There are actually a number of ways to save a picture on a Mac. Below we’ll explore how to capture an image that you really like.
The Click and Drag Method
One way is to simply click on an image you like, hold down the left mouse button and drag the image to your desktop. Then release the left mouse button over the desktop so the image saves, showing as an icon on your desktop. Then you can move the image to another folder from there by either dragging it or opening the file and then clicking File in the menu and then Selecting Move To:
Whether you are able to use this method, however, can often depend on the website. It might have security measures in place to prevent simply dragging a photo out of your browser. In that case, you can try other methods.
Taking a Screenshot
Another method is to simply take a screenshot of the image. That way, you save the image. On a Mac, you would hit Command > Shift > 4 all at once. That will change the arrow icon of your mouse to something that looks like a target. Then you can use that to draw a square over what you wish to capture the image of.
Simply put the target icon on the top left of where you want the image to begin, hold down the left mouse button and drag diagonally down. A box will outline the image. Release the mouse button and you’ll hear a camera noise. Then that image appears automatically on your desktop.
It’s important to note that certain images have copyright laws attached to them, so use this method if you’re collecting photos for personal noncommercial use. However, some imagery or uses might fall under public domain or fair use laws, or there are sources where you can get royalty-free images. Be sure to know how the law applies for use.
Saving an Image from Email
If you need to get an image out of email, in most email programs, you can do this by going into the email itself. Then you would click on the image attached to the email. That will open a preview of the image. There is usually an icon that looks like an arrow pointing into a box:
Click that icon and the image will download to your computer. It will usually download onto the browser, as in Safari, and you can then drag and drop that image onto your desktop:
Using a Save As Menu
Another method is to simply hold your control button on your keyboard. While holding down that key, click the image. A popup menu will show that allows you to select Save Image As…
A screen will pop up allowing you to name the image and select which folder you wish to save the image into.
Depending on your Mac, you may also be able to achieve the same by right clicking to access the menu with the Save Image As… option. If you are on a laptop, you might also be able to double tap the image as a right click option.
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