In what circumstances can you use the <cite> element in HTML..,?

Answer 1

According to the W3C specification, a reference to a creative work can contain the name of the work’s author.

Answer 2

It defines the title of creative work, books, paintings, television programs, websites, etc.

Answer 3

I would use cite if I am displaying a image of painting or sculpture made by some, or/and à movie, Song,etc

As per the doc 'cite' define the title of work.

If you have a website where user upload their work

You can use it in the title/descriotion of the pictures like:

<p><cite>the title of the work</cite> by name of author</p>

You can substitute p tag with any appropriate tag like heading tag