Sorry if this a stupid question but does a self portrait count as photography like for a portfolio?

i asked my friend who did some photography on her media course and she said it doesnt count because you cant see what your taking a picture of or whether the lightings good, etc. please help me out.

You still had to set up the shot, right?

You have to concentrate on the camera, the lights, the composition, the subject, just as you normally would.

To me, thinking about paintings, self portraits, and portfolio. If Van Gogh had a portfolio don't you think he would include his self portraits? I think he would.

Yes, it counts.

YES you can do a self-portrait for photography. I just finished my college photography class and I did a self-portrait. If your camera has a self timer it's simple, just have someone help you out. Get a friend, whoever and place them where you would be posing and set up the light if its not natural lighting. When your ready get in the same position and put the self timer on. As long as your controlling everything it is totally fine. TRUST ME! :)

With some effort, you can take good self portraits. If your portfolio is designed to include self portraits, that should be fine.

If your looking for a work portfolio, to present to a potential employer, you want to get the best photos that you can, and that usually means finding a photographer with experience.

Two words "Cindy Sherman". This lady make a career out of self portrait.