Lead forms let you create public, shareable forms for booking mini sessions. You can also attach a contract and a payment schedule directly to the form — so a booking comes with a signature and payment, not just a scheduled time. Your account comes preloaded with a mini session template, simplified for photographers, to make the build process faster.
📚 Tips
Before you get started:
Get a refresher on lead forms
Customize the template, publish the form, then share the link
Build the lead form
From the navigation menu, select Lead capture > Lead forms
Select Create new > Mini session form
Select Edit form
Select the “Add a session” dropdown > + Create new or choose an existing session
Creating a session opens a new tab — build your session type, then return to the form and select it
Select Next, then follow the prompts over the next few screens. If you want to:
Make changes to any required or optional fields: Hover over the field, then select
Edit (pencil icon)Add more fields: Select + Add question
Require clients to sign a contract to reserve their spot: Turn on Add a contract, then select an existing contract template or + Create new
Allow clients to pay in full or across multiple payments when they book: Turn on Accept payment, then enter the total price (required)
To split the cost into multiple payments instead of collecting it all upfront, select + Add payment. You can adjust the payments, but make sure they add up to the total price.
You can have a maximum of 2 payments per schedule. If you need more, see If you need more than 2 payments.
Enter a form name. Optionally, add a thumbnail.
If you want to automatically send a confirmation email to clients when they submit the form, turn on Send confirmation email. You can also select Preview email.
Select Review form, then review the template
For text, layout, or settings changes, learn more in Create and customize a lead form
To share a lead form, learn more in Publish or deactivate a lead form. The form isn't tied to a project, so share it anywhere like your website, social media, Linktree, marketing emails, or text.
What happens next
When someone submits the form, they sign the contract and pay (if added), and the session is booked. They'll get a confirmation email (if enabled) and the session is added to their calendar.
📣 Note
A session is booked only once the form is submitted. Learn more on the lead's experience in Lead form functionality and digital product FAQs.
You'll get an email and notification when a lead submits. HoneyBook creates a project in your “Inquiry” stage with the completed form, lead information, and signed contract and payment details attached.
If you need more than 2 payments
For more payments, a fully custom contract, or other smart file content, skip the built-in option and connect a smart file instead:
Set up a smart file with a contract block (new or existing)
Add an automation that sends the smart file when the lead form is submitted
Now, every form submission triggers the automation and sends the contract automatically
Still have questions? Feel free to send us a message by selecting the Question Mark icon on any HoneyBook page. Our team is always happy to help!