Best way to communicate with new client as a freelance graphic designer?

What's the best way to communicate the vision I have for an app icon to a freelance designer?

• I have the font, name, & colors I want. I want the logo & iOS app icon made by a freelance designer. Trying to get those little extras added in, like lighting effects, crisp edges, that 3D look, etc. is what I'm concerned about.    I don't want to have to pay for 4-5 logos or icons before we get on the same page.    Thanks in advance for any help.

• Answer:

  I've been in both shoes I'm adding to 's excellent short answer. Give them good information on your audience, competitors, your taste and the kind of character you want associated with your brand. Give them a pile of other icons you liked, not necessarily of apps related to your industry and not just one or two cause they might relate to the wrong thing while providing many lets them understand the pattern in your taste. Understand that they have to do their own research, make it easier for them (and this is how your touch blends in) by pointing fingers and/or providing structured information they can deduct from.