Yes, the camera has to have the batteries for the shutter to operate. The batteries will also power the light meter function. You should have no problem getting the batteries, though the part number will likely be different. I can get batteries easily for my Minolta X700 from 1982, though the battery number has been updated. Any good battery store will have them or they can be ordered.
Minolta's are great cameras. I still use mine regularly.
You are not understanding what kind of lens is with the camera. It is some type of zoom lens due to the variable aperture specs. There is no such thing as an 80mm 3.5 - 4.5. It may be something like a 35-80mm lens.
Read and study the camera manual that was supplied in the other answer. It will tell you practically everything you need to know.
steve
Minolta's are great cameras. I still use mine regularly.
You are not understanding what kind of lens is with the camera. It is some type of zoom lens due to the variable aperture specs. There is no such thing as an 80mm 3.5 - 4.5. It may be something like a 35-80mm lens.
Read and study the camera manual that was supplied in the other answer. It will tell you practically everything you need to know.
steve
