A sensitive photojournalist can recognize it when they see it, and photograph it with effective simplicity. Character studies demand good taste, sensitivity and a honest approach. In this respect, the photographer must be competent, dedicated and full of self-confidence, not unlike a good motion picture director. Make sure the subject dominates the picture. Avoid, or subdue, distracting and unrelated clutter in backgrounds.
Related clutter can be useful.
Subdue background clutter by using short depth of field with selective focusing. Strive for simple, natural effects. Start the sitting with a minimum of delay. Just what I wanted. This starts the ball rolling and makes the subject feel that everything is going well.