The present embodiments relate generally to managing power in an ultrasound imaging machine. The ultrasound imaging machine may generate ultrasound images while operating in a first imaging mode that consumes power at a first level. The ultrasound imaging machine may determine whether the generated ultrasound images are for viewing. If generated ultrasound images are not for viewing, the ultrasound imaging machine may change to a second imaging mode that consumes power at a second level less than the first level. If ultrasound images generated while operating in the second imaging mode are not for viewing, the ultrasound imaging machine may change to a freeze mode that consumes power at a third level less than the second level.