Two recent surveys have concluded that 2010 was a breakout year for amateur photography and videography.

According to a PMA Marketing Research report called "The Rise of the Amateur," increased access to camera equipment over the past year has led to a surge in advanced amateur photographers.

Out of those surveyed, PMA reported that:

• More than 80 percent of these users take photos weekly.
• 15 percent take photos daily.
• Two-thirds have spent more than $500 on equipment in the past year.
• Three-quarters visit online photography communities at least several times a week.

Also a popular activity this year: videography. InfoTrends released its "2010 Videography End-User Study," which noted that, although the industry is burgeoning, it is made up of distinct consumer segments with very different demands and needs. The survey company also remarked that the majority of videographers describe themselves as "family memory keepers," while 24 percent consider themselves "casual videographers," and the rest classify themselves as either hobbyists, advanced hobbyists or semiprofessional/professionals.

The report also revealed that video uploading and sharing capabilities were most prevalent in the 25-and-under age group.