The whole point is to prune in such a way that your pruning is not seen and the natural shapes of the tree or shrub takes on a completely natural look. Extreme pruning practices occur too commonly and are very stressful to the plants, not to mention eye appeal.
Large cuts leave the plant open to damage, be it insect, disease or mother nature.
Take your time and make a plan of attack. If you are in the middle of pruning and you get lost, step back and take a look and then step back in and prune some more. In a normal year for the piedmont you are looking at late February to early March. Prune to enhance the health, look and strength of the tree. Using pruning to reduce the height of a crape myrtle can create a maintenance nightmare.