If you want to make pictures load faster you will need to compress them. I use the free version of Paint Shop Pro. Go here to get a copy. I have a much older version and it is still usable. I don't know about the new version of the trial program.
Here is mine. It is mainly used to allow my family back home to see some pictures. Keep it simple. No one likes to wait around for big graphics. Keep the important stuff at the top of the page becuase few people like to take the time to even scroll the page.
I write all my own html. It's not so bad once you get the hang of it. It really doesn't take all that long to get the knack.
Good luck.