Creating a banner and some other things...

First off, I would like to create a banner (who doesn't) for my website, URL Some other people that were kind enough did some for me but I'd like to make my own. Collaging two or three pictures of video game characters with a nice stylish text (I've already created this ) would suffice for me. I do have the problem of not knowing how to easily bring a picture to the same layer as another one (I have to copy, paste, magic wand, and move just to do so), is there any other way? Also, is it best to leave empty space on the banner and not have it very crowded at all?

Hmm, i dont think there are any other tools, not sure, magic wand is very awesome, also, its good to have your banner spacious but not to blank other wise it becomes boring etc etcm.