As someone who use to ref a lot, here is what I would say.
The best refs start off strict and then relax as the game goes. This allows the players to know that it is not going to be tolerated. After they know this, many will stop committing the silly fouls. On the other hand, it is much more difficult to start loose and get tight. Emotions and hormones get going and can't be controlled. I would much rather have an official start tight and loosen up. And they must be consistant, that way a coach can adjust the way their team is playing.
