Beginner - need help on flash

[Eye2Soul]

How could I have avoided this harsh flash? And is there a trick in photoshop to correct this? I've tried using the flash adjustment and adjusting curves but its not giving me the look I want.

In the future, because I'm new and still learning a lot, how would I take this shot? This was taken at dusk and overcast. I suppose I could have used the diffuser on my flash?

A point in the right direction would be awesome! thank you

[sk66]

I'm assuming you don't have the ability to use off camera flash....

You could have dialed back the flash exposure compensation about 1-2 stops.