Denotation of the image stands for its literal meaning, it is what we see on the photograph, connotation on the other hand attaches a further meaning, going beyond what is seen.
First and foremost we see a couple of boys, obviously just after a football game or on their way to a game (judging by their clean outfits, it could be the latter), or perhaps the different kits tells us that they support different teams, they are walking hand in hand, in an obvious friendship. They are surrounded by derelict houses, the landscape in the photo seems very neglected.
Going beyond the obvious and concentrating on the connotations of the image, I can't help to wonder if the innocent friendship in this very basic environment will soon be over or maybe just improved? Will the derelict houses be pulled down and a better, newer place will be built, perhaps the youngsters are marching together towards an improved future or marching away from a place where innocent play is still allowed? The boys could also represent the two opposites coming together, two rivals ending up in a friendship?
The second part of this exercise involved reading the actual article the image was produced for. 'Glasgow tenants vote to sell off council housing' - in 2002 article from The Independent we learn that 83,000 council homes were transferred to a private housing association following a public vote. The predicted result was to be a major improvement in the living conditions in some of the worst areas of Glasgow. On the other hand, the opponents of the scheme were worried about the high rises in rent and further financial complications following the transfer.
My initial review of the photograph was therefore correct, with the exception of the final paragraph commenting on the enemies coming together.
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