In general, beginners in photography tend to put a lot of elements into their photos, so a lot of empty space around the subject. Likewise when shooting. Many people use a lens with a focal length of about 50mm, it is too far from the model, making the subject being photographed appear small in the image display. Doubts in approaching the subject to the nearest distance you must eliminate.
So, if you want to use a lens with a shorter focal length, it is better if you shoot the subject closer. Note the following two examples: first, shoot with a 50mm lens (on a full frame camera) and second, get close to the subject with a telephoto lens at the 120mm setting. Notice which portrait is closer? In which photo do you feel more focused and closer to the model?