>any other suggestions for speeding up download of images is greatly
appreciated.


Consider using small "thumbnail" photos which allow the more detailed image
to be displayed when you click the thumbnail.
This allows those who wish to browse a fast load while making full detail
accessible to those who want it.

If web page size allows, consider having pages with hi and low resolution
images - provide a link which allows users to access higher resolution
images as of right if they wish to.

Consider having NO live images on browsed pages with with all images
accessed by clicking a text link - faaaaast for those who are just
browsing..



RM