I think the birth of t'internet and sites like TMA/TMP have given re-newed interest in photography - these websites have both benefitted as a result.
With a high capacity memory card costing the same as 5 to 10 rolls of film an investment in a DSLR looks good value (especially if we all get pics like Cian McLiam's!).
I've also found for work presentations the wacky viewpoints you can get with a compact digicam can makke a real difference.