Does a picture REALLY say a thousand words?

Does a picture REALLY say a thousand words? The recent Obama "selfie" fiasco during former South Africa President Nelson Mandela's memorial service would beg to differ. Did the picture, taken by Agence France-Presse photographer, Roberto Schmidt convey what really took place at the event or was it blown out of context?

The social media world was abuzz as soon as the pictures were uploaded on various websites. Here is what some netizens had to say:

Don't undestnd why obama's selfie at mandela's funeral has become a big issue. Mandela would've been happy. No more apartheid. #ObamaSelfie
— reena bahrin (@reenakarenina) December 12, 2013

South Africans wouldn't generally find the #ObamaSelfie disrespectful. We mourn & then go to be merry-to celebrate the life that once lived
— Mich! (@iammichiewill) December 12, 2013

The #ObamaSelfie: actual thing or more manufactured outrage? @ByJohnLMicek http://t.co/9xDFACZySD
— PennLive.com (@PennLive) December 12, 2013

Michelle unmoved by Barack Obama's selfie with Danish PM, says Nelson Mandela memorial photographer http://t.co/Yhpn1Y1O0Y #ObamaSelfie
— IBTimes UK (@IBTimesUK) December 11, 2013

As comments continue to pour in, the photographer Schmidt, on Thursday released a statement on the photographs. Here is part of his explanation:

"I took these photos totally spontaneously, without thinking about what impact they might have. At the time, I thought the world leaders were simply acting like human beings, like me and you.

But photos can lie. In reality, just a few seconds earlier the first lady was herself joking with those around her, Cameron and Schmidt included. Her stern look was captured by chance."

US President

Remarks, explanation and photos. We report, you the readers decide....