How can I view stuff from my memory card when plugged to my computer with a USB cable

[Identified2010]

I have a Samsung galaxy s4 mini and I'm trying to transfer/ view my SD card from my phone onto my computer with a USB cable,

there is an icon on my screen that says SAMSUNG ANDROID - CARD but shows no content, there are pictures and videos on there I can see it on my phone, there must be a way of viewing photos this way, I'm very frustrated please help (I swear phones are never simple anymore)

Oh I managed to copy my photos saved to my phone tho it was complicated.

What do I have to do to see my memory card without removing it be a use that buggers it up annoyingly

I would love for someone to give me directions thanks

 

[Someone Somewhere]

Is the phone on and unlocked? It won't let you get to the data if the phone is locked.