In an electromagnetic release for a camera a normally de-energized electromagnet is coupled with unitarally joined elongated pole pieces, and when energized, generates a magnetic flux opposing the magnetic flux of a permanent magnet. A moveable, magnetizable armature adjacent corresponding ends of the pole pieces is normally attracted by the pole pieces as a result of the flux of the permanent magnet when the electromagnet is deenergized. The permanent magnet is positioned between the pole pieces. A spring biases the armature to disengage it from the faces of the pole pieces.