Canon PowerShot SD400 Digital Elph

Other manuals for Canon PowerShot SD400 Digital Elph

Quick Start Guide2 pages

Questions and Answers

D
Donald BlakeAug 18, 2025
How to fix a Canon PowerShot SD400 Digital Elph Digital Camera that will not turn on?
- M
  michaelbautistaAug 18, 2025
  If your Canon Digital Camera isn't turning on, here are a few things to check: * Ensure the power is on by pressing the power button. * Make sure the SD card slot/battery cover is securely closed. * Verify that the battery is fully charged. If not, insert a fully charged battery. * Clean the terminals with a clean, dry cloth to ensure good contact between the camera and battery.
S
Sarah LaneAug 20, 2025
What to do if my Canon Digital Camera will not record?
- S
  Sarah SextonAug 20, 2025
  If your Canon Digital Camera isn't recording, consider the following: * Ensure the mode switch is set to the correct recording mode ( or ). * Wait for the flash to fully charge. The indicator light will turn orange when ready. Then, press the shutter button. * If the SD card is full, insert a new one. Alternatively, download images to a computer and erase them from the SD card. * Format the SD card. If reformatting doesn't work, there may be damage to the SD card logic circuits. * Check if the SD card is write-protected and slide the write-protect tab upward to disable it.
B
Brian CampbellAug 23, 2025
What to do if Canon Digital Camera battery pack will not charge?
- D
  David MooneyAug 23, 2025
  If your Canon Digital Camera battery pack isn't charging: * Replace the battery pack with a new one if the battery pack life has been exceeded. * Ensure the battery pack is securely inserted into the battery charger. * Confirm that the battery charger plug is securely plugged into the power outlet.
J
Johnny NelsonAug 26, 2025
Why is my Canon PowerShot SD400 Digital Elph image blurred?
- J
  John ValdezAug 26, 2025
  If your Canon Digital Camera images are blurred or out of focus, here are some things to consider: * Ensure the subject is within the focal range. For normal shooting, stay at least 30 cm (1.0 ft.) from the subject. In macro mode, stay within 30 – 50 cm (1.0 – 1.6 ft.) or 3 – 50 cm (1.2 in. – 1.6 ft.) at maximum wide angle. * For distant subjects, use infinity mode. * If the subject is hard to focus on, try using focus lock or AF lock.
D
dcoxAug 28, 2025
Why is my Canon PowerShot SD400 Digital Elph image not showing on TV?
- N
  Nichole GarciaAug 28, 2025
  If your Canon Digital Camera image isn't showing on a TV monitor: * Set the video system to the appropriate setting (NTSC or PAL) for your TV. * If shooting in Stitch Assist mode, the output will not appear on a TV. Cancel the Stitch Assist mode.
C
cooperjessicaAug 31, 2025
Why are my Canon PowerShot SD400 Digital Elph Digital Camera photos too dark?
- R
  Rebecca HuffmanAug 31, 2025
  If subjects in your Canon Digital Camera photos are too dark: * Ensure there is sufficient light for shooting or set the flash to on. * If the subject is dark compared to the background, adjust the exposure compensation to a positive setting, use AE lock, or use the spot metering function. * If the subject is too far away for the flash, shoot within 3.5 m (11.5 ft.) at maximum wide angle or 2.0 m (6.6 ft.) at the telephoto end setting when using the flash. * Raise the ISO sensitivity and then shoot.
S
Stephanie GraySep 2, 2025
How to fix Canon PowerShot SD400 Digital Elph Digital Camera photos that are too bright?
- J
  Jessica MedinaSep 2, 2025
  If subjects in your Canon Digital Camera photos are too bright: * When using the flash, ensure you are at least 50 cm (1.6 ft.) from the subject. * If the subject is bright compared to the background, set the exposure compensation to a negative setting, use AE lock, or use the spot metering function.
C
Cynthia WilsonSep 4, 2025
What to do if the lens will not retract on Canon Digital Camera?
- D
  Daniel YoungSep 5, 2025
  If the lens on your Canon Digital Camera won't retract: * If the SD card slot/battery cover was opened with the power on, first close the cover and then turn the power off. * If the SD card slot/battery cover was opened while recording to the SD card, first close the cover and then turn the power off.
S
Steven CastroSep 7, 2025
Why is my Canon Digital Camera making sounds?
- M
  Mary ArroyoSep 7, 2025
  If you hear sounds coming from inside your Canon Digital Camera: * The camera's orientation mechanism may be operating due to a change in horizontal/vertical orientation. This is normal. * Be careful not to move the camera while pressing the shutter button. * Ensure that the AF-assist Beam is not obstructed by fingers or other items, as this can hamper the autofocus function.
T
Tara HallSep 9, 2025
Why do white dots appear on my Canon PowerShot SD400 Digital Elph Digital Camera image?
- H
  Heather WrightSep 9, 2025
  If white dots appear on your Canon Digital Camera image, especially when shooting at a wide angle, it is likely due to light from the flash reflecting off dust particles or insects in the air. This is a normal phenomenon for digital cameras and not a malfunction.

