Google Docs

How to Download Photos from Google Docs

Spencer LanoueSpencer Lanoue
Google Docs

Google Docs is a fantastic tool for collaboration, but when it comes to downloading images from a document, things can get a bit tricky. You might think, "Why can't I just right-click and save?" Well, that's not always an option. So, today, we're going to explore a few foolproof ways to download photos from Google Docs without breaking a sweat. These methods will help you extract those images with ease, whether you're working on a school project or just saving some cherished memories.

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Using Google Slides as an Intermediary

When direct downloading isn't available, sometimes you have to get a little creative. One of the most straightforward methods involves using Google Slides. It's kind of like a middleman in this process. Here's how you can do it:

  1. Open your Google Doc and select the image you want to download.
  2. Copy the image by right-clicking and selecting Copy or using Ctrl+C (Cmd+C on a Mac).
  3. Open Google Slides in a new tab.
  4. Create a new slide (or open an existing one) and paste the image using Paste or Ctrl+V (Cmd+V on a Mac).
  5. Once the image is on the slide, right-click on it and select Save to Keep. This action adds the image to Google Keep as a note.
  6. A panel will appear on the right. From here, right-click on the image again and select Save image as to download it to your computer.

This method is particularly useful because it allows you to utilize a feature from another Google service. Google Keep. To achieve your goal. It's a clever workaround that I find surprisingly effective.

Publishing the Document to the Web

Another handy trick involves publishing your Google Doc to the web. Here's how this works:

  1. In your Google Doc, go to File in the menu bar.
  2. Select Publish to the web from the dropdown menu.
  3. Click Publish and confirm your choice if prompted.
  4. Copy the URL provided and open it in a new browser tab.
  5. Right-click on the image you want to download and select Save image as.

This method is quick and doesn't require any additional tools. Keep in mind that if you're dealing with sensitive documents, you might want to unpublish the doc after downloading your images to ensure privacy.

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Using Google Keep's Note Feature

Google Keep isn't just for jotting down notes. It can also be a handy tool for extracting images. Here's how you can use it:

  1. Open your Google Doc and right-click on the image you want to download.
  2. Select Save to Keep notepad. This creates a note with the image in Google Keep.
  3. Open Google Keep by going to keep.google.com.
  4. Find the note containing your image.
  5. Right-click on the image and choose Save image as to download it to your device.

Google Keep acts as a simple storage solution, allowing you to grab images without much hassle. It's a neat little trick I often suggest to friends who find themselves stuck.

Saving as a Web Page

Here's a method that I like to call the "web page trick." It's simple and doesn't require any additional apps or tools:

  1. In your Google Doc, click File and then Download.
  2. Select Web Page (.html, zipped) from the dropdown menu.
  3. A zipped file will download to your computer. Extract this file using your preferred unzipping tool.
  4. Once extracted, open the folder, and you'll find all images used in the document in a subfolder named "images."

This method is great if you need to download multiple images simultaneously. It saves time and effort by packaging everything you need into one handy folder.

Using Third-Party Browser Extensions

Sometimes, you might want to enhance your browser's capabilities with extensions. There are several browser extensions available that can help you download images from Google Docs. Here's how you can use one:

  1. Search for a reliable extension in your browser's web store (e.g., Chrome Web Store).
  2. Install the extension and follow any setup instructions provided.
  3. Open the Google Doc containing the images you want to download.
  4. Use the extension's functionality to extract and download the images.

Always be cautious when using third-party extensions. Ensure they are from reputable sources and have good user reviews to avoid any privacy or security issues.

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Using Screenshot Tools

When all else fails, taking a screenshot can be a straightforward solution. Here's how you can do it effectively:

  1. Open your Google Doc and navigate to the image you want to save.
  2. Use your computer's built-in screenshot tool. On Windows, you can use Snipping Tool or Snip & Sketch. On a Mac, use Shift + Command + 4.
  3. Select the area around the image to capture it.
  4. Save the screenshot to your computer.

While not the most elegant solution, screenshots work in a pinch, especially for quick saves. Just make sure the resolution is acceptable for your needs.

Extracting Images with Spell

Here's where Spell comes into play. If you're often working with documents and images, Spell can save you a ton of time. Imagine having an all-in-one tool that not only helps you write and edit but also manages images effortlessly. With Spell, you can create and edit high-quality documents quickly, thanks to its AI capabilities. While Spell's main focus isn't on extracting images, it significantly speeds up the document creation process, allowing you to focus on what matters most.

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Using Google Drive to Download Images

If you're familiar with Google Drive, you can use it to download images from your Google Docs. Here's how:

  1. Open your Google Doc and right-click the image you want to download.
  2. Select Copy.
  3. Open Google Drive and create a new Google Drawing.
  4. Paste the image into the Google Drawing.
  5. Click File and select Download, then choose your preferred format (e.g., PNG, JPEG).

This method effectively uses Google Drive's capability to support different Google formats, giving you a way to download images with ease.

Final Thoughts

Downloading images from Google Docs doesn't have to be a headache. With a little creativity and the right tools, you can extract images effortlessly. Whether you choose to use Google Slides, publish to the web, or take advantage of third-party tools, there's a method to suit your needs. And while you're at it, don't forget to check out Spell - our AI-powered document editor that makes creating and editing a breeze, saving you even more time and hassle.

Spencer Lanoue

Spencer Lanoue

Spencer has been working in product and growth for the last 10 years. He's currently Head of Growth at Sugardoh. Before that he worked at Bump Boxes, Buffer, UserTesting, and a few other early-stage startups.

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