Abstract: A picture search control apparatus for use in digital video tape recorders is connected to a motor controller and between an inner decoder and an outer decoder. The apparatus comprises a mode selector which selects a reproduction mode, receives a field selection signal, controls a capstan motor in correspondence to the selected reproduction mode, and produces primary control signals necessary for delaying the picture data as well as data processor for logically combining the primary control signals supplied from the mode selector to produce a plurality of control signals, delaying the data signal supplied from the inner decoder so as to constitute a still picture in correspondence to the selected reproduction mode by the plurality of control signals, and supplying the delayed signal to the outer decoder.