How to Save a GIF from Tumblr

By Christopher Published July 20, 2023

In the vast, virtual landscape of Tumblr, GIFs have become a vibrant medium of storytelling and self-expression. These animated images are quick, engaging, and loaded with emotions and meanings, often condensing an entire mood or narrative into a few looping frames. And once in a while, you might stumble upon a GIF so striking, so resonant, that you wish to keep it, not just in the fleeting scroll of your dashboard but somewhere more lasting. If you've found yourself in such a situation and are pondering how to save a GIF from Tumblr, you've arrived at the right place. This comprehensive guide will lead you through the process, whether you're using a computer, an Android device, or an iPhone.

Understanding the Value of GIFs

Before diving into the instructions, let's appreciate the compelling allure of GIFs that might lead someone to want to save them:

• GIFs are an innovative, playful form of communication that can encapsulate a scene, a sentiment, or a joke in an immediately recognizable way.
• They bring dynamic, visual engagement to the typically static, text-heavy web.
• GIFs also serve as snapshots of internet culture, capturing trends, memes, and viral moments.

Having a collection of your favorite GIFs can thus serve as a personal archive, a creative tool, or a reservoir of potential reactions for future online conversations.

Saving a GIF from Tumblr: A Step-by-Step Guide

Saving a GIF from Tumblr can vary depending on the device you are using. Here, we outline the steps for different platforms:

Option 1: Saving a GIF from Tumblr on a Computer

Here's how you can save a GIF from Tumblr on your desktop or laptop:

Step 1: Locate the GIF

Scroll through your Tumblr dashboard or the blog of your choice to find the GIF you want to save.

Step 2: Open the GIF in a New Tab

Right-click on the GIF and select 'Open Image in New Tab.' This will open the GIF in its own browser tab.

Step 3: Save the GIF

Once the GIF is opened in a new tab, right-click on it and select 'Save Image As…' Choose where on your computer you want to save the GIF, and click 'Save.'

Option 2: Saving a GIF from Tumblr on an Android Device

If you're browsing Tumblr on an Android phone or tablet, follow these steps:

Step 1: Locate the GIF

Find the GIF you want to save on your Tumblr dashboard or on the specific blog.

Step 2: Save the GIF

Tap and hold on the GIF. A menu will pop up. Select 'Save Image.' The GIF will be saved to your device's gallery or photo app.

Option 3: Saving a GIF from Tumblr on an iPhone

For iPhone users, the process is slightly different due to iOS's specific interface:

Step 1: Locate the GIF

Again, start by finding the GIF you want to save on Tumblr.

Step 2: Save the GIF

Tap and hold on the GIF until a menu appears. Select 'Save Image.' The GIF will be saved to your Photos app.

Conclusion

Being able to save a GIF from Tumblr allows you to curate your collection of favorite animations. Whether you use them as personal mementos, share them with friends, or deploy them in your online interactions, knowing how to save a GIF offers you a way to keep a piece of the vibrant, animated world of Tumblr with you. This guide provides the key steps for different platforms, making the process accessible for all users.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are saved GIFs stored on my device?

On most devices, saved GIFs are stored in the same location as your photos. On a computer, they're stored in the folder you selected when saving the image. On Android and iPhone devices, they're usually stored in your gallery or Photos app.

Can I save a GIF from Tumblr to my iPhone's Files app?

You cannot directly save a GIF to the Files app from Tumblr. GIFs saved from Tumblr are typically stored in the Photos app.

Why can't I save a GIF from Tumblr?

If you can't save a GIF from Tumblr, it might be due to the specific settings of the website or blog. Some sites may prevent images from being downloaded to protect copyright.

Are saved GIFs from Tumblr still animated?

Yes, when you save a GIF from Tumblr, it remains animated. However, the animation might not display in some image preview applications.

Can I share saved GIFs from Tumblr on other platforms?

Yes, once a GIF is saved to your device, you can share it on other platforms, just like any other image file. Please ensure to respect copyright and creative commons licenses when sharing.