Simple php template or high graphics ones, which one do you prefer for your emails?
I personally prefer simple php. High graphic templates are good but too much graphics can be harmful. They might end up in spam folder.
My opinion is its totally depend on the type of email list we are talking about. A list which you have built organically and people know you, can always wait up a second or two for your emails to open.
From what I have seen email template won't matter much. If the email receivers trust you can score with just a text mail.