So kind of you to mention me in reference to the lighting situation.  Just to touch upon that indoor render, there are 2 possible solutions to get a more realistic image.  First, consider the light source(s) and what you want to convey in terms of set illumination.  There is definitely a strong light source situated above, however, it appears too bright and overpowering.  It would have been better if the scene was lit with different off-camera light sources to add some definition to the room and the model.  A smaller light source above with inverse square for light falloff; off-camera lights at chest level to simulate ambient illumination from other rooms or table lamps.  Anything to add interest to the scene painted with lights and shadows.  The best example is to observe your own physical environment and observe how lights cast shadows and shapes.

Second, try to tune the specularity down; the only times you have glistening skin is when you are wet or smeared with oil.  A specular map can help if it is not too contrasty and needs to be corrected with grayscale filtering.  Again, the best example is examining your own skin and observing how it responds to average lighting conditions.  You will find that you are not as reflective as seen in some of those renders.  

Whenever I look through the gallery, I find some images that just do not look right for some reason.  And if it doesn't look right then something is definitely wrong with the setup.