I agree, to a small extent. Especially about multiple pictures since I have dial up, but once they're in your cache they load pretty quick.
You can cut off the option to view signatures if they bother you though, click User CP at the top left of your screen, click Edit Options under Settings & Options, and scroll down until you see Thread Display Options. Uncheck View Signatures, and make sure to hit Save Changes at the bottom. You can also cut off any pictures from showing, and avatars.