Q: Access Files on Laptop via Desktop when I get home

So this is a two part question....

First part... I have a laptop I use when I am not home. And a MacPro when I am at home.

I would like to access the Laptop Files (i.e. photos) and transfer files that I need back to my MacPro Desk top when I am at home.

What is the easiest way... Do I need to still have to laptop plugged in to power? Do I have to have it open up? Logged in?

I envision working on my MacPro and going into a Finder that is connected to my Apple Laptop and copying files over that I need.

And for question 2:  -------- Going the other way....

I am on the road. I would like to put or get files from my MacPro at home.

I don't want to run programs remotely I just want to transfer file (mostly photos)

Thanks in Advance.

Please let me know if I need to be more specific

-David