Google image search

Did you know that you can search the internet using a photo? Today's blog looks at this very useful feature.

Why use an image search? I hear you ask. Well, have you ever seen something but not known what it was or how to describe it, or perhaps wanted to know more about it? Google image search solves that problem. All you need is a picture of the item. 

Some possible search ideas include:

• Seeing if anyone else is using your profile photos (scammers like to do this)
• Identifying a plant or flower
• Finding out more about a building or statue or item of historical importance
• Find out how much a piece of furniture (or other item) is worth
• Identifying the language used in a piece of text, particularly for alphabets that are not your own.
• Finding out more about a painting sculpture or artwork. 
• If you are an artist, you can check that no one is using your work without permission

Using the image search

• Go to Google images 

You'll see an icon for a camera in the search bar

• Click on the camera. 
• If you are using your phone, you'll be prompted to either take a picture, or upload a picture from your phone. 
• If you're using your computer, you'll have the option to 'drop and drag';  'upload' an image or insert the image web address (url). Click on search, and Google will look for images that are similar to the one you used. 

You can find more detailed instructions on Google's Help pages. 

I tend to use the Google option, as I find it easiest, but if you don't want to use Google's image search, this blog looks at alternatives.