This article shows you how to copy an image in digital format and paste it wherever you want using a Windows system, a Mac, an iPhone, an iPad or an Android mobile device. It should be noted that not all images on the web can be copied. Furthermore, using content owned by other people without the express permission of the owner may violate applicable copyright laws.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Windows systems
Step 1. Select the image you want to copy:
-
Digital Image:
in most Windows applications and programs you can select an image by simply clicking it with the left mouse button.
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File containing an image:
select the icon of the file related to the image you want to copy.
- In case you need to perform a multiple selection of files, you will have to hold down the Ctrl key while clicking with the mouse every single element to be included in the selection.
Step 2. Select the chosen item with the right mouse button or trackpad
In the latter case, depending on the configuration settings of the computer, you will have to touch the surface of the trackpad with two fingers at the same time or press the right part of the latter with one finger.
Step 3. Choose the Copy item or Copy image.
The digital image or its file will be temporarily copied to the system's "Clipboard" memory area.
Alternatively, simply press the hotkey combination Ctrl + C. In most applications and programs the option Copy is accessible from the menu Edit.
Step 4. Select where you want to paste the image (a document or a text field) with the right mouse button
If you've copied a file, you'll need to navigate to the folder where you want to move or archive it
Step 5. Select the Paste option
The copied image will be inserted into your document or selected field, exactly where the text cursor is.
Alternatively, press the Ctrl + V button. In most applications and programs the option Paste is accessible from the menu Edit.
Method 2 of 4: Mac
Step 1. Select the image you want to copy:
-
Digital Image:
in most Mac applications and programs you can select an image by simply clicking it with the left mouse button.
-
File containing an image:
select the icon of the file related to the image you want to copy. In case you need to perform a multiple selection of files, you will have to hold down the ⌘ key while clicking with the mouse on each single element to be included in the selection.
Step 2. Access the Edit menu located in the menu bar
Step 3. Select the Copy option
The digital image or its file will be temporarily copied to the system's "Clipboard" memory area.
Alternatively, simply press the hotkey combination ⌘ + C or select the item to copy with the right mouse or trackpad button. If you have a pointing device with only one key, you will need to press it while holding down the Control key on your keyboard and then choose the option Copy from the context menu that will appear.
Step 4. Select the place in a document or text field where you want to insert the copied image
If you've copied a file, you'll need to navigate to the folder where you want to move or archive it
Step 5. Access the Edit menu located in the menu bar
Step 6. Choose the Paste option
The selected image will be pasted in the exact place in the document or field where the text cursor is placed.
Alternatively, simply press the hotkey combination ⌘ + V or select the item to copy with the right mouse or trackpad button. If you have a pointing device with only one key, you will need to press it while holding down the Control key on your keyboard and then choose the option Paste from the context menu that will appear.
Method 3 of 4: iOS devices
Step 1. Select the image to copy
Press and hold it with your finger until you see its context menu appear.
Step 2. Tap Copy
The digital image or its file will be temporarily copied into the memory area called "Clipboard" of the device.
Step 3. Press and hold your finger at the point in the document or text field where you want to paste the chosen image
If you need to paste the selected item into an app other than the original one, start it now
Step 4. Tap the Paste item
The selected image will be pasted in the exact place in the document or field where the text cursor is placed.
Method 4 of 4: Android devices
Step 1. Select the image to copy
Press and hold it with your finger until you see its context menu appear.
Step 2. Tap Copy
The digital image or its file will be temporarily copied into the memory area called "Clipboard" of the device.
Step 3. Press and hold your finger at the point in the document or text field where you want to paste the chosen image
If you need to paste the selected item into an app other than the original one, launch it now
Step 4. Tap the Paste item
The selected image will be pasted in the exact place in the document or field where the text cursor is placed.
Advice
- Using images on the web for personal or commercial purposes without having the appropriate permissions could violate applicable copyright laws.
- Make sure you correctly mention all sources from which you have copied the digital content you have chosen to use, such as images or videos.