Summary

Flowchart and Reference Guides

Shooting with the Camera

Guide on how to shoot images with the camera.

Installing the Software

Steps for installing the camera's software.

Connecting the Camera to a Computer

Instructions for connecting the camera to a computer.

Downloading Images to a Computer

Process for transferring images from the camera to a computer.

Using the Printer and Printing

Guidance on using printers with the camera.

Read This First

Please Read

General advice and recommendations before using the camera.

Test Shots

Recommendation to take trial images before important shoots.

Warning Against Copyright Infringement

Notes on personal use and copyright law for digital cameras.

Warranty Limitations

Information regarding the camera's warranty effectiveness and claims.

Safety Precautions

Warnings

Important safety warnings related to camera operation and handling.

Storing SD cards

Precautions for storing SD memory cards safely.

Preventing Malfunctions

Avoid Strong Magnetic Fields

Guidance on avoiding magnetic fields to prevent camera issues.

Avoid Condensation Related Problems

Tips for preventing condensation issues when changing temperatures.

If Condensation Forms Inside the Camera

Actions to take if condensation is detected inside the camera.

Extended Storage

Recommendations for storing the camera for extended periods.

Components Guide

Front View

Diagram and labels for the camera's front components.

Terminal Cover

Information about the camera's terminal cover and its function.

Preparing the Camera

Charging the Battery Pack

Procedure for charging the camera battery pack.

Formatting SD Cards

Setting the Date and Time

Setting the Language

Basic Functions

Turning the Power On

Steps to turn the camera on and off, including sound options.

Using the LCD Monitor

Information Displayed on the LCD Monitor

Shooting Information (Shooting Mode)

Explanation of information displayed during shooting.

Histogram Function

Using the Viewfinder

About the Autofocus Function

Explanation of the camera's AiAF autofocus technology.

Using the Zoom

Pressing the Shutter Button

AF-assist Beam

How the AF-assist beam functions and how to turn it on/off.

Selecting Menus and Settings

Selecting Menu Settings with the FUNC.;SET Button (Shooting Mode only)

How to use the FUNC./SET button to access shooting mode menus.

FUNC. Menu

Selecting Menu Settings with the MENU Button

Menu Settings and Factory Defaults

Set up Menu

Power Saving

Settings for Auto Power Down and Display Off options.

Format

Instructions on how to format SD cards for camera use.

File No. Reset

Setting file number assignment preferences for new SD cards.

Auto Rotate

Enabling/disabling automatic image rotation based on camera orientation.

Language

My Camera Menu

Shooting

Shooting in Auto Mode

How to shoot in Auto mode where the camera handles most settings.

Reviewing an Image Right After Shooting

Changing Resolution;Compression Settings

Movies

Using the Flash

Selecting a Shooting Mode

Shooting Close-Ups; Infinity Shots

Magnified Close-Up Shooting (Digital Macro)

Using the Digital Zoom

Continuous Shooting

Postcard Date Imprint Mode

Using the Self-timer

Shooting a Movie

Shooting Panoramic Images (Stitch Assist)

Switching between Focusing Modes

Shooting with the AF Lock

Procedure for locking autofocus on a subject.

