I start at a normal (8-10 degree) approach. If the wind is strong I shallow the approach, it seems to me the steep approach with strong wind causes you to desend with almost flat pitch. I don't like to pull collective/flare to stop at the bottom of the approach. I like to be powered up and slow for the last 1/4 mile to allow the approach to terminate in a stable hover with no big power application or flare to stop the forward movment.