A method is provided for encoding an image or a sequence of images generating a data flow comprising data representing a group of pixels in one of said images, said method including: calculating a predetermined number of predictors in relation to said group of pixels, and selecting an optimal predictor in accordance with a predetermined selection criterion. Between the calculation and selection steps, a step of eliminating at least one predictor with a calculated predetermined number is performed, which comprises, for at least two ith (Pi) and jth (Pj) predictors, of: calculating the difference between said jth and ith predictors, applying a transform to said calculated difference, performing a quantification operation on the result of the applied transform, comparing the result of said quantification operation with a predetermined value, eliminating the jth predictor if the result of said quantification operation is less than or equal to said predetermined value.