Abstract: A stepping drive unit for cameras which is capable of stepwise driving a photographic optical system by operating a member which is placed into a reciprocating motion by means of an electromagnetic force on a plane substantially parallel with the photographic optical axis and not through a cam, whereby the transmission efficiency of a drive cam is increased. The drive is also capable of eliminating the need to employ a stepping drive in returning the photographic optical system to an initial position whereby the number of steps taken by the stepping drive is reduced, and of conducting its functions without applying any excessive impulsive force by stepwise increasing the amount of electricity charged to the electromagnetic drive member as the number of steps taken by the stepping drive increases, whereby the level of mechanical driving sounds is greatly reduced.