Washington (CNN) The photo was striking: Four past presidents and three first ladies -- as well as current first lady Melania Trump -- standing together. The image quickly went viral -- a symbol of the strength and continuity of American democracy.

I wanted to know more about the photo so I reached out to the man who took it: Paul Morse . Morse, a New Orleans-based photographer, was game to talk about how the photo came about -- and what he thought about it when he snapped it.

Our conversation, conducted via email and lightly edited for flow, is below.

Cillizza: Let's start at the beginning. Why were you at the funeral?

Morse: I was asked by the Office of George H.W. Bush if I would be available to cover the funeral service when it was announced Mrs. Bush was seeking comfort care. I was in Dallas that week photographing events for the Bush Center so it was easy to travel to Houston in time for the service.

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