Quite often, coaches (even me) and instructors are asking tellers to do more; add more detail, tell us the back story; tell us how your characters got where they are; demonstrate with gestures; use your body more ... more ... more ...
But, sometimes ... less is more.
Sometimes, it is better to take away all the accoutrements; strip things down to the basics. KISS: Keep it simple, stupid. The real question is: How do you know when to do this? How do you know when more is needed or the story calls for less?
Aye, there's the rub. It's not just knowing your story (and your audience), it's knowing what your story is about. Ask yourself, "What does this story call for? What mood or sense is best? What fits? What doesn't?
Two articles come to mind regarding this subject:
A blog post I wrote back in 2012 called: Always Serve the Story.
And an article by Sean Buvala, written back in 2007 about using your Red Pen Storytelling Tool.
Sheesh! First you tell me to do more ... now you tell me to do less! How do I REALLY know which is best? The Proof is in the pudding - how does it taste - to the audience - and does it serve the story!
Note: There is no ultimate black and white. There is no "always-a-never or never-an-always". There are only "tips" and your own sensibilities. Happy crafting and storytelling!