When does diagonal composition work in photography?

Yes—diagonal composition can still work, but it’s most effective for certain subjects rather than as a general approach.

From the examples given, diagonals are useful when they help fit more of the subject into the frame or add energy to the image, such as band/performance photos or abstract subjects. In those cases, the tilted composition can feel dynamic and intentional, and the image may still read well when displayed normally or printed.

It tends to work less well for subjects with obvious orientation cues—especially horizons—because a diagonal frame can simply look wrong or accidental. That’s why it’s often better suited to scenes without strong vertical/horizontal expectations.

Presentation is also part of the decision. Diagonal compositions may be harder to show cleanly on screens, but they can work better in prints or with a designed border/frame that supports the angle.

So the strength of diagonal composition is mainly visual dynamism and sometimes more efficient framing, but it should be used selectively, when the subject and presentation method support it.