Can photos in messages be shared to Apple mail
Yes, there is an easier way to do this. Since it's not clear whether you're on a Mac or iPhone/iPad, I'll provide steps for doing this on both.

From a Mac:


Within your message (i.e. in the Messages app) double-click on the photo
The photo will open in a separate window
Click on the Share icon at top right of the window
Select the Mail option from the menu
This will now open a brand new email window with the photo already attached


From an iPhone/iPad


Within your message (i.e. in the Messages app) tap on the photo
The photo will enlarge
Click on the Share icon at bottom left of screen
Select the Mail option from the menu
This will now open a brand new email window with the photo already attached