Shooting Hard-to-Focus Subjects (Focus Lock, AF Lock)

Shooting with the Focus Lock

Procedure for locking focus on a subject.

Locking the Exposure Setting (AE Lock)

Locking the Flash Exposure Setting (FE Lock)

Switching between Metering Modes

Adjusting the Exposure Compensation

Shooting in Long Shutter Mode

Adjusting the Tone (White Balance)

Setting a Custom White Balance

Changing the Photo Effect

Shooting in a My Colors Mode

Changing the Save Method for the Original Image

Shooting in the Color Accent Mode

Shooting in the Color Swap Mode

Shooting in the Custom Color Mode

Adjusting the ISO Speed

Setting the Auto Rotate Function

Resetting the File Number

About File Numbers and Folder Numbers

Playback

Displaying Images Individually

How to view recorded images one by one.

Magnifying Images

Viewing Images in Sets of Nine (Index Playback)

Switching between Sets of Nine Images

JUMP: Jumping to Images

Viewing Movies

Pausing and Resuming Play

How to pause and resume movie playback.

Operating the Movie Control Panel

Controls available for movie playback, including volume and navigation.

Editing Movies

Rotating Images in the Display

Attaching Sound Memos to Images

Playing;Erasing Sound Memos

Automated Playback (Slide Shows)

Selecting Images for Slide Shows

Adjusting the Play Time and Repeat Settings

Protecting Images

Erasing

Erasing Single Images

Procedure for deleting individual images from the camera.

Erasing All Images

Print Settings

About Printing

Overview of methods for printing images from the camera.

Setting the DPOF Print Settings

Setting the Print Style

Image Transmission Settings (DPOF Transfer Order)

Selecting Images for Transferring

Specifying settings for transferring images to a computer via DPOF.

Connecting the Camera to a Computer

Downloading via a Camera to Computer Connection

Methods for downloading images using a direct camera connection.

Computer System Requirements

Downloading Images by Direct Transfer

Connecting the Camera to the Computer to Download Images Without Installing Software

Downloading from an SD Card

How to download images by directly accessing the SD card.

Viewing Images on a TV set

How to connect the camera to a TV for viewing images.

Customizing the Camera (My Camera Settings)

Changing My Camera Settings

How to customize start-up images and sounds for the camera.

Registering My Camera Settings

List of Messages

Explanations of messages that may appear on the camera's LCD monitor.

Troubleshooting

Camera will not operate

Solutions for when the camera fails to turn on or function.

Camera will not record

Troubleshooting steps for when the camera cannot save images.

Cannot play back

Solutions for issues preventing image playback.

Lens will not retract

Troubleshooting steps for a lens that fails to retract.

Battery pack consumed quickly

Solutions for rapid battery drain issues.

Image is blurred or out of focus

Tips for resolving blurred or out-of-focus images.

Subject in recorded image is too dark

Solutions for images that appear too dark.

Subject in recorded image is too bright

Solutions for images that appear too bright.

Flash does not fire

Troubleshooting steps when the camera's flash fails to operate.

Appendix

Using an AC Adapter Kit (Sold Separately)

Instructions for using the AC adapter kit to power the camera.

Using an Externally Mounted Flash (Sold Separately)

How to attach and use an external flash unit.

Camera Care and Maintenance

Procedures for cleaning and maintaining the camera body, lens, and monitor.

Specifications

Technical specifications of the camera, including dimensions and features.

Photo Tips and Information

Helpful tips and information for improving photography.

ISO Speed

Explanation of ISO speed and its effect on image sensitivity and noise.

Advanced Technique for the Macro mode

Advanced techniques for using macro mode with zoom for creative effects.

Index

Alphabetical listing of topics and their corresponding page numbers.

Disclaimer

Legal disclaimer regarding the accuracy and use of the manual's content.

Trademark Acknowledgments

List of registered trademarks and acknowledgments for various companies.

