For the crochet method, yes, the shorter your dreadlocks are the more they’ll stick up. With medium length you’ll notice a “lift”, and for longer dreadlocks and extensions you shouldn’t experience any visibly noticeable lift.
The stiff look is only temporary however, if you wear a hat for the first day or wrap them for sleeping they will maintain the way they lay under your hat or wrap. Also, after a wash or two they will start to relax.