I have several basic page requirements that I strive to achieve. If I fail in meeting these requirements, I accept this failure as long as the page meets it's own purpose. It makes no sense to add images to a page which doesn't require them to fullfill the purpose of the page. There is no need to add links with in a page, just for the sake of adding links. Everything on your pages should have purpose to the page, not just an attempt to meet your desire of uniformity.
Pages are a complete thought.
Images, links, design and feel are just means at which to achieve the complete thought. Going over board often causes confusion and defeats the purpose of the page. Thus it is important to treat every page as an individual, but strive for basic uniformity. It makes me think of the 5000 piece jigsaw puzzle of 101 Dalmations. Individually each piece looks similar, but not exactly the same.