Change default settings for template?

Hello,

I would like to know the easiest or best way to change the default settings for Zita options when creating a new post. In my case, I would like:

1) The “Disable Feature Image” option to be checked by default, and
2) Not as important, but would be nice, to have the accordion box expanded by default so that I can see the options without needing to click the button.

Thank you in advance. Even some snippet code would help!