If it's difficult to work on the head of the boy without ruining the atmosphere, then try to work on everything else BUT the head. ;-)
Photoshop CS2.
- Shadows 10%
- Highlights 50%
- Unsharp mask 5% - radius 40pix
- Small contrast enhancement.
Nothing fancy, but it brings out the colours a bit better. Next to that, the over-exposure is less because the head is more balanced in itself and towards the surroundings. The contrast between the boy and his surroundings is what makes this picture and that's still there.
Let me know what you think!
(Yes, I know... Nikon Colours in my eyes ;-) )