As a general rule it's advised to start at the highest recommended VTF setting (especially with a new cart or stylus), then try reducing VTF incrementally from there. You won't be able to get a final setting until the cart is broken in or the suspension has settled down.
The idea here is to prevent what's called minor mistracking. That's when the stylus loses contact with the groove momentarily, but does not skip or repeat. It can damage the record.
Azimuth refers to having the cart parallel to the record surface when viewed from the front. A Geo Disc is generally used for alignment. With a record player every adjustment effects all the others so it might be advisable to consider a particular situation rather than a general rule. Different arms will have different mass, bearing friction, etc. and results will vary. Don't forget to defeat antiskate when adjusting VTF.
fleib