you wanna start by checking out the tutorials. one very important thing to learn about is layers which is how you can move each picture independantly and make them fade into each other. you make the banners rectangular by opening a new image (try 500 by 150, its pretty easy) and pasting pictures into it. it can be confusing and frustrating at first, but dont give up, because you'll get better with practice. but mostly read tutorials and learn how to use the tools. if you have any other specific questions, feel free to PM, IM, or email me.