Video editing question

[pro reel]

Hey guys, i know some of you play around with video editing. I'm going to attempt to start filming some reel service training videos that will eventually go on my website to be pay per view or membership view. My plan right now is to do them on a Utube private link where a member from my site will be able to click on the video on my site and view it.
I think that I need to have a wide view of the reel and parts I'm working on while at the same time I would need a close up shot so you can actually see the small parts and how they fit. I will have 2 cameras going and was planning on editing the 2 togeter bouncing from wide view to close up and back as needed, but I got an idea today that sounds cool but i have no idea if I can do it. What I want to know is can I do a split screen like picture in picture of the close up camera at the same time as the wide view camera? If so, I also need to know what is a good , simple to use for idiots editing program that will work with my sony handy cams. Also, what format should I shoot in? I can do HD but I don't know if i should do that or just do it in a regular format?