FCC Notice

Regulatory information pertaining to FCC compliance for the digital camera.

Functions Available in Each Shooting Mode

A comprehensive chart detailing function availability across all shooting modes.

Summary

Flowchart and Reference Guides

Shooting with the Camera

Guide on how to shoot images with the camera.

Installing the Software

Steps for installing the camera's software.

Connecting the Camera to a Computer

Instructions for connecting the camera to a computer.

Downloading Images to a Computer

Process for transferring images from the camera to a computer.

Using the Printer and Printing

Guidance on using printers with the camera.

Read This First

Please Read

General advice and recommendations before using the camera.

Test Shots

Recommendation to take trial images before important shoots.

Warning Against Copyright Infringement

Notes on personal use and copyright law for digital cameras.

Warranty Limitations

Information regarding the camera's warranty effectiveness and claims.

Safety Precautions

Warnings

Important safety warnings related to camera operation and handling.

Storing SD cards

Precautions for storing SD memory cards safely.

Preventing Malfunctions

Avoid Strong Magnetic Fields

Guidance on avoiding magnetic fields to prevent camera issues.

Avoid Condensation Related Problems

Tips for preventing condensation issues when changing temperatures.

If Condensation Forms Inside the Camera

Actions to take if condensation is detected inside the camera.

Extended Storage

Recommendations for storing the camera for extended periods.

Components Guide

Front View

Diagram and labels for the camera's front components.

Terminal Cover

Information about the camera's terminal cover and its function.

Preparing the Camera

Charging the Battery Pack

Procedure for charging the camera battery pack.

Formatting SD Cards

Setting the Date and Time

Setting the Language

Basic Functions

Turning the Power On

Steps to turn the camera on and off, including sound options.

Using the LCD Monitor

Information Displayed on the LCD Monitor

Shooting Information (Shooting Mode)

Explanation of information displayed during shooting.

Histogram Function

Using the Viewfinder

About the Autofocus Function

Explanation of the camera's AiAF autofocus technology.

Using the Zoom

Pressing the Shutter Button

AF-assist Beam

How the AF-assist beam functions and how to turn it on/off.

Selecting Menus and Settings

Selecting Menu Settings with the FUNC.;SET Button (Shooting Mode only)

How to use the FUNC./SET button to access shooting mode menus.

FUNC. Menu

Selecting Menu Settings with the MENU Button

Menu Settings and Factory Defaults

Set up Menu

Power Saving

Settings for Auto Power Down and Display Off options.

Format

Instructions on how to format SD cards for camera use.

File No. Reset

Setting file number assignment preferences for new SD cards.

Auto Rotate

Enabling/disabling automatic image rotation based on camera orientation.

Language

My Camera Menu

Shooting

Shooting in Auto Mode

How to shoot in Auto mode where the camera handles most settings.

Reviewing an Image Right After Shooting

Changing Resolution;Compression Settings

Movies

Using the Flash

Selecting a Shooting Mode

Shooting Close-Ups; Infinity Shots

Magnified Close-Up Shooting (Digital Macro)

Using the Digital Zoom

Continuous Shooting

Postcard Date Imprint Mode

Using the Self-timer

Shooting a Movie

Shooting Panoramic Images (Stitch Assist)

Switching between Focusing Modes

Shooting with the AF Lock

Procedure for locking autofocus on a subject.

Shooting Hard-to-Focus Subjects (Focus Lock, AF Lock)

Shooting with the Focus Lock

Procedure for locking focus on a subject.

Locking the Exposure Setting (AE Lock)

Locking the Flash Exposure Setting (FE Lock)

Switching between Metering Modes

Adjusting the Exposure Compensation

Shooting in Long Shutter Mode

Adjusting the Tone (White Balance)

Setting a Custom White Balance

Changing the Photo Effect

Shooting in a My Colors Mode

Changing the Save Method for the Original Image

Shooting in the Color Accent Mode

Shooting in the Color Swap Mode

Shooting in the Custom Color Mode

Adjusting the ISO Speed

Setting the Auto Rotate Function

Resetting the File Number

About File Numbers and Folder Numbers

Playback

Displaying Images Individually

How to view recorded images one by one.

