This letter describes a simple method to synthesize LaFeO3 nanocrystals by calcining an emulsion precursor. The precursors and derived oxide powders were characterized by differential thermal analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and UV-vis NIR spectroscopy. Phase pure LaFeO3 with well-crystallized particle was synthesized at 700 degrees C for 2 h in air. The average particle size determined from TEM study is 32 nm. UV-vis NIR spectrum indicates that the LaFeO3 nanocrystals prepared by this method could be a kind of photocatalytic material. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.