Representational:
A photograph is representational as it is something we see in our environment. Although this a photograph of Hong Kong, it's visual details allow us to understand the image. It is a cityscape showing all the lights and skyscapers and the harbor at night. We are able to visualize all these things from seeing them before our environments. If you lived in a remote part of the World, it might be difficult to understand what you're seeing but it is otherwise very clear.
Abstract:
The Hong Kong Subway map is a perfect example of an abstracted image. It simplifies the image to the point where it tells you the stops and where the colored lines go. The subway map is abstracted to this point for efficiency and clarity. It really brings the map down to only the pertinent information, which is helpful for many. There is no attached meaning to the colored lines other than to tell you which line goes where.
Symbolic:
This is a photo of a sign in the Hong Kong Subway, but also a very common site throughout the rest of the city. The image is symbolic because it communicates what actions are not permitted in the subway or city for that matter. The graphic symbolism tell you not to spit because it spreads germs and disease. It's a simple, but very prominent message because it tells you that they're very serious about the spread of germs. You could see the symbolism of this sign throughout the city as many wore surgical masks to further prevent the spread of germs.
