In the present paper, BaWO 4 :xTm 3+ ,yPr 3+ samples were synthesized by the ultrasonic spray pyrolysis process and the effect of doping on the structural and optical properties were analyzed. All XRD patterns were indexed by the scheelitetype tetragonal structure, without the presence of secondary phases, suggesting success in the Tm 3+ and Pr 3+ doping. The FESEM images showed than particles have sphere-like morphology with the presence of holes, irregularity, and pores on their surfaces. The bandgap of the BaWO 4 :xTm 3+ ,yPr 3+ sample varied between 5.50 and 5.58 eV. The doping of Tm 3+ and Pr 3+ resulted in a reduction in the photocatalytic activity can be linked to a decrease of effective masses ratio electron/hole and an increase in the recombination rate.