Welcome to the First Column IT Tech Blog

HomeBlog
Tip of the Week: How to Capture an Image or Document as a PDF in Android

Tip of the Week: How to Capture an Image or Document as a PDF in Android

December 16, 2022

Google Drive comes with a pre-built feature allowing users to scan a picture or document, and save it as a PDF—at least for Android smartphones. The trick can be pulled off with just a couple of taps, making it easier than ever to import documents to your Drive. Here’s how it’s done.

Scan Your Documents to Save Them as PDFs In Drive

Smartphones are a must-have technology in the office, so you don’t need to use the bulky scanner to transport copies of your documents to a cloud service like Google Drive. All you need is your camera and your Google Drive account.

First, go to your Google Drive on your phone. You must then tap the plus sign button to start adding new files to your Drive. There will be a list of options that appears; select Scan to proceed.

This should tell your device to open up the Camera app. You’ll have to provide permissions for it to access Google Drive if you haven’t already done so. Once you’re ready, frame the document with your camera and take the picture. Just confirm that the picture is the one you wish to proceed with, then tap OK.

Google Drive will make some changes to the picture, but you can adjust these yourself by making manual edits. You can add multiple pages to your new PDF as well by using the Add Page button. Once you’re done, tap Save.

Once you are done, name your file and determine which folder you want it to go to. Now you can add any documents you want to your Google Drive without using a scanner.

What kinds of tips would you like to see us cover in the future? Be sure to contact us at (571) 470-5594 and let us know.

Previous Post
June 2, 2025
How to Make Sure Your Vendors Are as Secure as They Say
You rely on your vendors to conduct business, but these vendors are just as susceptible to cyberattacks as your business is. How can you make sure you’re working with vendors who prioritize security? That’s what we’re covering in today’s blog.
May 30, 2025
A Practical Guide to Managing Shadow IT in Your Business
Shadow IT may have a pretty cool-sounding name, but its impacts on your business are anything but. The term “shadow IT” describes any technology used in the business setting without the express knowledge and go-ahead of the IT department. While it may be common, it certainly isn’t good… despite often having the best intentions behind it.
May 28, 2025
How to Win Back Customers After IT Issues
Let's be honest, technology can sometimes cause big headaches for businesses. Maybe your main computer system crashed right when you were busiest, or you had a scary data problem. These tech troubles can frustrate you and your customers.

Have a project in mind?

Start with our free consultation. We will provide a detailed proposal and firm quote based on your specific IT support needs. All at a predictable monthly cost per seat.
Free Consultation - Sign Up Here