Good points from Matt and Hugh about low crouching position. Allows easier and faster retrieval of steep smashes... with direct central vision and taking the shuttle early in front of the body with extended arm. And any smash that's too high would likely be out . I'll have to remember these important points.
This is what i do usually : put the racquet in front of body, normal grip, relaxed arm, one of my foot slightly in front of the other one, lower my body, also telling my self to keep calm
I will look at the shuttle. I have been cheated so many times... I may take a quick glance so that I can adjust my position and racket in anticipation of certain shots, but that's about it. Go lower, square stance or racket foot slightly in front and prepare racket, usually tilt towards forehand side.
When someone hits a smash at me, all I do is look at the bird, and my body does the rest. It feels natural for me. But remember that you can look at open spaces before you hit it. Perhaps a drop shot after a smash for a better chance at attac mode.
