Can I use my Canon A540 PowerShot as a webcam for (up close) makeup tutorials?

8gb is enough but using more will be a mess...may be

You can download a manual for your A540 at
http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/support/consumer/digital_cameras/powershot_a_series/powershot_a540#BrochuresAndManuals
To change the resolution follow the instructions on page 31.
Please rate this solution. Thanks.

From the menu, select Drive Mode (third item from the top) then one of the self-timer options.

Use a separate card reader instead of your camera...works every time.

Try changing the ISO to auto or set it lower than what you have it.

Follow the instructions in the "Changing Recording Pixels and Compression" section of the advanced guide (page 31 in my copy). If you need the manuals, you may download them from here.

If you are looking canon A540 user manual then get it from Canon Support.
If model number is different, let me know.

http://driverscollection.com/?H=PowerShot%20A540&By=Canon&SS=Windows%20XP appears to be to be one place

Some of The Canon Powershot A530 and A540 cameras are subject to an advisory recall. Seems that a small spring on the battery compartment door can short out the batteries. Suspect this of yours, in that you mention that your batteries aren't lasting long. If your camera is on the list, Canon should fix this for you for free, including free shipping both ways. This is regardless of your camera's warranty status. Please check the following link for more info:

http://camerarepair.blogspot.com/2007/12/canon-a530-a540-with-short-battery-life.html

To view the pictures on the computer, remove the card from the battery compartment and put it in a card reader connected to your computer.