A release button device for controlling the release of a shutter in an electromagnetic release type camera in which commercially available cable release units and electrical remote release units can be both used. An electrically conductive release button which is adapted for receiving the cable release unit is coupled to an electrically insulative central core frame. The plunger of the cable release unit can pass through an aperture formed in the release button and central core frame. An electrically conductive central core frame is slidably disposed in the aperture in the core frame. A protrusion which forms a first contact of a release switch is positioned below a lower end of the central core and a dome-shaped contact piece forming the second contact is disposed therebetween. Upon depression of the release button or a plunger of a cable release unit, the contact piece is pushed into contact with the protrusion thus closing the release switch.