There's a bunch of videos on you tube, if you want to get an idea of the technique.
I haven't had lessons and just mostly have been taking myself & my skis to go play in the snow. I'm okay going uphill (well, relatively), on flats, and my downhills leave a bit to be desired. I need to learn a telemark turn.
However, I have mastered the art of avoiding hitting trees on the downhills:
Even if it's just flinging myself to the ground before impact.