For me, it isn't writing the characters so much as writing the characterization.
To explain that statement: Thus far in my fan fiction writing, I use the already-established characters; Harry, Ginny, Ron, Hermione, Snape, Dumbledor... etc. The few new characters I introduce must have complementary personalities (or opposing, in the case of the bad guys) to those characters, so I ask myself, "How would (Established Character) respond to (X character or X situation)?" If the character's interaction isn't 'true' to the characters, the 'willing suspension of disbelief' so necessary to maintaing the illusion of reality for the reader is broken, the reader is disappointed by the break from the established 'reality', and I have failed in my intention to present the characters as if J. K. Rowling herself wrote the piece.
However...
I have had success with some of my 'original' characters that I introduce to my writings, and garnered some small amount of praise for their introduction. Writing them is far easier, as they are my own creation, and thus I can do more of what "I" want with them (I.e., not having to 'match' the writing/characterization). The freedom of expression that this (along with plot) gives balances nicely to having to 'match' the established characters, and keeps me interested in writing.
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Robert Waldbauer
Writing is incredibly easy -- one just stares hard at the blank piece of paper until droplets of blood form on ones brow...
Life Instructor and History Maven by trade
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