You are asking this question
"Is there an easy to understand way to sync photos from an iPad to a laptop running Windows?"
You do not sync photos from the iPad to a computer - you import them to the computer. It really doesn't get an easier to understand than what is explained in this kb article.
iOS: Importing personal photos and videos from ... - Support - Apple
If you are asking about syncing photos from the computer to the iPad, that is something different. I do not have Photo Manager Pro but I do have another Wireless Transfer app and it could not be easier to use. I suspect that there is something missing from your description of what you are trying to do.
