Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated October 22, 2020)
This tip applies to Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003
In other issues of ExcelTips you learn about using the Camera tool to capture dynamic pictures of different parts of your worksheet. You may have been wondering how to use the same sort of feature from within VBA. The documentation on the issue is not terribly clear, but the following macro shows the general process:
Sub DoCamera() Dim MyPrompt As String Dim MyTitle As String Dim UserRange As Range Dim OutputRange As Range Application.ScreenUpdating = True 'Prompt user for range to capture MyPrompt = "Select the range you would like to capture." MyTitle = "User Input Required" On Error Resume Next Set UserRange = Application.InputBox(Prompt:=MyPrompt, _ Title:=MyTitle, Default:=ActiveCell.Address, Type:=8) If UserRange Is Nothing Then End On Error GoTo 0 'Copy range to Clipboard as picture UserRange.CopyPicture 'Prompt user for range to paste to MyPrompt = "Select the range on which you would like to paste." MyTitle = "User Input Required" On Error Resume Next Set OutputRange = Application.InputBox(Prompt:=MyPrompt, _ Title:=MyTitle, Default:=ActiveCell.Address, Type:=8) If OutputRange Is Nothing Then End On Error GoTo 0 'Paste picture to output range OutputRange.PasteSpecial Selection.Formula = UserRange.Address End Sub
This macro prompts you to specify a range to be copied, it then copies it to the Clipboard as a picture, and prompts you for where to paste it. When pasted, the final line of the macro is the key to making the "photo" dynamic, just as is done manually with the Camera tool. The PasteSpecial command actually pastes the picture, and the pasted picture remains selected. Setting the Formula property for the selection (the picture) results in the dynamic nature of the graphic.
Note:
ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (2207) applies to Microsoft Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003. You can find a version of this tip for the ribbon interface of Excel (Excel 2007 and later) here: Using the Camera in VBA.
Program Successfully in Excel! John Walkenbach's name is synonymous with excellence in deciphering complex technical topics. With this comprehensive guide, "Mr. Spreadsheet" shows how to maximize your Excel experience using professional spreadsheet application development tips from his own personal bookshelf. Check out Excel 2013 Power Programming with VBA today!
Text boxes are handy for placing information in a container that can "float" over your worksheet. This tip explains what ...
Discover MoreDo you need to add a logo or other graphic to a bunch of worksheets? Here are a couple of short macros that can make ...
Discover MoreWant to get a graphic to just the right position on a worksheet? Sometimes the easiest way is to use the arrow keys on ...
Discover MoreFREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in ExcelTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)
Got a version of Excel that uses the menu interface (Excel 97, Excel 2000, Excel 2002, or Excel 2003)? This site is for you! If you use a later version of Excel, visit our ExcelTips site focusing on the ribbon interface.
FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in ExcelTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
Copyright © 2023 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Comments