1. Method for encoding an input image using a wavelet transform to produce a wavelet tree having a plurality of nodes organized in a parent-child relationship, said method comprising the steps of: (a) generating a first wavelet tree for the input image, said first wavelet tree is an unbalanced wavelet tree having a plurality of coefficients, where each of said plurality of coefficients corresponds to a node of said first wavelet tree; (b) mapping said first wavelet tree onto a second wavelet tree, where said second wavelet tree is a balanced wavelet tree having a coefficient frame that is different from a coefficient frame of said first wavelet tree; and (c) coding said plurality of coefficients of said second wavelet tree.