1. A method for lossless coding of image and video media, comprising: splitting input image data into block portions; for an individual one of the block portions, selecting one of multiple available differential pulse code modulation (DPCM) prediction modes to apply to the block portion based upon which DPCM prediction mode, out of the available DPCM prediction modes, yields a closer to optimal two-sided, zero-biased symbol distribution of a run-length, Golomb-Rice (RLGR) entropy encoder than any other of the available DPCM prediction modes; applying the selected DPCM prediction mode to the block portion; entropy encoding DPCM residuals of the block portion using run-length Golomb-Rice encoding; and outputting the encoded DPCM residuals of the block portion in a bitstream.