Why are all the screenshots empty, although my apps are all visible and open on MacOS?

Last updated: September 18, 2025

If Caesr is taking screenshots but they appear completely black or empty, even though you can see your apps and desktop normally, this is a screen capture permission issue on macOS.

What's Happening?

macOS has strict privacy controls that prevent applications from capturing your screen without explicit permission. When Caesr doesn't have the proper screen recording permission, it can still attempt to take screenshots, but the system blocks the actual screen content, resulting in empty or black images.

How to Fix It

Grant Screen Recording Permission:

  1. Open System Preferences/Settings

    • Click the Apple menu → System Preferences (macOS 12 and earlier) or System Settings (macOS 13+)

  2. Navigate to Privacy & Security

    • Look for "Security & Privacy" or "Privacy & Security"

  3. Find Screen Recording

    • In the left sidebar, click on "Screen Recording"

  4. Grant Permission to Caesr

    • Click the lock icon and enter your password to make changes

    • Look for "Caesr" in the list of applications

    • Check the box next to Caesr to enable screen recording

    • If Caesr isn't in the list, click the "+" button to add it

  5. Restart Caesr

    • Quit the Caesr application completely

    • Relaunch Caesr from your Applications folder

Verification

After granting permission and restarting:

  1. Ask Caesr to take a screenshot

  2. The screenshot should now show your actual screen content

  3. You should see your desktop, apps, and any open windows

Still Having Issues?

If screenshots are still empty after following these steps:

  • Double-check the permission - Make sure Caesr is actually checked in Screen Recording settings

  • Try a full restart - Sometimes macOS requires a complete system restart for permissions to take effect

  • Check for multiple Caesr entries - You might have multiple versions installed; ensure you're enabling the correct one

  • Run Caesr as administrator - Try launching Caesr with elevated privileges

Important Notes

  • This is required every time you install or update Caesr

  • Other privacy permissions may also be needed (like Accessibility) for full functionality

  • Corporate Macs may have additional restrictions that prevent granting these permissions

Screen recording permission is essential for Caesr to function properly on macOS. Once granted, your agent will be able to see and interact with your screen as expected.