Big fan of this site, longtime lurker.

I am just amazed at the work that exists on this site. I was always curious about fantasy cartography but I never was savvy at drawing on paper or on graphic programs. I am really curious to know what got a lot of you interested in making maps?

I finally decided to join because I want to learn from the pros. I've mostly lurked in the tutorial section. I do want to learn how to create some very basic maps. I am learning with GIMP at the moment

Do you guys recommend GIMP or Photoshop for a beginner? Or does it not matter?

Whatever tips you guys have, I would be most appreciative of it