You always need to maintain the composition and apply a suitable technique that will help you to create what you are trying to say. It is not necessary to have a DSLR for photography but you should be able to create an excellent frame through which you can replicate the subject properly.
a. Don't be shy to get close to your subject. Practice with people you know so that you are comfortable and also people can sense when you aren't. Always keep in mind that “Every person has his/her own story, and every picture should tell part of that story”.
b. Always look for the real expression from a subject and try to avoid all expressions which are mainly due to unavoidable consciousness of a person (subject).
c. An important element in portrait photography is knowing your subjects well enough to be able to anticipate the gesture of a subject. It's the only way you are going to be able to get pictures of a real moment.
d. The key point is - Watch people through the viewfinder and set the aperture and shutter speed in advance so you don't have to struggle with them while you get real moments to take them.
e. Try to understand nature of subject and being aware of how people usually react in particular situations. Prepare yourself for the moment when the subject gives a spontaneous response over a conversation with you.
~ Anindya Ghosh (PhD Student)
Photo credits: Anindya Ghosh (PhD Student),