Magnifying Images

Viewing Images in Sets of Nine (Index Playback)

Switching between Sets of Nine Images

JUMP: Jumping to Images

Viewing Movies

Pausing and Resuming Play

How to pause and resume movie playback.

Operating the Movie Control Panel

Controls available for movie playback, including volume and navigation.

Editing Movies

Rotating Images in the Display

Attaching Sound Memos to Images

Playing;Erasing Sound Memos

Automated Playback (Slide Shows)

Selecting Images for Slide Shows

Adjusting the Play Time and Repeat Settings

Protecting Images

Erasing

Erasing Single Images

Procedure for deleting individual images from the camera.

Erasing All Images

Print Settings

About Printing

Overview of methods for printing images from the camera.

Setting the DPOF Print Settings

Setting the Print Style

Image Transmission Settings (DPOF Transfer Order)

Selecting Images for Transferring

Specifying settings for transferring images to a computer via DPOF.

Connecting the Camera to a Computer

Downloading via a Camera to Computer Connection

Methods for downloading images using a direct camera connection.

Computer System Requirements

Downloading Images by Direct Transfer

Connecting the Camera to the Computer to Download Images Without Installing Software

Downloading from an SD Card

How to download images by directly accessing the SD card.

Viewing Images on a TV set

How to connect the camera to a TV for viewing images.

Customizing the Camera (My Camera Settings)

Changing My Camera Settings

How to customize start-up images and sounds for the camera.

Registering My Camera Settings

List of Messages

Explanations of messages that may appear on the camera's LCD monitor.

Troubleshooting

Camera will not operate

Solutions for when the camera fails to turn on or function.

Camera will not record

Troubleshooting steps for when the camera cannot save images.

Cannot play back

Solutions for issues preventing image playback.

Lens will not retract

Troubleshooting steps for a lens that fails to retract.

Battery pack consumed quickly

Solutions for rapid battery drain issues.

Image is blurred or out of focus

Tips for resolving blurred or out-of-focus images.

Subject in recorded image is too dark

Solutions for images that appear too dark.

Subject in recorded image is too bright

Solutions for images that appear too bright.

Flash does not fire

Troubleshooting steps when the camera's flash fails to operate.

Appendix

Using an AC Adapter Kit (Sold Separately)

Instructions for using the AC adapter kit to power the camera.

Using an Externally Mounted Flash (Sold Separately)

How to attach and use an external flash unit.

Camera Care and Maintenance

Procedures for cleaning and maintaining the camera body, lens, and monitor.

Specifications

Technical specifications of the camera, including dimensions and features.

Photo Tips and Information

Helpful tips and information for improving photography.

ISO Speed

Explanation of ISO speed and its effect on image sensitivity and noise.

Advanced Technique for the Macro mode

Advanced techniques for using macro mode with zoom for creative effects.

Index

Alphabetical listing of topics and their corresponding page numbers.

Disclaimer

Legal disclaimer regarding the accuracy and use of the manual's content.

Trademark Acknowledgments

List of registered trademarks and acknowledgments for various companies.

FCC Notice

Regulatory information pertaining to FCC compliance for the digital camera.

Functions Available in Each Shooting Mode

A comprehensive chart detailing function availability across all shooting modes.

Canon PowerShot SD400 Digital Elph Specifications

General

Sensor Resolution	5.0 megapixels
Optical Zoom	3x
Image Processor	DIGIC II
Storage Media	SD card
Weight	130g (4.6 oz)
Resolution	2592 x 1944 pixels
Image Sensor Size	1/2.5 inch
Focal Length	5.8 - 17.4 mm (35mm equivalent: 35 - 105 mm)
Aperture	f/2.8 - f/4.9
Shutter Speed	15 - 1/1500 sec
White Balance	Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H, Custom
ISO Sensitivity	100, 200, 400
Battery Type	NB-4L Li-ion battery
LCD Screen Resolution	Approximately 118, 000 pixels
Video Resolution	640 x 480