Use the Scene Settings

• Use the built-in scene modes whenever possible. The Canon A540 has a variety of built-in scene modes including Portrait, Landscape, Night Scene, Snow, and Fireworks. The modes automatically change the settings in your camera to be optimal for that particular situation. You can access each mode by turning the dial at the top of the camera to each scene mode. The Portrait mode is designated by a picture of a face, whereas the Night Mode is designated by a picture of stars.
  
  

Use Autofocus

• Press the shutter button of the A540 down halfway to have the camera auto focus on your subject. Once your subject is in focus, depress the shutter button down the remainder of the way to take a picture.
  
  

Turn Off the Display

• Turn of the LCD screen display and use the traditional viewfinder to frame shots whenever possible to preserve battery life. The LCD screen uses a tremendous amount of battery power. Press the button on the back of the camera marked "Disp" to turn off the LCD screen, you can turn it back on again when you want to review pictures or work with the menu by pressing the same button.
  
  

Use Rechargeable Batteries

• Use rechargeable AA batteries rather than the traditional kind. The Canon A540 will go through a substantial amount of batteries during its lifetime. Rechargeable lithium ion batteries will last longer than traditional batteries and can be used over and over again, saving you a tremendous amount of money long term.
  
  

Use Macro Mode

• Use the macro mode when you're taking pictures of things close to the camera lens. The macro mode can be accessed by pressing the picture of a flower on the back of the camera. Once in macro mode the A540 can focus on things very close to the camera such as stamps, coins, and bugs.