how do i transfer photos from my new ES onto my mac

Do you mean the iPhone SE? If so connect the iPhone with its USB cable and use either Photos, Image Capture or AirDrop them ton get them on your Mac.

If it's no the iPhone SE you're referring to please read the following user tip and restate your question/problem in detail: 

Writing an Effective Apple Support Communities Question - Apple Community  

ES?

Or you can use Icloud and do it wirelessly.

https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT204264

Sounds like you need a different cable. What model Mac do you have?