Export Frame is a feature that lets you save the frame currently displayed in the Shotcut viewer as a still image. The available formats are: PNG, BMP, JPEG, PPM, TIFF, or WebP.
Export Frame was added in Shotcut version 16.07
After moving the playhead to the desired frame, you can export the image by either:
- Using the Ctrl+Shift+E keyboard shortcut.
- Going to File > Export and choosing Frame…
In the export dialog box, Shotcut automatically generates a file name corresponding to the position of the playhead, but you can use a custom name if you prefer. This is also where you can choose the file format.
This saves the frame as it is displayed in the viewer, including any changes made with filters or from options in the Settings menu (e.g., Proxy).
Upon saving, the new file is added to the Recent panel for easy access in Shotcut.
This feature makes it easy to achieve a freeze frame effect:
- Move the Playhead to the desired frame on the timeline.
- Export the frame.
- In the Recent panel, double-click on it to copy it in the Source viewer.
- In the Timeline toolbar, click on the Paste button to insert the still image at the position of the Playhead.
It’s also convenient for creating a custom thumbnail for your web video:
- Export the frame you want to use as a thumbnail.
- In the Recent panel, double-click it to open it in the Source viewer.
- Apply a Text filter to add a title.
- Use Export > Frame again to export the new thumbnail.