Red emitting brilliant YVO4:Eu phosphor was synthesized by a modified combustion synthesis method. The combustion reaction was induced in crucibles with different depths to study the impact of synthesis parameters on the luminescence and nanostructure characteristics of the prepared phosphors. The crucible height affected the photoluminescence properties and morphology of the produced phosphors. The long cylinder shape crucible produces larger nanoparticles (NPs) in comparison with short height crucible. In addition, the luminescence properties of phosphor NPs synthesized in longer crucible were improved significantly.