Semiotics in its most basic sense is signs and symbols. Signs are found almost everywhere and we mostly walk by them daily without consciously taking notice of them. Semiotics does not just apply to physical signs, it can also apply to things such as colour, gestures, objects and poses.
For instance in the image above, just by a glance you can tell it is for the men's toilet. The identifying symbol is universally known in the western world.
Semiotics are powerful devices to include in images as they allow the viewer to break down an image and uncover its meaning. For instance in inclusion of a prop in the background could give a portrait a whole different meaning.
Further Reading:
Semiotics for Beginners : Daniel Chandler
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