An electronic camera shutter having a single spring that biases an armature lever in a direction for applying an electromagnet armature supported thereon against the electromagnet until the electromagnet, which is a part of an exposure time control circuit, is energized so that the armature is attracted. This same spring cooperates with a holding lever biasing it in a direction for engaging with the armature lever and driving it in a direction for separating the armature from the electromagnet to initiate closing of the shutter upon de-energization of the electromagnet at the end of the exposure time period controlled by the exposure time control circuit. A release lever for taking exposures has a rest position in which it holds the holding lever against the action of the spring upon actuation of the release lever the holding lever is released but the exposure time control circuit is closed by actuation of the release lever so that the electromagnet is energized and the armature is held in an attracted condition. This precludes driving of the armature lever by the holding lever although the holding lever has been released by the release lever. Upon completion of the exposure time the armature is released and the single spring drives the holding lever which separates the armature from the electromagnet and initiates closing of the shutter with the armature lever. The shutter has a safety device in that the release lever is provided with a lateral notch into which a projection on the holding lever is insertable to precule complete actuation of the release lever to preclude taking of an exposure in the event that the electromagnet is not completely energized and in which case the holding lever is immediately released when the release lever is actuated.