Very late possible answer The magnet at the base of the camera is the release magnet. When you wind the camera the release magnet closes, when you press shutter release the magnet releases allow shutter to time out. Check Battery if camera does not release. 6volt PX-28 silver oxide was the original battery when AE-1 was introduced. Alkaline equivalent is ok but will not last as long. Sand and water are not friends of electronic cameras.