Hello @wanderingmoon,
That's how I started, with MS Paint. Then I learned that it's possible to do extractions (separate out different parts of a picture) in MS Paint 3D. Eventually, my son told me about GIMP, which is pretty easy to use and has some good filters in it that add a special look to a picture. Also, GIMP allows you to change the resolution (refine it).
All of these are free programs (as you probably know). I can't do the fancy stuff that others in the community can do, but that never stopped me. Making a collage is a weekly tonic :)
If you stop by LMAC Discord, @quantumg can answer any technical questions. I don't have that ability.
Tag me if you make a collage, please.
I want to learn how to use layers in gimp but am not finding any useful tips for beginners.