Denotation & Connotation

Denotation: The literal meaning of a word, image or phrase etc., as opposed to the meanings which are merely suggested or implied.

Connotation: The meanings implied or suggested by a word, image, phrase etc., as opposed to the literal meaning.

For example, in this image:

Denotation: The picture shows a man in a large fedora hat wearing a pinstripe suit with a white tie around his neck. He has a plain expression on his face and is looking directly at the camera. He has a slight stubble.

Connotation: The large fedora hat and Pinstripe suit and tie are usually signifiers of a mobster, therefore the man is shown to be part of the mafia. The plain expression and white background are extremely plain in comparison to the clothing showing that it is the clothing that is important.