How to Save a Scanned Image to a PDF File
By Foye Robinson
A scanner captures documents and other content optically and transfers the information to your computer as an image file. Then you can save the photograph, text or information to a location of your choice and share it with others through such venues as print media, a website or email. Scanning a document saves time, but, since the content is an image, it can be difficult to edit without an image editor. Major editing may require starting from scratch. You can convert a scanned image to a PDF file in a few steps.
Capture the Image
Step 1
Open the scanner software you use for your scanner.
Step 2
Select “File” and “Acquire” to scan the document into your computer (or follow the instructions for your scanner). The scanned document will load into the scanning program.
Step 3
Save the document by clicking on “File” and “Save.” Your document will be saved as an image.
Step 4
Make note of the location where you save the file, such as your computer desktop.
Save the Image as a PDF File
Step 1
Reopen the scanned image in your default image editing software by opening it from your desktop.
Step 2
Select “File” and “Print” to open the “Print” dialog box.
Step 3
Click on the printer name and select your PDF converter from the list of choices. Then click on “OK.”
Step 4
Save the scanned image as a PDF file in the “Save As” dialog box. The default file extension will be “PDF.” Click on “Save.”
Tips
- You can also use an online PDF converter to convert your image into a PDF file.
Writer Bio
Foye Robinson is a freelance writer and Web designer with Precision Web Crafting. She shares her love for family/relationships, fitness and Web design in her writing. Robinson holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Webster University and also writes miscellaneous articles and novels.