> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.pixelate.tomblack.ca/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Capture your first sprite

> Capture a first Pixelate sprite sheet in a few focused steps.

This is the shortest path to a first Pixelate capture.

## Common setup

<Steps>
  <Step title="Create a capture manager">
    In the Hierarchy, right-click and select **Pixelate > Pixelate Capture Manager**. Select the new **Pixelate Capture Manager** GameObject.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Assign the target">
    Drag the GameObject you want to capture into **Target**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Assign the camera">
    In **Camera**, assign the camera that frames the target. Use an orthographic camera for predictable sprite output.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Set the output size">
    In **Camera**, set **Cell Size**. Start with `64 x 64`.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Preview the result">
    Use **Preview** to check framing. Adjust the camera or Cell Size until the target fits.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review profile settings">
    Leave the local profile defaults for your first capture. Save a `PixelateProfile` later when you want to reuse palette or normal-map settings.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose an export folder">
    In **Output**, choose a folder under `Assets/`.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Choose a capture type

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Capture one image" icon="image" href="/image-capture">
    Use this path for props, icons, portraits, items, or any object that needs one sprite.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Capture an animation" icon="film" href="/animation">
    Use this path for walk cycles, attacks, idle loops, or any object that needs multiple frames.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## After capture

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Set up sprite animations" icon="film" href="/guides/sprite-animation-setup">
    Turn sliced Pixelate sprite sheets into Unity animation clips.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Use 2D lights in URP" icon="lightbulb" href="/guides/using-with-urp">
    Use generated normal maps with Sprite-Lit materials and Light 2D.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>