Here is a look at my today screen, very simple with performance in mind.
http://s272.photobucket.com/albums/j...n/?mobile=true
I use the following programs:
dcinobar - hides the soft keys but leaves them functional.
HTC Plus - the clock and counter @ the top of my screen (does not count txt msg properly if using threadedSMS)
clauncher - responsible for all the shourtcuts you see, very customizable and small memory footprint.
vista hide battery - responsible for the battery guage you see at the top of my screen.
thats it. as for picture contacts, you could use the picture contacts today plugin but again with performance in mind I use regular speed dials.
Hope this helps.