Sergey,

>I dunno if it would help but did you check http://www.sweetpotatosoftware.com/SPSBlog/PermaLink,guid,94b58210-456a-4fc5-84c9-39db7dcde478.aspx

I'm re-studying Craig's code. I think his grid control is faster because it deals with a smaller number of images and much smaller images. I don't see any specific technique for optimizing the refresh cycle (yet). I'll keep looking.

Thanks!
Malcolm