

OK, now your files are converted and you're ready to put them on the internet.

Now what you need to do is create an account at www.imageshack.com or www.photobucket.com.

I've used both, and personally I find photobucket to be much better. Imageshack is rather buggy to be honest.

Once your account is created, the site you have chosen can explain how to upload your files. Then, you will upload your screenshots to that site. Now that the pictures are online, they are ready to be posted on the forum!

Post your screenshots.

Copy the URL provided by the image hosting site, paste it into your post, and you've done it! The screenshot is part of your AAR.

**Amaz** · August 18, 2009, 01:15 AM

+rep... nice guide

**Junius** · August 18, 2009, 02:39 PM

We are working on something similar for the Critic's Quill, but this is a nice little guide. You've covered the basics very well and thoroughly. Good job.