How to extract text from an image

Images are no longer limited to real-life moments captured on phones. Screenshots, infographics, and presentation boards contain key insights that deserve to be searchable and editable. AI Image Describer is purpose-built for this workflow. In a few steps you can upload a screenshot, describe it with GPT-4o Vision, and copy the output into your CMS.

Step-by-step text extraction

1. Find a trusted image to text converter

A simple Google search for "convert image to text" returns multiple tools. This guide uses AI Image Describer, which mirrors imagetotext.io but layers on GPT-4o Vision, Supabase logging, and Creem billing.

2. Upload your image

Use any of the available methods:

• Drag and drop files
• Browse from storage
• Paste an image URL
• Copy/paste directly from your clipboard

3. Submit and extract

After upload, click “Generate description.” The tool converts your image to base64 in the browser, sends it to GPT-4o, and returns a long description, alt text, and caption. Because this is an online service, you may occasionally see a verification prompt; confirm it to continue.

4. Collect the results

Your text appears inside a card with “Copy” buttons for each field. You can copy the entire block or download it for later use.

Alternative OCR methods

If you prefer desktop tools, consider:

• Microsoft OneNote: insert an image, right-click, and select “Copy Text from Picture.”
• Google Docs: upload your image to Google Drive, open with Google Docs, and the text appears below the image.

These methods are handy when you’re working offline or inside productivity suites.

Uses of text extraction

• Business archives: convert printed paperwork into digital records for compliance.
• Data entry: automate the process of copying values from receipts or invoices.
• Education: students digitize notes, textbooks, and lecture slides for search and screen-reader accessibility.
• Media: journalists pull quotes from printed newspapers or screenshots for quick sharing.

FAQs

Are other methods available? Yes—desktop OCR apps, mobile apps, or platforms like Google Docs and OneNote.

Is online OCR risky? Trusted services do not store your images. AI Image Describer processes everything locally before sending a minimalist request to GPT-4o.

Can I extract text on mobile? Absolutely. Use your phone’s browser to access the tool, upload a photo, and copy the output.

Text extraction is a simple skill that makes imagery more valuable. Once you master the workflow, every screenshot or poster becomes editable and ready for SEO, accessibility, or analytics.