[wulf]

Don't be afraid of editing. In professional portraits it is still often the difference between a good and a great result. Having said that, it is important to get the best starting point before going into the digital darkroom.

One idea that several of the shots illustrate is that a wider aperture, blurring the background, works very well for portraiture. I don't know how much that is an option with the camera in question but is worth bearing in mind.

Another suggestion (beyond the good ideas about diffused, low power flash and using a reflector) is that, although the woman may not be able to move much, you could try positioning yourself somewhere else. With the other tools as well, you might find a position that gives a better play of light on her face (and the kitten's face) and a less distracting background.

Wulf