How to export a still image from Quicktime?

Hi Gerret,

Thanks for contacting Apple Support Communities!

We understand that you'd like to export a still image from Quicktime.

Quicktime doesn't include a feature which would allow you to export a still image from Quicktime. If you'd like to review export options in Quicktime, you can reference this guide: Export movies to other file formats and resolutions using QuickTime Player on Mac - Apple Support

1. "In the QuickTime Player app  on your Mac, choose File > Export As, then choose an option from the Export menu.
2. This menu shows resolutions appropriate for movies based on commonly used video sizes (resolutions larger than that of your movie are dimmed). The exact resolution and data rate of an exported movie depend on the original.

• 4K: QuickTime movie using H.264 or HEVC (H.265), up to 3840 x 2160 resolution.
• 1080p: QuickTime movie using H.264 or HEVC (H.265), up to 1920 x 1080 resolution.
• 720p: QuickTime movie using H.264, up to 1280 x 720 resolution.
• 480p: QuickTime movie using H.264, up to 640 x 480 resolution.
  • Choose this option if you are exporting a movie to post online (for example, to YouTube).
  • Audio Only: An Apple MPEG 4 audio file with an AAC audio track.

1. If you chose the 4K or 1080p export resolution, click the Format pop-up menu, then do one of the following: 

• Choose Smaller File Size to export the movie in HEVC format
• Choose Greater Compatibility to export the movie in H.264 format.

1. You can preserve the transparency of a movie when exporting to a HEVC format. Choose File > Export As > 1080p, select Use HEVC checkbox, then select the Preserve Transparency checkbox. 
2. Note: The Preserve Transparency checkbox only appears for movies with an alpha channel, such as ProRes 4444.
3. Enter a name for your exported file and choose a destination.
4. Click Save."

If you use iMovie, you can export a still image via iMovie: Export an image from iMovie on Mac - Apple Support

We understand that you've also mentioned that when you take a screenshot, your Mac stops responding. The steps outlined here may help with that as well: If an app freezes or quits unexpectedly on Mac - Apple Support

We hope this helps you.

Cheers!

You can do a simple copy-and-paste to the same effect.

See: How do I export a maximum quality still from a QuickTime movie - Apple Community